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Last month, Secure Aging shared with our readers some facts about Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is a chronic, neurological disease that affects the nervous system and body movement; about 1 million people in the U.S. have Parkinson's disease.
This month, we share some caregiving tips for those with loved ones who have Parkinson's disease.
Get informed .If you are caring for someone newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, find out for yourself some basic facts about it what it is, how its typically treated, and symptoms. Its best to start with a trusted doctor who can fill you in and who can also recommend online sources you can review. You can also find reliable information on the National Institute on Aging website and on the Parkinson's Foundation website.
Find out what's normal and when to seek additional help. The course for Parkinson's can be different for everyone, so ask your loved ones doctor what symptoms are normal and which ones require reaching additional health expertise.
Organize any medications. Your loved one will likely have to use several types of medications. The best way to make sure they take what they need is with some good organization. The following article from Caregiver.com has some solid tips that encourage better medication organization, including keeping a list of medications used and sharing that list with other family members. The article also shares several other good tips for caring with someone who has Parkinson's.
Seek care that can improve quality of life .This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, diet management, regular exercise, and care available through other local programs geared toward those with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson Place in Sarasota is one organization that can help with Parkinson's care. Certain health providers also may be trained in programs geared toward those with Parkinson's. For instance, On the Go Therapy, profiled recently on our Secure Aging website, has staff members trained in the LSVT Big program for Parkinson's disease.
Dont forget self-care .Caregiver's are often so involved in caring for others that they neglect good care for themselves. Don't forget to get adequate sleep, eat well, and take some time for yourself every day. Watch out for signs of depression (in yourself or your loved one with Parkinson's), and reach out for help if you are overwhelmed. Secure Aging can assist with care management so caregivers can get a break.
Call Secure Aging to Find Out How We Can Help Seniors With Care Management
At Secure Aging in Bradenton, we transform the weight of the world into a sigh of relief for our senior clients and their concerned family members. The mission of Secure Aging is to protect and preserve our clients independence and dignity through careful and thoughtful financial and care management. As our clients age, it is their desire to remain independent and age with dignity. Our services protect our clients from talented con artists looking to exploit and deplete the financial resources of our vulnerable seniors. Secure Aging helps families in Manatee County and Sarasota County and in and around the communities of Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Ellenton, Holmes Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Myakka City, Palmetto, Parrish, and Sarasota.
Moving can be a significant challenge at any stage of life, but it poses unique obstacles and emotional hurdles for seniors. Adapting to a new environment, downsizing belongings, and managing the physical demands of moving often make the process stressful. Recognizing these challenges, Grand Living at Wellen Park and Master Movers have joined forces to offer specialized moving services that address the specific needs of seniors, ensuring a smooth and compassionate transition. This partnership not only simplifies the logistics of moving but also provides emotional support, helping seniors embrace this new chapter of their lives with confidence and ease.Embracing a New ChapterThe journey into a new home is often seen as a fresh start, but for many seniors, its a move filled with mixed emotions. Whether transitioning into a smaller home or moving into a senior living community, the change can be daunting. Master Movers specializes in senior relocation, providing services that go beyond mere moving tasks.Key services include:Comprehensive move managementEmotional and physical supportPersonalized planning based on individual needsThese services ensure that every senior feels understood, respected, and cared for throughout the moving process. With expert teams that are trained in the nuances of senior moving, both organizations demonstrate a deep commitment to making this significant life transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.Understanding the Unique Needs of Senior MovesSeniors face several distinct challenges when moving that go beyond the physical act of transporting items from one place to another. For many, this transition means parting with belongings that have decades of memories attached, which can be emotionally taxing. Additionally, the physical demands of packing and organizing a move can be difficult for those with limited mobility or health issues.Key challenges faced by seniors during relocation include:Emotional Stress: Leaving a long-term home filled with memories.Physical Strain: Packing, lifting, and sorting can be physically demanding.Decision Fatigue: Making numerous decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard.Adaptation Anxiety: Worry about adjusting to a new living environment.Understanding these challenges, Grand Living and Master Movers tailor their services to meet the emotional and physical needs of seniors. Their approach ensures that seniors are not overwhelmed by the process, providing support that respects their dignity and independence while making the transition smoother. With compassionate staff trained specifically in senior relocation, every step from planning to unpacking is handled with utmost care, ensuring seniors feel valued and heard throughout their moving journey.Tailored Moving Solutions for SeniorsMaster Movers has crafted a series of specialized senior moving services designed specifically to alleviate the common pains and challenges associated with senior relocations. Recognizing that each senior has unique needs and preferences, their approach is highly personalized, encompassing a full range