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A recent Harvard School of Public Health study published in The American Journal of Public Health suggests that “strong social ties, through friends, family and community groups can preserve our brain health as we age, and that social isolation may be an important risk factor for cognitive decline in the elderly.” The study also indicated that those elderly engaged in many social contacts had the slowest rate of memory decline.
For elderly persons living alone, maintaining that social contact becomes extremely difficult. Remaining in one’s home always seems like a wonderful goal, but it can bring unintended consequences, the most common one being isolation. The less able one is to get out and around (or drive), the more they stay at home, alone and out of touch, the fewer activities they are involved in, and the more they withdraw into themselves. This hastens decline, both physically and mentally, which keeps them home even more – a vicious downward spiral.
Using in-home care services is one way to introduce people into their daily lives and offer the possibility of connections and relationships. Our caregivers often establish strong bonds with their clients, bonds that enrich both of their lives. Although the caregiver starts out as a support and helper for the client, it is not unusual for the relationship to evolve into one where the caregiver is learning from the life stories of the client, where they both share laughs or worries about life, where the client can offer advice and wisdom. The social contact becomes as important as the caregiving tasks that are getting completed. The hours the caregivers spend in the house bring energy, connection, the outside world. Caregivers help ward off the social isolation and the decline that comes with it.
Your home is one of your most significant investments, and taking care of it shouldnt be an afterthought. A Home Maintenance Plan is more than just a convenienceits a strategic way to protect your property, save money, and reduce stress.Heres why investing in a Home Ally Maintenance Plan is the smartest decision you can make for your home and peace of mind.1. Proactive Care Saves You MoneySmall problems left unchecked can turn into costly repairs.Examples of Preventable Costs:Dirty HVAC filters reducing system efficiency and increasing energy bills.Loose fixtures that cause further damage over time.Why It Matters: Regular maintenance catches these issues early, saving you money and avoiding bigger problems.2. Simplifies Your To-Do ListBetween work, family, and other commitments, finding time for home maintenance can be overwhelming.How a Maintenance Plan Helps:TruBlue handles routine tasks like smoke detector battery checks, lightbulb replacement, and seasonal checks.Youll never have to scramble for repairs or maintenance on your own.The Result: More time for the things you love and less stress about home care.3. Protects Your Homes ValueWell-maintained homes retain their value and even appreciate over time.Key Benefits:Regular maintenance keeps systems and fixtures in excellent condition.Keeps interior spaces fresh and functional for better appeal.Prepares your home for future resale, ensuring fewer issues during inspections.Fun Fact: Buyers often prioritize homes with a history of regular maintenance.4. Year-Round ComfortEvery season brings unique maintenance needs. TruBlues Home Maintenance Plan ensures your home is always prepared.Seasonal Services Include:Winter: Sealing drafts and heating systems filter changes.Spring: Preparing outdoor spaces and checking essential systems.Summer: Cooling system filter changes and deck maintenance.Fall: Ensuring seasonal adjustments for energy efficiency and comfort.Why It Matters: Your home remains safe and comfortable no matter the season.5. Customized to Your Homes NeedsNo two homes are alike, which is why our plans are tailored to your unique requirements.What We Offer:Flexible scheduling to suit your lifestyle.Services specific to your homes age, location, and features.Options for one-time fixes or ongoing care.TruBlue Advantage: A plan designed just for you ensures maximum value and efficiency.6. Peace of Mind for You and Your FamilyKnowing your home is in expert hands reduces anxiety and frees up mental energy.How We Provide Peace of Mind:Reliable service from experienced professionals.Transparent communication about whats done and whats next.Regular updates and reminders to keep everything on track.A TruBlue Home Maintenance Plan is more than just a serviceits a partnership that protects your home, simplifies your life, and ensures peace of mind. With proactive care, tailored solutions, and year-round support, its the best investment youll make in your home.Contact TruBlue today to set up your personalized Home Maintenance Plan and discover the joy of worry-free homeownership!
