The conversation surrounding senior care has been gaining momentum over recent years, in line with shifting global demographics and an increase in the aging population.
Thanks to advancements in healthcare, people are living longer, resulting in a larger percentage of older adults who may require assistance in their daily lives.
Amidst the diverse array of senior care services available today, adult day care remains underrated, yet holds tremendous potential.
This article will examine why adult day care is currently an underrated option, and why it is poised to become the fastest-growing service in senior care.
Despite its vast benefits, adult day care often goes unnoticed due to a combination of misconceptions and lack of awareness. It is not just a place for seniors to pass time.
These centers offer seniors the opportunity for social interaction, mental stimulation, and structured activities, which significantly improve their quality of life.
Additionally, adult day care centers provide respite for caregivers, reducing the risk of caregiver burnout—a common issue affecting the quality of care provided to seniors.
Moreover, these centers are typically more affordable than in-home care or nursing homes, providing significant financial relief for families.
Historically, the expansion of adult day care centers has been curtailed as these facilities have traditionally catered to the Medicaid population.
The quality of care at these centers is often directly linked to the quality and funding of state Medicaid programs.
In many states, Medicaid programs have been plagued with budget cuts, leading to a decrease in the funds available for services like adult day care.
The bureaucratic complexities often associated with Medicaid can create additional challenges for these centers.
This dependence on Medicaid, with its fluctuating stability and varying coverage from state to state, has undeniably hindered the proliferation of adult day care centers.
The future of adult day care looks incredibly promising, driven by the growing demand from the private pay sector and the rapidly expanding middle-income senior population.
The National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (NIC) projects the number of middle-income seniors to nearly double by 2029. This growth will result in a surge in private pay demand for adult day care services.
Middle-income seniors often possess more financial resources than the traditional Medicaid-dependent population but may find more costly care options unattainable.
Adult day care centers offer an affordable, quality solution for these seniors, providing essential care services, and enabling them to maintain their independence while giving their loved one the break they need to continue working, run errands or take a break.
Several other trends also indicate that adult day care is set to become the fastest-growing service in senior care:
1. Aging Population: The global population is aging, with a projected two billion people over the age of 60 by 2050, according to the United Nations. This growth will require an expansion in senior care services, including adult day care centers.
2. Caregiver Crunch: The increasing number of seniors correlates to a higher demand for caregivers. However, a lack of workforce in this sector is creating a ‘caregiver crunch’. Adult day care services can alleviate this strain by providing care during work hours.
3. Preference for Aging in Place: AARP reports that 90% of seniors want to stay in their homes as they age. Adult day care supports this desire, allowing seniors to maintain their independence while still receiving the care they need.
4. Increase in Chronic Conditions: With age comes an increased risk of chronic conditions like dementia or heart disease. Adult day care centers are equipped to handle such conditions, providing specialized care that can’t always be provided at home.
5. Cost Efficiency: As previously mentioned, adult day care is often more affordable than in-home care or assisted living communities, making it an attractive option for many families.
The historical constraints of adult day care are evolving into new opportunities, heralding a promising future for this service.
The increasing needs of seniors, the benefits of adult day care, and the rising demand from middle-income seniors are propelling this service towards the spotlight.
Adult day care is not just an alternate solution, but a crucial component in the continuum of senior care services.
Its time in the limelight is near, and it is poised to become the fastest-growing service in the senior care sector.
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The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.
As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.
More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.
CAREGIVING CAN BE OVERWHELMING! We offer Personalized Home Care for seniors, and we make it easy! Whether you need someone to check on them once a week, transportation to a doctors appointment, or 24/7 long term care or anything in between, we are here for you. Enjoy peace of mind while your loved one has the care that they need at home.
t's clear that caregiving can be overwhelming, but with the support of our team, you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you need occasional check-ins, assistance with transportation to appointments, or comprehensive 24/7 long-term care, we're here to provide personalized in-home care for seniors that meets your unique needs.Our goal is to help you and your loved one stay safely at home for as long as possible, knowing that they are safe, supported, and loved in familiar surroundings. We understand the challenges that come with caring for a loved one, which is why we strive to make the process easier for you.Our services encompass a wide range of needs, including Alzheimer's and dementia care, assistance at doctor appointments, laundry and light housekeeping, as well as short-term and as-needed care. Whatever level of support you require, we're here to provide compassionate care that enhances the quality of life for both you and your loved one.Don't hesitate to reach out if you're feeling overwhelmed. We're here to provide the support and assistance you need to navigate this journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Our Senior Day Care Program offers a supportive and engaging environment for seniors who may require supervision or assistance during the day. Designed to promote independence and social interaction, our program provides a variety of stimulating activities, medication reminders, transportation services, and nutritious meals.Engaging Activities: We offer a range of activities tailored to the interests and abilities of our participants. From live music performances and interactive games to social gatherings and exercise sessions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.Supportive Environment: Our experienced staff members are dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where seniors feel comfortable and valued. We prioritize the well-being and safety of our participants, ensuring they receive the care and attention they need throughout the day.Respite Care for Caregivers: We understand the importance of caregivers taking time for themselves to recharge and attend to their own needs. Our Senior Day Care Program provides caregivers with a much-needed break, allowing them to run errands, visit with friends, or simply relax while their loved one is in good hands.Convenient Solution: Whether you work full-time or simply need some time during the day to focus on other responsibilities, our program offers a convenient solution for families seeking daytime care for their loved ones. With flexible scheduling options, you can trust that your loved one will be safe and engaged while you attend to your commitments.At our Senior Day Care Program, we are committed to supporting the well-being and independence of our participants while providing peace of mind for caregivers. If you're looking for a caring and enriching environment for your loved one during the day, we're here to help.