of tailored solutions to ensure a stress-free move.Explore the core services offered:Custom Moving Plans: Every move begins with a detailed consultation to understand the specific requirements and preferences of the senior. This includes assessing the amount of belongings, special care items, and preferred timelines.Packing and Unpacking Services: Specially trained crews handle all aspects of packing and unpacking, paying close attention to the care and organization of items to ensure that everything arrives in the same condition it left. This service extends to setting up the new home according to the senior's preferences, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort right away.Storage Solutions: Understanding that downsizing can be a part of many seniors' moving processes, secure storage options are provided for items that are not immediately needed but hold sentimental or practical value.By offering these thoughtful services, Grand Living and Master Movers aim to mitigate the stress often associated with moving for seniors, turning what can be a challenging experience into an exciting new beginning that respects their past and looks forward to their future.The Grand Living Partnership with Master MoversThe strategic partnership between Grand Living and Master Movers is more than just a collaboration; it's a synergy that brings together expertise in senior living with excellence in moving services. This alliance is designed to provide a seamless and enriched moving experience for seniors, ensuring that every aspect of their relocation is handled with professionalism and empathy.Key Benefits of This Partnership:Integrated Services: By combining resources, both organizations provide a comprehensive service package that covers all facets of moving and living adjustments for seniors. This integration ensures that there is no gap between moving out of an old home and settling into a new environment.Expertise in Senior Needs: Both organizations bring a deep understanding of the challenges and needs specific to seniors, allowing them to pre-emptively address potential issues and tailor their services accordingly.Consistency in Service Quality: Clients receive the same high standard of service throughout all phases of their transition, from initial consultations and planning through to post-move adjustments and settling in.This partnership not only enhances the moving services offered but also reinforces the commitment to creating a compassionate and supportive environment that caters specifically to the lifestyle transitions of seniors. Ensuring that senior clients receive the utmost care and respect as they embark on this new chapter of their lives.Personalized Planning and SupportA successful move for seniors involves much more than transporting items; it requires careful planning and emotional support tailored to their specific needs. Grand Living and Master Movers specialize in creating a personalized moving experience that considers every detail from the senior's perspective.Personalized planning includes:Individual Consultations: Each senior receives a private consultation to discuss their specific needs, preferences, and concerns. This session helps to tailor the moving plan to suit their unique situation, ensuring that all aspects of the move are covered.Dedicated Move Managers: Seniors are assigned a dedicated move manager who serves as their point of contact throughout the moving process. This personalized approach ensures continuity and builds a trusting relationship, which can significantly reduce stress.Customized Moving Schedules: Understanding that seniors might need more time to adapt to changes, moving schedules are designed to be flexible. This allows for a gradual move, with time to adjust mentally and emotionally at every step.Specialized Packing and HandlingWhen moving seniors, attention to detail in packing and handling is crucial, not only for the safety of their possessions but also for their emotional wellbeing. Many seniors have cherished belongings that carry significant sentimental value, and the assurance that these items are handled with care is paramount. Grand Living and Master Movers provide specialized packing services tailored to meet these needs.Key aspects of their specialized packing and handling include:Expert Packing Techniques: Trained professionals use proven techniques and materials to pack items securely, ensuring they are protected during transit. Fragile items like glassware, antiques, and electronics receive extra attention and cushioning.Inventory Management: A detailed inventory is taken before the move, with items carefully logged and labeled. This meticulous approach helps prevent loss and confusion, providing peace of mind to seniors who can be assured that all their belongings are accounted for.Handling with Care: Moving crews are specially trained in the physical handling of items, using equipment and techniques that minimize the risk of damage. The teams are also trained in ergonomics to safely handle heavy and awkward items without injury.Unpacking and Setup: On arrival at the new home, the team not only unpacks items but also helps arrange them as per the seniors preferences. This service extends to reconnecting electronics, hanging pictures, and setting up the living space to be comfortable and familiar from day one.Providing Comfort and AssuranceDuring the moving process, one of the principal goals for Grand Living and Master Movers is to provide ongoing comfort and assurance to seniors, ensuring they feel secure and supported every step of the way. This is critical, as the familiarity of their old home is left behind and they transition into a new environment.Lessons Learned and Best PracticesOver the years, Grand Living and Master Movers have continually refined their services for seniors, drawing from each experience to enhance their approach. The accumulated insights not only improve service delivery but also offer valuable lessons and best practices that can benefit seniors and their families preparing for a move.Early Planning is Crucial: Starting the moving process early allows ample time for sorting belongings, making necessary arrangements, and addressing emotional adjustments. It reduces last-minute stress and ensures a more organized move.Communication is Key: Maintaining open and frequent communication with seniors and their families helps manage expectations and supports emotional needs. It fosters a smoother transition by building trust and alleviating concerns.Customization