Dietary Changes as We Age - Comfort Keepers Western Slope

When supporting patients who wish to age comfortably at home, distinguishing between home health and in-home care can be key to effective patient support. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but each service addresses different needs in patient care. Lets clarify the distinction, as understanding these differences can help guide patients and families to the right kind of support for their circumstances.Home Health: Skilled Medical Care at HomeHome health involves medical care provided in the patient's home by licensed professionals, such as nurses, physical therapists, or occupational therapists. It is typically prescribed by a physician and can include wound care, medication management, chronic illness monitoring, and rehabilitation therapies. Examples of home health services include: Wound care for pressure sores or a surgical wound Patient and caregiver education Intravenous or nutrition therapy Injections Monitoring serious illness and unstable health status Home health focuses on supporting patients in recovering from illness or surgery, managing medical conditions, and preventing hospital readmissionsall in the comfort of their homes.In-Home Care: Assistance for Daily LivingIn-home care, on the other hand, is non-medical support provided by trained caregivers to assist individuals with daily living activities. This type of care can be short-termsuch as during recovery from surgeryor long-term for older adults who need continued assistance. Examples of in-home care services include: Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming Meal preparation Light housekeeping Companionship In-home care is especially beneficial for individuals who need support with daily activities but do not require medical intervention. The goal is to enhance quality of life by addressing personal and emotional needs while promoting independence.Choosing the Right Care for Your PatientsResearch suggests that some medical professionals may not always draw a clear line between home health and in-home care, yet understanding these distinctions can help patients receive the right type of support. Home health is ideal for those needing medical care at home, whereas in-home care focuses on enhancing day-to-day living for those who value independence but need extra help.Aging in Place with ComfortFor many seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions, aging at home is an important aspect of maintaining their quality of life. Advances in telemedicine and remote health monitoring have made it easier to integrate a mix of home health and in-home care services. This personalized approach not only offers a convenient care experience but also helps patients stay in control of their health journey.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers provides uplifting in-home care that helps seniors thrive. Our specially trained caregivers focus on developing genuine relationships with clients, keeping them physically and mentally engaged while ensuring they experience joy in their daily activities.If you know a patient or family that could benefit from Comfort Keepers services, they can reach out for a free consultation. Lets work together to help individuals age comfortably and confidently at home.

The JAAs Mollies Meals program delivers over 28,000 meals annually to seniors in the Squirrel Hill, Greenfield, and Shadyside areas. Dedicated volunteers bring nutritious meal options directly to the doors of homebound older adults who are unable to prepare their own meals. In addition to providing a hearty meal, these visits also offer a friendly greeting and an opportunity for connection.In partnership with the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, the program ensures that these fresh meals are affordable, thanks to subsidies. Designed to be easily microwaved or frozen for future use, the meals offer flexibility and convenience for the recipients.But dont just take our word for it! Hear from one of our very satisfied customers: I am a relatively active senior but have a difficult time shopping and Im not always motivated to cook for myself. My out-of-town daughter encouraged me to try Mollies Meals. And I am so glad that I did. Now mealtime is a treat! I anxiously await the arrival of my cheerful volunteer who always has an extra minute to visit while she makes sure I am well!  Your meals have truly changed my life and my outlook! I cant thank you enough. PS. My daughter AND my doctor second those words of gratitude!!Mollies Meals isnt just about providing foodits also about the relationships our volunteers build with recipients. These bonds allow our volunteers to notice when something is wrong. For instance, when Chris arrived to deliver Mr. Hs meal, she grew concerned when he hadnt picked up his morning newspaper and wasnt answering his phone. Then, when he didnt answer his door as usual, she contacted the Mollies Meals office. We reached out to his nearby emergency contact who had a key. It turned out Mr. H had fallen and couldnt reach the phone or door. Thanks to our driver, Mr. H was able to get the help he needed. After a few days in the hospital, Mr. H was back on his feet and now wears a life alert button.If you would like to register yourself or a loved one to receive Mollies Meals, or if you would like to become one of our compassionate volunteer deliverers, please call the Mollies Meals office at 412-521-7616.-Sharyn Rubin, MEdDirector of Resident & Community Services

More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimers or other dementias.Caring for a loved one can be a rewarding experience, but its not without challenges. These challenges can be significantly more impactful for those caring for a senior with Alzheimers disease or other form of dementia. Changes in behaviors can occur for a variety of reasons, including over-stimulation, physical discomfort, confusion, exhaustion caused by sleep problems, medication, or changes in routine.Understanding the cause of behavioral changes is critical for caregivers, families and friends. And its helpful for caregivers to know how to manage behaviors that will allow them to provide safe and effect support and diffuse tense situations.These behaviors can include: Depression Anxiety Confusion Aggression or anger Suspicion Hallucinations Pacing or wandering The most important thing that caregivers need to remember is that challenging behaviors may not be entirely avoidable. Its also not the fault of the person with Alzheimers or dementia. These behaviors are sometimes a common product of the disease. And, there is specialized support a caregiver can use to help keep a challenging behavior from escalating.While there is no guaranteed approach that will work with every person or situation, there are some methods that can help caregivers manage trying times:Staying calm Its not uncommon for caregivers to feel attacked or helpless when they are caring for someone exhibiting difficult behaviors. Remembering that it isnt personal and that its a symptom of the disease, can help caregivers manage their emotions and avoid contributing to tense or difficult situations. Arguing or reasoning can often escalate an outburst, so its necessary for caregivers to stay calm and supportiveKeeping a schedule Seniors that suffer from Alzheimers disease and other dementias often find it reassuring to have a set schedule for meals, activities and daily tasks. Creating a schedule, and sticking to it as much as possible, can help prevent anxiety, confusion and anger.Exercise Exercise, with approval from a physician, is a great stress reliever for both seniors and caregivers. And participating in activities together helps foster important emotional connections.Participating in activities Whether its an enjoyable hobby, household chore or physician-approved exercise, participating in joyful activities has shown to help manage challenging behaviors. These can be pre-scheduled or introduced when difficult behaviors are recognized. For example, caregivers can ask for help folding laundry to ease anxiety or can play music or sing to calm someone feeling confused, angry or depressed. Mindful communication Caregivers shouldnt underestimate the power of communication. Caregivers can use soothing tones, speak in a friendly way and make eye contact to convey normalcy, understanding and compassion. This can help seniors experiencing anxiety or frustration to calm themselves.Comfort KeepersCan HelpAt Comfort Keepers, we provide specific training for our caregivers and individualized care plans to provide care and support to seniors with Alzheimers disease and to their families. Our specially trained Comfort Keepers engage clients in intellectual, physical and emotional interactions that complement medical treatment and improve the quality of life for everyone involved. And they can facilitate stress management activities, support for physician-approved diet and exercise plans, provide transportation to appointments and will evaluate a home for safety as part of an in-home assessment. For more information on how in-home caregiving can help those with Alzheimers disease or dementia, contact your nearest Comfort Keepers office today. References         National Institute on Aging. Managing Personality and Behavior Changes in Alzheimers. Web. 2017.         Verywell Health. Complete Guide to Challenging Behaviors in Dementia. Web. 2019.          Alzheimers Association. Stages and Behaviors. Web.