Alzheimer’s: Caregiving After the Diagnosis

As we or our loved ones age, the homea place once filled with comfort and securitycan start to feel challenging and even unsafe. From tripping hazards to hard-to-reach storage, everyday spaces can quickly become obstacles. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe everyone deserves a home that fosters independence, safety, and peace of mind. By making senior spaces accessible and safe, were not just organizing homes; were enhancing lives and creating an environment where every step feels supported.Understanding the Importance of Accessible and Safe SpacesA well-organized and safe home isnt just convenient; its life-changing. For seniors, the right adjustments can mean the difference between feeling empowered or overwhelmed in their daily routines.Why Accessibility Matters:Promotes IndependenceEasy-to-navigate spaces allow seniors to perform daily tasks without constant assistance, fostering a sense of autonomy.Reduces Risk of InjuriesAddressing common hazards like loose rugs, poorly lit areas, or cluttered walkways significantly lowers the risk of falls and accidents.Enhances Emotional Well-BeingA safe and functional environment minimizes stress and anxiety, enabling seniors to enjoy their homes fully.Supports Family Peace of MindFamilies can feel confident knowing their loved ones are living in a space designed with care and safety in mind.Steps to Evaluate a Seniors Space:Walk through the home with fresh eyes, noting areas that could pose challenges.Discuss specific needs or concerns with the senior or their family members.Prioritize changes that address immediate safety risks while planning for future adjustments.Tips and Solutions for Creating Accessible and Safe Senior SpacesTransforming a home for safety and accessibility doesnt require drastic renovations. Thoughtful adjustments and strategic organization can make a world of difference.Practical Tips for Accessibility:Declutter WalkwaysEnsure all hallways and common areas are clear of tripping hazards. Relocate furniture to create wide, unobstructed paths.Adjust Storage LevelsPlace frequently used items on lower shelves or at countertop height to avoid unnecessary bending or reaching.Improve LightingInstall brighter bulbs, nightlights, or motion-sensor lighting in key areas like hallways, bathrooms, and staircases.Secure Rugs and CarpetsUse non-slip pads or remove loose rugs altogether to prevent slipping.Add Safety FeaturesConsider grab bars in bathrooms, non-slip mats in showers, and railings along stairs. These simple additions can greatly enhance stability and safety.Organizational Solutions:Label Storage Areas: Clear labeling makes it easier for seniors to find what they need without frustration.Use Clear Containers: Transparent bins help seniors quickly locate items while keeping things tidy.Create Dedicated Zones: Designate areas for specific activities, such as a reading corner or medication station, to streamline routines.Collaborating with Professionals: Enlisting the help of experts like A Call to Order Professional Organizers ensures that solutions are tailored to the unique needs of the senior and their home. We combine practical adjustments with compassionate care, making the process seamless and stress-free.Every senior deserves a home that feels like a sanctuarya place where they can move freely, live independently, and feel secure. By focusing on accessibility and safety, were not just organizing spaces; were fostering confidence, dignity, and peace of mind. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, were committed to supporting every step of this journey, transforming houses into homes that truly care for their residents. Lets work together to make 2025 a year of safety, comfort, and empowerment for our loved ones.

 Major pharmacy chains have closed hundreds of locations in the past year, making pharmacy services harder to find in some areas and, where such services are no longer available, creating pharmacy desserts. Without a nearby pharmacy, patients may have to travel further and navigate transportation challenges to obtain critical medications. Access to a convenient pharmacy is vital because adults are taking more prescription medications every year; up to 60% of U.S. adults reported they took at least one prescription drugs. Polypharmacy, where a patient is taking at least 5 medications, is a major risk factor for adverse health outcomes, especially for patients over the age of 65. Despite representing only 13% of the population, older patients consume approximately 30% of prescription medications and 40% of over-the-counter medications. Without access to a convenient pharmacy, patients may struggle to obtain life-saving medications, resulting in more cases of unmanaged chronic conditions, extended illness, and sometimes severe health complications. Even delayed access to medications can have serious health consequences, including higher medical costs and health complications. Often, when a service is no longer available, that is when we recognize how truly important they are.  Pharmacists do more than just dispense medications. They help patients find affordable therapies and provide preventive care services including vaccines and health screenings. Pharmacies also often offer medical supplies and over-the-counter drugs. As people take more medications, pharmacists are at the forefront of medication reconciliation, which includes reviewing all the medications a patient is taking to avoid errors such as omissions, duplications, dosing errors or drug interactions. Medication therapy management is also a vital service, offering patients education and consultation on their prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements. This helps patients better understand and manage their health. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like Healthcare Network in Collier County provide additional benefits through their integrated pharmacy services.  Healthcare Network has two on-site pharmacies: Nichols Community Health Center in Golden Gate and Marion E. Fether in Immokalee. These locations allow patients to see a provider and fill their prescriptions in the same site. If a prescription is too costly or not covered by insurance, the provider can prescribe an alternative immediately, and refills can be expedited with providers nearby. For those with complicated medical regimens or multiple medications, pharmacists can organize pills in blister packs to help a patient track what to take and when. Healthcare Networks pharmacies provide mail-order and prescription delivery services, with support available for patients who speak languages other than English. Our multilingual pharmacy staff and language interpretation services ensure clear communication, allowing us to stay closely connected with patients, offering guidance, education, and encouragement as part of their care team.  Rising medication costs are another significant issue. According to the American Hospital Association, drug prices for nearly 2,000 medications rose between 2022 and 2023 at a rate exceeding inflation, with an average increase of 15.2%. These high costs are particularly burdensome for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals, with estimates indicating that as many as 44% of patients forgo filling prescriptions due to financial constraints. As an FQHC, Healthcare Network can offer some medications at a reduced price through the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to sell medications at a lower price to FQHCs. In addition, our pharmacies accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and can help patients apply for available discounts from pharmacy assistance programs.  Providing pharmacy services in areas of Collier County that already lack primary care doctors is one of the many ways that Healthcare Network is increasing access to essential medical care for the community. About the AuthorDr. Martine Woolley leads pharmacy operations at Healthcare Network, including the Federal 340B discount program, to ensure accessible, high-quality care for patients and families. Her expertise in pharmacy management and commitment to compliance drive excellence and innovation across all services. For more information about Healthcare Networks pharmacy services, visit HealthcareSWFL.org.  By Martine Woolley, PharmD, MS, MBA,  Vice President of Pharmacy      