Helen, a vibrant 78-year-old who thrives in the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season, hosts gatherings and participates in longstanding family traditions. Come January, the sudden silence of her home, now void of guests and decorations, can feel overwhelming. This abrupt shift from constant social interaction to minimal contact is one of the main reasons seniors feel lonely after the holidays. This situation is, sadly, very common, says Meshelle McKendry of Right at Home of Glenwood Springs. The winter holidays bring a flurry of activity and companionship that can brighten seniors lives, whether they live alone or in a senior living community. But once the decorations are packed away and families return to their routines, a stark quiet can settle in, leaving many seniors feeling isolated. The contrast can be jarring, says McKendry. Why Post-Holiday Loneliness Occurs Social interaction drops off: During the holidays, older adults often experience an increase in social contactvisits from family and friends, holiday parties, and community events. Once the festivities end, the sudden drop in social interaction can feel particularly stark, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): The winter months bring shorter days and longer nights, whichespecially where winters are coldcan lead to seasonal affective disorder or winter blues, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and sadness. Physical challenges: Cold weather can also limit an older adults mobility, making it difficult for them to leave home and engage with others. Reflection and remembrance: The holidays can also be a time of reflection, where older adults may reminisce about past holidays and loved ones or friends who are no longer present. Even during the holidays, notes McKendry these memories can contribute to feelings of loneliness. Coping Strategies for Seniors Compare Helens story to that of David, a retired teacher who lives in a senior community. His family lives across the country, and visits are infrequent. Although he sometimes does not see his family during the winter holidays, David has found new sources of purpose and community throughout the year. He volunteers at the local library and participates in the community garden, activities that keep him connected and engaged all year long. For older adults, maintaining a regular schedule of social contacts like that can be incredibly beneficial, says McKendry Engaging in regular activities, even simple ones like joining a book club, attending a craft workshop, or simply having a scheduled weekly phone call with family, can make a big difference. Here are more tips: Use technology. Technology can help bridge the gap, especially for family members who live far away. Video calls, social media, and even online games can provide interactive ways to stay connected. Schedule regular activities. Many senior centers and communities offer regular programming. If you have hobbies that you typically do independently, like reading, crafts, or gardening, consider inviting a friend to enjoy them with you. Look for volunteer work. Volunteering can be an excellent way for seniors to feel connected and purposeful, which are key to combating loneliness. McKendry suggests people start with their personal knowledge or interests. For example, avid readers could consider volunteering at a local library. Consider getting professional help for mental health. Be honest with yourself about your mental health. You could start by asking your primary health care provider for advice or a referral. Unchecked loneliness and isolation can ultimately affect your physical health and well-being. How Family and Friends Can Help Older Adults 1. Make regular visits or stay in touch. Make a concerted effort to visit or communicate regularly with the senior in your life. Something as simple as a daily text or phone call can make a big difference.2. Plan post-holiday visits. Consider scheduling a visit in January or February, which can give your older loved one something to anticipate after the holidays wind down.3. Involve them in planning. Encourage your older loved one to help plan that post-holiday visit or other gatherings or events. Planning can help fill their hours and get them talking with you or others.4. Watch for signs of depression. Signs of depression or severe loneliness could include changes in appetite, sleep, or general disinterest in life, says McKendry. 5. Early intervention is key in managing these issues.6. Talk to your older loved one about in-home caregivers. Right at Home offers companion care, in which our caregivers provide important social interaction while also helping with tasks at home or elsewhere. Understanding the reasons behind post-holiday loneliness and taking proactive steps to counteract it can help ensure that seniors feel connected, valued, and cared for all year round. By weaving a safety net of family, friends, activities, and professional support, we can help diminish the quiet that comes after the festive season and foster a year full of meaningful connections. About Right at Home of Grand Junction We have two locations to serve Western Colorado.2777 Crossroads Blvd, Ste. 3 Grand Junction, CO 81506 ||||| 214 8th Street, Ste 215 Glenwood Springs, CO 81501 Our office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Mesa, Garfield, Eagle, and Pitkin Counties. For more information, contact Right at Home by Calling 970-697-1331 | Email: Care@gjhomecare.com | Web Address: www.gjhomecare.com