Enhances Comfort: Tailoring the moving experience to each seniors preferences and requirements ensures they feel respected and valued. Personal touches make the new environment feel like home faster.Post-Move Support is Essential: The moving experience doesnt end on moving day. Post-move check-ins and support are crucial in helping seniors settle into their new surroundings and resolving any issues that may arise.A Seamless Transition to Grand LivingAt the core of the services provided by Grand Living and Master Movers is the commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for all seniors. This goal is achieved by meticulously planning every detail of the move and continuously supporting the seniors throughout the process. The transition isnt just about relocating belongings; its about moving lives with dignity, respect, and utmost care.Ready to Begin?If you or a loved one are considering a move to a senior living community, or simply need to downsize and relocate, remember that you're not alone in this journey. Grand Living and Master Movers are here to ensure that the transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.We invite you to take the next steps:Contact Master Movers: Reach out to us for an initial consultation where we can discuss your specific needs and begin tailoring a moving plan that fits perfectly with your requirements.Visit Grand Living: Schedule a visit to see firsthand the facilities and services offered. Experience the environment where you or your loved one could be enjoying a new, vibrant chapter of life.Plan Your Move: Let us assist you in planning a move that considers every detail, from logistical to emotional aspects, ensuring a comfortable and reassuring transition.By choosing Grand Living and Master Movers, you are not just choosing a moving service and senior living center, but partners who will walk with you every step of the way, making sure that each phase of the move is handled with care and professionalism. Dont hesitate to make this important move the best experience possible.
Benefits of Senior Care at HomeAs we grow older, our needs change, and sometimes we require a little extra help to maintain our quality of life. Senior care at home has become an increasingly popular option for many families, offering numerous benefits that cater to the unique needs of older adults. Let's explore why this type of care can be so valuable for our loved ones.Comfort and FamiliarityOne of the greatest advantages of senior care at home is the ability to remain in a familiar environment. For many older adults, their home is filled with cherished memories and provides a sense of comfort that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Staying at home can help reduce stress and anxiety, which is particularly important for those dealing with memory issues or cognitive decline.Personalized CareEvery individual has unique needs, and senior care at home allows for a tailored approach to meet these specific requirements. Whether it's assistance with daily tasks, medication management, or specialized care for conditions like dementia, a personalized care plan ensures that your loved one receives the exact support they need.Companionship and Social InteractionLoneliness and social isolation can have serious negative effects on an older person's health and well-being. In-home caregivers not only provide practical assistance but also offer much-needed companionship. They can engage in conversations, share activities, and provide a friendly face to look forward to each day.Maintaining IndependenceMany older adults fear losing their independence as they age. Senior care at home allows them to maintain a sense of control over their lives while receiving necessary support. Caregivers can assist with tasks that have become challenging, enabling seniors to continue living life on their own terms.Family InvolvementHome care encourages family involvement in the caregiving process. This collaborative approach ensures that the family remains an integral part of the support system, promoting a holistic and well-rounded care experience.Flexible Care OptionsAs needs change over time, in-home care can be adjusted accordingly. Whether it's increasing the level of support or adding specialized services, the flexibility of home care allows for seamless transitions without the need for a major upheaval in your loved one's life.Peace of Mind for FamiliesKnowing that a trained professional is caring for your loved one can provide immense peace of mind for family members. This is especially true for those who live far away or have demanding work schedules that make it difficult to provide regular care themselves.Cost-Effective CareIn many cases, in-home care can be more cost-effective than moving to a residential facility, especially if 24/7 care is not required. It allows families to pay only for the services needed rather than a comprehensive package that may include unnecessary amenities.Promoting Overall Well-beingSenior care at home goes beyond just meeting physical needs. It encompasses emotional and mental well-being too. Caregivers can encourage seniors to stay active, engage in hobbies, and maintain social connections, all of which contribute to a higher quality of life.Specialized Care for Unique NeedsFor seniors with specific health conditions, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, in-home care can provide specialized support tailored to these unique challenges. Caregivers trained in these areas can offer expert assistance and help manage symptoms effectively.Remember, growing older doesn't mean giving up on the joys of life. With the right support, seniors can continue to thrive in the comfort of their own homes, maintaining their independence while receiving the care they need. It's not just about adding years to life but adding life to years. Quality Care You Can TrustWith over a decade of experience and a team led by a registered nurse, you can trust that your loved one is in good hands with Rita's Home Care. We are passionate about helping those in need and ensuring they receive the best care possible, just as we would for our own family members.Whether you need traditional home care services for an elderly loved one, specialized dementia care support, or end-of-life care, our team is trained and equipped to handle it all. We understand that every individual has unique needs, which is why we offer personalized care plans to ensure your loved one receives the specific support they need to thrive.