As we navigate through life, our belongings often tell the stories of our journeyseach item a snapshot of memories, milestones, and emotions. For seniors and their families, the process of organizing and downsizing can be a bittersweet journey, filled with both nostalgia and the promise of new beginnings. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we recognize that our mission goes beyond mere organization; its about cherishing what truly matters. In this blog, well explore the importance of thoughtful organization for seniors and their families, offering tips to make the process meaningful and stress-free.Understanding the Emotional Landscape of DownsizingMoving can be one of the most emotional experiences in a persons life, especially for seniors who have accumulated a lifetime of memories in their homes. Its essential to recognize that each item carries a story. When assisting seniors with decluttering or relocating, we encourage families to approach the process with sensitivity. Here are some tips to navigate this emotional landscape:Start with a Conversation: Before diving into the physical process, have a heartfelt discussion with your loved one. Ask them about their favorite memories associated with particular items. This not only honors their feelings but also allows for a natural segue into deciding what to keep.Create a Memory Space: Designate a small area in the new home or within a cherished space where significant mementos can be displayed. This way, clients can visualize how theyll preserve their favorite memories in their new environment.One Room at a Time: Instead of overwhelming yourself or your loved one, take it one room at a time. This approach not only makes the task more manageable but also allows for meaningful reminiscing as you go through items together.Focus on Functionality Over Volume: While its tempting to hold onto everything, focus instead on keeping items that are functional and meaningful. Prioritize essentials and items that elicit joythis can lead to a more peaceful and organized space.By approaching the process with empathy and understanding, families can foster an environment of support and love, ultimately enriching the moving experience.Practical Strategies for Efficient OrganizationOnce the emotional groundwork is laid, its time to delve into practical organization strategies. At A Call to Order, we believe that a well-organized space can lead to greater peace of mind and a more enjoyable living experience. Here are some effective tactics to transform spaces into organized havens:Sort and Categorize: Have three boxes labeled for items to keep, donate, or discard. As you sort, ask your loved one to contribute to the decision-making process. This empowers them, making the transition feel more collaborative rather than overwhelming.Optimize Storage Solutions: Maximize the use of multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans with hidden storage or beds with drawers. These solutions help minimize clutter while keeping essential items accessible and organized.Label Everything: Clear labeling can significantly reduce stress when trying to find items. Its helpful for everyone involved, especially if your senior loved one has a fluctuating memory. You can use color-coded labels for different categories, making it visually engaging.Personalize the Space: Encourage your loved one to include personal touches that reflect their personality and hobbies. Whether its family photos, artwork, or cherished collections, incorporating these elements can transform a house into a home filled with warmth.Set Realistic Goals: Break down the organizing tasks into small, achievable goals. Celebrate the little victories along the way, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment. Setting a timeline and checking off completed tasks can make the process feel less daunting.Ultimately, organizing a seniors home isnt just about tidiness; its about creating a nurturing environment that allows for comfort and joyful living. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we cherish the opportunity to serve seniors and their families, ensuring that each move or organizational project resonates with love and significance. By blending emotional connection with effective strategies, we create spaces that truly honor what matters most, leading to a more fulfilling life for seniors and their families alike.Remember, every item holds a storylets celebrate those stories together through the gift of organization!