What happens when the roles are flipped? One day your parents are independent, seemingly healthy, on their own, and enjoying life. They come for a visit, take the grandkids to the park, and treat everyone to a nice night out for dinner. It’s a wonderful time and everyone has fun. Sure, they have a few annoying quirks, and you feel like you’re constantly repeating yourself to your mom, but you look past that during the week. After all, it’s only for a short time and then everything will be back to normal.
A month later your dad has an accident while cleaning out the garage and ends up in the hospital. While in the hospital they see something suspicious in his lab work and immediately call Oncology for a consult. Your Dad has been diagnosed with cancer and treatment is recommended immediately. Your mom is home alone, and you don’t worry too much about that, because you just saw her a month ago and she’ll be ok on her own. The most important thing is getting dad taken care of.
Mom doesn’t drive any longer, so she has a friend taking her to the hospital to visit a few times a week. A week goes by, and you get a call that your mom seems very different since the accident. You ask a few questions and after the friend digs a little deeper, you learn Mom hasn’t been taking her medications properly. It also looks like she hasn’t been eating much and you discover she’s been living on tea and toast for over a week, and you become concerned for her safety at home.
You quickly take some time off work to go visit dad, and stay at the house with your mom. This is the moment everything in your life changes. The house is a disaster, your mom has been wearing the same clothes and washing her undergarments out in the sink if she remembers. You keep asking yourself, “how could mom change so quickly?” You talk to your dad about mom at the hospital, he finally tells you what he’s been hiding for years. If he’s by your mom’s side most people have no idea how much care and oversight she needs (including her own children). You discover dad has been protecting his wife and doing everything from shopping, cleaning, cooking, and managing mom’s meds. Suddenly you realize it’s been years since you’ve ever spent any time with either of them alone. They are ALWAYS together and out of nowhere; you realize mom can’t be alone and you’ll need to do something fast to help the situation.
Just like that, your life is completely different. Instead of worrying about taking care of your own children, you now must figure out how you’re going to take care of your parents. You take mom back home with you, dad stays in the hospital for another month and transfers to Skilled Nursing for rehab. When he’s finally discharged there is no way he can manage the house safely on his own, so he moves into your home too. In 3 months, your parents went from what you thought was completely independent to virtually dependent on you for everything.
These things happen all the time, and life’s pendulum can swing from one end to the other in an instant. You are now the primary caregiver for both of your elderly parents, and your own children and you still have a spouse. What you saw three months ago during their visit is an eternity away from what you see now.
What do you do? Where do you start? Who can help? You are NOT alone and there are people whose full-time job is to help those that find themselves in this type of situation.
There are many wonderful resources and options available to people who find themselves in this situation. AARP, the Alzheimer’s Association, Townsquare, Caring Connections, Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare.gov, and Senior Blue Book just to name a few.
Once you learn the options available that best suit your needs and the needs of your loved one, you can evaluate what’s going to be right for you (and for them). Is it in-home care assistance, adult day care, assisted living, downsizing of a home, an elder law attorney, or financial services? You may need help selling a home, conducting an estate sale, moving to a new location, and generally changing everything you knew as “normal” as recently as a few months ago. Many of these things you’ll be learning about for the first time and there are many people ready to help you. You are not alone and the most important thing you remember is to also take care of yourself through it all. An exhausted and overwhelmed caregiver is no good to anyone and is at risk of getting sick, burnt out, or depressed. If you find yourself in this type of situation, never be afraid to ask for help! Town Square is quick to offer resources, please reach out to our center for more information about the resources available.
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.
Specialized Care for Seniors with Alzheimers, Dementia, and ParkinsonsAt Town Square University Parkway, we specialize in creating a vibrant, interactive 1950s-themed environment designed to support seniors with Alzheimer's, various forms of dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Our adult day program is an ideal solution for seniors who experience mobility or cognitive impairments, offering them a safe and engaging space to thrive.Engaging EnvironmentOur center operates Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, providing a full town center with 15 different storefronts for our members to explore. This unique setup promotes independence and engagement in a secure setting, ensuring that each day is filled with opportunities for interaction and stimulation.Comprehensive Medical Model-Town Square University Parkway stands out for its true medical model, providing a range of healthcare services on-site, including:Primary Care Services, , Psychiatric Services, Lab Services, Quarterly Podiatry, Dermatology, and Audiology ServicesThis integrated approach ensures that our members receive comprehensive care without the need to travel to multiple locations.Support for Families and Caregivers- In addition to our medical services, we offer various weekly groups and activities aimed at supporting both our members and their families. These include:Support Groups, , Educational Classes, Special Events, Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for our members while providing essential support to their families and caregivers, helping everyone involved enjoy a better quality of life and enabling seniors to stay at home as long as possible.Our PhilosophyAt Town Square, we understand that cognitive and functional abilities can change over time. Our programming is designed to adapt to these changes, providing a caring and supportive environment tailored to each members needs. We believe in the importance of improving quality of life as we age, and we are passionate about serving each member as a unique individual.ToursExperience our midcentury-themed environment firsthand by scheduling a tour. We are eager to show you around our engaging adult day center. Visit our website or call us today for more information.