As we enter the annual season of giving, you might be thinking of charities you wish to support. But you also might be wondering how to gain some tax benefits from your gifts. It used to be pretty straightforward: You wrote a check to a charity and then deducted the amount of the gift, within limits, from your taxes. But a few years ago, as part of tax law changes, the standard deduction was raised significantly, so fewer people were able to itemize deductions. Consequently, there was less financial incentive to make charitable gifts. Of course, this didn't entirely stop people from making them. And it's still possible to gain some tax advantages, too. Here are a few tax-smart charitable giving strategies: Bunch your charitable gifts into one year. If you combine a few years' worth of charitable gifts in a single year, you could surpass the standard deduction amount and then itemize deductions for that year. In the years following, you could revert to taking the standard deduction. Make qualified charitable distributions. Once you turn 73 (or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later), you must start taking withdrawals from your traditional or inherited IRA. These withdrawals technically called required minimum distributions, or RMDs are taxable at your personal income tax rate, so, if the amounts are large enough, they could push you into a higher tax bracket or cause you to pay larger Medicare premiums. But if you donate these RMDs directly to a qualified charity, you can avoid the taxes. And because these donations, known as qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), will reduce the balance on your IRA, you may have lower RMDs in the future. Of course, if you need some or all your RMDs to help sustain yourself in retirement, the use of QCDs may not be of interest to you. Keep in mind, though, that you can start making QCDs at 70, even before you must start taking RMDs. QCDs up to $105,000 can be taken in 2024. Consider a donor-advised fund. If youre interested in a long-term charitable giving arrangement, you might want to consider establishing a donor-advised fund. You can put many types of assets into this fund, and then direct it to make grants periodically to the charities youve chosen. You get an immediate tax deduction for your contribution, and, if you donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, you'll avoid the capital gains taxes you would have incurred if you simply sold the stocks and then gave the money to the charities. One note of caution, though your contributions to a donor-advised fund are irrevocable, and once the assets are in the fund, you cant use them for anything except charitable giving. These strategies QCDs and donor-advised funds in particular can be complex and involve several issues of which you should be aware. So, you should consult your tax advisor before taking action. But if any of these techniques are appropriate for your situation, give them some thought because helping a charitable group and getting tax benefits for doing so is a win for everyone.Chad Choate III, AAMS828 3rd Avenue WestBradenton, FL 34205941-462-2445chad.chaote@edwardjones.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Improving the quality of life for older adultsSecure Aging helps seniors remain independent and navigate lifes changes by managing their bill pay, finances, and daily care. Our advocates track and monitor daily income sources; review credit card bills and bank statements for fraud, ensure income has been received and deposited; provide assistance with benefits applications; reconcile bank accounts; assist with debt negotiations; pay and track bills, and more. We offer a free initial consultation where we can review which service plan is best for the individual and their family.Click on the titles below for more information about our three convenient senior assistance plans available.
We protect and preserve each clients independence and dignity. We handle financial, health care, and life management carefully and thoughtfully to allow our clients to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.We transform the weight of the world into a sigh of relief for our senior clients and their concerned loved ones. Secure Agings care services help seniors to remain independent and maintain financial peace of mind.Our amazing team includes a Certified Public Accountant, Licensed Registered Nurses, and Certified Senior Advisors with the experience and depth of knowledge to provide support and guidance for individuals and families as they navigate the aging process.Contact us for a Free Consultation.WE ADVOCATE FOR SENIORS IN THIS STAGE OF LIFEWhen Secure Aging Can HelpClient has little to no support from family members, or chooses not to impose.Client memory is failing, forgets medications or is losing weightClient wants to remain in own home as long as possibleClient / family has need for small trust administrationClient / family needs information about community servicesClient / family needs unbiased informationCaregiver feels overwhelmedClient needs oversight existing careClient has bills that are piling up / or are unpaidWhen there is abuse, neglect, or exploitationClient needs a Power of Attorney, Health Care Surrogate or Successor Trustee
Improving the quality of life for older adultsSecure Aging helps seniors remain independent and navigate lifes changes by managing their bill pay, finances, and daily care. Our advocates track and monitor daily income sources; review credit card bills and bank statements for fraud, ensure income has been received and deposited; provide assistance with benefits applications; reconcile bank accounts; assist with debt negotiations; pay and track bills, and more. We offer a free initial consultation where we can review which service plan is best for the individual and their family.Click on the titles below for more information about our three convenient senior assistance plans available.