Family Caregiver’s Blueprint for Dementia-Friendly Design for Life at Home: Empowering Families with Practical Tips for Safety, Independence and Joy

People over the age of 65 are more likely to be readmitted than younger patients, and readmission can be more serious for seniors.Readmission after an illness or injury is a serious health issue for seniors. However, it is important for seniors and their loved ones to remember that in many cases, readmission is avoidable and can be prevented with a thoughtful post-hospital care plan.Nearly one-fifth of all Medicare patients in the United States who are discharged from the hospital end up returning within 30 days. There are many reasons seniors may need to be readmitted to the hospital, but healthcare agencies are focused on finding ways to reduce these numbers and educate patients about how to have a healthier recovery at home.For many seniors, this means having a quality caregiver that can help them overcome some of the main preventable causes for returning to the hospital. Consider the following:Medication is critical: Some seniors need assistance taking medication in the right amount on the correct schedule. When you consider that, on average, seniors with chronic conditions fill 50 different prescriptions annually, it is not difficult to imagine how someone could get confused when a new medication is added to their regimen. Caregivers can not only remind seniors to take medications as prescribed, but they can also help seniors keep a list of those medications and their dosages so the information is readily available for healthcare professionals. Managing medications is one of the best ways a caregiver can help seniors during their recovery.Follow up visits prevent readmission: A full two-thirds of patients readmitted to the hospital would have avoided that trip if they had seen their physicians within two weeks for follow up. The reasons for not following up vary but can include transportation difficulties and forgetting to make or keep appointments. Hospital staff can aid the senior by setting up appointments for the individual before discharge, but getting to the appointment can still be a challenge. In addition to a host of uplifting care services, caregivers can provide transportation to appointments and keep track of any post-care visits.Discharge plans only work when implemented properly: Having a discharge plan for the patient before he or she leaves the hospital can be crucial for recovery, but it can be difficult for seniors and their family members to focus on the plan during the stress of the illness and discharge. Caregivers can help the senior follow the instructions, and will connect with family or other approved individuals when there are problems or change in condition during recovery. They can also help explain the information or ensure that the appropriate person is notified if the older individual has questions about his or her course of treatment. This takes the stress off the family and the patient so he or she can focus on recovery.Having a helping hand during recovery can ensure positive outcomes and a return to an active, engaged life. Family members, friends and neighbors are often willing to serve as a post-hospital recovery caregiver, but there is professional help available for those that dont have someone nearby to assist them. For long-term recovery, those who have the assistance of friends and family can benefit from a professional caregiver to provide respite care and support. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. 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. ReferencesRelias. What you need to know about readmission among seniors. Web. 2016.American Hospital Association. Examining the drivers of readmissions and reducing unnecessary readmissions for better patient care 2011 AHA Policy Research. Web. 2011.Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Ten things you should know about care transitions. Web. 2013.

One in five adults suffer from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors. For older adults to understand the stages of living with arthritis, its helpful to talk about how the disease is identified, diagnosed and managed.Contact an Office in Your AreaArthritis is not actually a diagnosis its a general term that covers more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting the joints.One in five adults suffer from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors. For those that live with arthritis every day, the symptoms can be a barrier to doing the hobbies they love. But with management strategies and lifestyle changes, many seniors find that they can continue the activities that bring them hope, purpose and joy.For older adults to understand the stages of living with arthritis, its helpful to talk about how the disease is identified, diagnosed and managed.Signs and symptoms:Generally, symptoms of arthritis can include any of the following: joint redness, swelling, pain, stiffness, warmth, or difficulty with movement. Many people are familiar with arthritis of the hands and feet, but they dont always realize that it can affect any joint in the body. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should visit their physician.Diagnosis:When diagnosing arthritis, medical professionals will typically conduct a physical exam, and gather medical history and genetics information to help identify the type of arthritis. Blood tests and imaging may be necessary as well. While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed to limit the impact it has on seniors.Strategies for arthritis management:A physician can recommend arthritis management strategies and approve all plans to change or increase physical activity.Lifestyle changes: Seniors with arthritis may need to stop performing certain activities, or limit them. Depending on the area of the body affected, some hobbies may become more difficult. However, planning ahead can be helpful for example, having a stool to sit on in the kitchen can help seniors that want to cook but have difficulty standing for long periods of time due to arthritis pain. Movement: For some types of arthritis, sitting or working in one position for too long can cause the condition to worsen. Moving, walking and stretching every 15 minutes can be helpful. For some, setting an alarm as a reminder to prompt movement can be helpful. A doctor should be consulted before seniors begin any exercise regimen.Weight  Maintaining a healthy weight can be helpful in managing arthritis. Excess weight can cause strain on joints, worsening the condition. Anyone concerned about this should consult their physician for exercise and diet recommendations. Education and awareness are critical seniors that may have arthritis, or have already been diagnosed, should engage their care team to develop management strategies. Comfort Keepers Can HelpA care plan for arthritis can minimize the impact of the disease on a seniors life, and Comfort Keepers can provide support for a management program. Our caregivers remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. As part of an individualized care plan, caregivers can also help with activities like cooking, cleaning and physical care. 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. ReferencesArthritis Foundation. Understanding Arthritis. Web.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 5 Proven Ways to Manage Arthritis. Web. 2019.Quest Diagnostics. Helping you focus on patients with arthritis Web.Everyday Health. May is Arthritis Awareness Month Mark it with the ABCs. Web. 2018

Everyone has a unique vision of their perfect retirement. You may want to spend your senior years traveling the world or mastering the art of cooking. Or perhaps you daydream about making new friends and volunteering. No matter your goals, active aging can help you achieve your dreams and make the most of your retirement. What is active aging? The World Health Organization defines this concept as the process of optimizing opportunities for health, participation, and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age. Active aging goes beyond physical exercise. This framework promotes civic involvement, emotional health, independence, social engagement, and spiritual well-being. Active aging enables seniors to have happier and more purposeful lives. Older adults can stay connected to their communities by participating in meaningful activities like going to religious services and volunteering at a local food bank. Many seniors also invest time in their hobbies and attend social events. Additionally, staying active helps seniors stay fit, healthy, and mentally sharp as they age. Recreational and social activities exercise the body and the mind, promoting overall health and well-being. This blog explores the many benefits of staying active and the role of active aging communities.  Benefits of Active AgingActive aging has numerous benefits for older adults. This approach can improve every aspect of your life.Physical Benefits of Active AgingRegular exercise is an integral part of active aging. Seniors can participate in a broad range of physical activities, such as biking, hiking, and Tai Chi. Recreational activities like going to the museum and playing games with grandchildren also keep older adults moving. Because active aging prioritizes exercise and movement, it offers many physical benefits, such as: Better quality of sleep: Many seniors have difficulty falling and staying asleep. Staying physically active can reduce sleep disturbances and improve your overall sleep quality, so you feel more energized during the day. Decreased risk of mortality: Active aging can help you have a longer and healthier life. According to a 2022 study, older adults who engage in 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous-intensity exercise weekly had a 31% lower risk of mortality than people who exercise less frequently. Reduced number of falls: Research shows that regular exercise reduces the rate of falls by 25%. Mental Benefits of Active AgingActive aging also provides many advantages for mental health, such as: Decreased risk of depression: Many seniors experience depression as they get older, but this isnt an inevitable part of aging. Active aging positively impacts mental health and reduces the risk of depression. Improved cognitive function: According to a 2021 study, seniors who engage in a variety of meaningful daily activities experience less cognitive decline as they age. Reduced anxiety: Research shows that seniors who live an active lifestyle have fewer anxiety symptoms. Social Benefits of Active AgingYou can improve your social health by embracing active aging. Social benefits include: Increased sense of belonging: Active living enables seniors to build strong relationships with others, making them feel like they belong to a community.Reduced social isolation: Engaging in a broad range of fulfilling activities helps older adults stay connected with their peers and develop support networks. Emotional Benefits of Active AgingActive aging promotes emotional well-being in many ways, such as: Greater resilience: Older adults who participate in meaningful activities cope better with challenging situations. Improved mood: Seniors with active lifestyles generally feel happier and more fulfilled. Examples of Active Aging ActivitiesTheres no one-size-fits-all approach to active aging. You can prioritize recreational and social activities that align with your goals and interests. Its also a good idea to get out of your comfort zone by regularly trying new classes, hobbies, and social events. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover a new passion or make a friend you wouldnt have otherwise met.  