While physical fitness is crucial for seniors health, nurturing ones mind is equally as important. Brain exercises enhance cognitive abilities, memory, and focus, similar to how diverse workouts target specific muscle groups. At Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, we understand the unique needs of our clients in the Northeast. Thats why weve gathered eight enjoyable memory games designed to improve mental skills and keep the mind agile. Read on to discover these delightful, brain-boosting activities and lets play!Jigsaw PuzzlesSolving jigsaw puzzles can enhance visual-spatial skills and improve problem-solving abilities. Connecting pieces of different shapes and colors tests patience and sharpens an individuals eye for detail.Simon SaysPlaying Simon Says, a classic childhood game, encourages active listening and short-term memory. Its a fun way to exercise ones ability to follow instructions accurately while encouraging quick thinking and coordination. Partner up with a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver and give it a try!TriviaAnswering trivia questions is a great way for seniors to test their knowledge of different subjects, while also learning new facts and improving memory. Looking for a topic? Consider exploring the Northeasts history, geography, and local culture. Challenge friends, family, or a caregiver to a few rounds and see who wins the title of ultimate trivia champ!Crossword Puzzles or SudokuCompleting crossword puzzles and Sudoku challenges vocabulary, logic, and problem-solving skills. Tricky brain teasers promote mental agility and are a delightful, accessible way to keep the mind sharp and active.Word RecallWord Recall is a fun game that involves remembering and reciting words. To start the game, pick a word. Next, each player takes turns adding a new word that begins with the last letter of the previous word. For example, if the first word is apple, the next could be elephant, and so on. This simple game is an engaging way to improve language processing and recall.Chess or CheckersChallenge a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver to a game of chess or checkers! Strategy games demand critical thinking, planning, and foresight. Playing a few rounds hones analytical skills and enhances concentration and decision-making abilities all from the comfort of home.Name That TuneHow well do you or your senior loved one know your favorite songs? Our clients can test their music knowledge with this enjoyable recall game. To get started, have a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver play a few seconds of a song and try to guess the title and who sings it. Studies show that music can stimulate the part of the brain responsible for memory and emotion. Not to mention, hearing familiar tunes can also bring back positive feelings of nostalgia.Memory TrayImprove short-term memory using items found around the house. Participants will need a partner for this one a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver makes the perfect teammate! Start by asking them to place some items on a tray or tabletop. Study the pieces for a minute or two and then have them remove the objects. Afterward, try to recall as many items as possible. This game is an interactive way to challenge attention, concentration, and visual-spatial abilities. These memory games are specifically tailored to engage seniors, providing enjoyable moments of connection while challenging their minds. Activities like playing word games or testing analytical skills can boost brain function, improve cognitive skills, and enhance seniors overall mental acuity. When paired with Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, mental agility training enables seniors to live their golden years to the fullest potential, while staying connected to their community and their roots.
From medication fills twice a month, skilled services to end of life care our registered Nurses want to be part of the solution for our seniors looking for a higher level of care in their home. An RN is the next best professional to examine a clients overall medical condition and keep the primary Dr. and Triage nurse up to date. Seniors starting to have difficulty managing their meds get added benefit of having an experienced set of eyes to catch possible problems. We can also be called in an emergency if our client is debating going to the hospital. Our nurses provide oversight to C.N.A's for clients requiring skilled care. Heartfelt nursing services from Dignity care.
From medication fills twice a month, skilled services to end of life care our registered Nurses want to be part of the solution for our seniors looking for a higher level of care in their home. An RN is the next best professional to examine a clients overall medical condition and keep the primary Dr. and Triage nurse up to date. Seniors starting to have difficulty managing their meds get added benefit of having an experienced set of eyes to catch possible problems. We can also be called in an emergency if our client is debating going to the hospital. Our nurses provide oversight to C.N.A's for clients requiring skilled care. Heartfelt nursing services from Dignity care.