Some of the most common active aging activities include: Cooking demonstrationsCreative activities, such as art classes and creative writing groups  Dance classes Social dinners and gatheringsFitness classes, including aquarobics, Pilates, Tai Chi, and yoga Genealogy research Hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities Joining a book or gardening clubLifelong learning courses  Meditating independently or in a group Outings to the aquarium, art museum, orchestra, or zoo Religious services Special events like festivals, car shows, and music concerts Sports, such as golf and tennis Volunteering with local community organizations, such as animal shelters, schools, and libraries Wine tasting Community board game and movie nights Choosing diverse activities promotes overall well-being by engaging your body, mind, and soul in different ways. For example, you might break a sweat at your morning Pilates class, spend the afternoon painting, and catch the latest blockbuster film with friends. Active Aging CommunitiesActive aging communities are designed for older adults who want to spend their retirement engaged in energizing and enriching activities. These communities take a holistic approach to aging by helping seniors thrive creatively, emotionally, mentally, physically, and socially. They recognize that each resident has a unique background and interests, and they help seniors find personal fulfillment. These communities offer varying levels of care, depending on the needs of their residents. Independent living communities have individual residences for active seniors who want to enjoy access to amenities but dont need regular medical assistance. Assisted living communities offer all the perks of independent living but also provide additional support for seniors who need help with everyday tasks. All types of active living communities have a variety of amenities to support busy and fun-filled lifestyles. Popular features include: Leisure and social events: Theres always something going on in an active living community. In fact, many communities organize so many events that you can effortlessly fill your entire calendar. For example, you could sample ros at a weekly wine-tasting event, discuss classic literature at a book club, and show off your skills at a community golf tournament. Maintenance-free living: Active living communities eliminate the hassle of chores and home maintenance. Staff handle routine tasks like cooking, laundry, raking leaves, and washing windows. These services let you dedicate your energy and time to your hobbies and social life. On-site dining: Many communities have on-site restaurants led by executive chefs and nutrition experts. You can savor a constantly-evolving selection of delicious and healthy meals without the hassle of cooking and washing dishes. These restaurants are social hubs where you can casually interact with other residents. Workout facilities: Stay in shape by attending fitness classes or private training sessions led by expert instructors. You can also hit the gym or swimming pool for an independent workout. You can choose the perfect active living community by researching communities that offer the amenities and services you need. Communities that have received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities have demonstrated that they provide high-quality services, amenities, and care.Getting Started with Active AgingAll older adults can improve their health and happiness by embracing active aging. Here are a few tips for staying active as you get older: Ask a friend to attend new activities with you Eat nutritious foods to stay energized and healthy Engage in a variety of physical exercises to avoid boredomFind a creative outletGet a pet, like a dog you can walkPrioritize sleep Reduce stressIf this all sounds a bit overwhelming, dont worry. You can get started by developing a simple active aging plan that includes these elements: Physical Activities: Consider which types of exercise make you feel the most motivated and look for ways to incorporate them into your daily life. For instance, you could join a biking club or sign up for tennis lessons. Your doctor may also offer personal recommendations based on your health. A person with osteoporosis could benefit from strength training exercises, while someone with Dementia might enjoy daily walks. Hobbies: Make time to indulge in your favorite hobbies and experiment with new activities. An art class could let you express yourself in new ways, while weekends at the golf course enable you to perfect your skills. Social Events: Socializing with peers lets you develop a support network and share your interests with like-minded people. Volunteering: Giving back to your community helps you make friends and may benefit your cardiovascular health.Of course, active aging isnt always smooth sailing. Some seniors develop health conditions that prevent them from participating in their favorite activities. For instance, a person with cataracts may need to switch from biking to safer activities like walking. Similarly, someone experiencing financial challenges could search for free or low-cost activities. With a bit of creativity and support from your community, you can overcome many obstacles and keep aging actively. The National Institute on Aging offers many resources to learn more about active aging. Flourish With Active Aging Active aging promotes holistic well-being and self-care. Stay happy, healthy, and engaged as you age by participating in meaningful recreational and social activities. SRG Senior Livings active living communities offer the amenities and freedom you need to nourish your body, mind, and soul. Find more advice in our Healthy Aging guide, and contact us to discover how we can help you embrace a vibrant and purposeful life.