How You Move Matters

Author

Wayforth - Texas

Posted on

Mar 13, 2023

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Florida - Orlando , Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest , New Jersey - Bergen and Passaic Counties , New Jersey - Morris & Somerset Counties , New Jersey - Ocean & Monmouth Counties , Pennsylvania - South Central PA , Texas - Dallas, Collin, SE Denton & Rockwall Counties

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There’s a reason they say moving is the third most stressful event in life. Not only does it throw your typical routine out the window and add to an already growing to-do list, but living out of boxes for days or weeks, and not knowing where things are, can weigh heavily on you emotionally and physically.

 

One important thing to understand is that there is a real difference between a move management service and everyday movers. While movers might handle packing, driving from one location to another, and unpacking, a move management organization goes far beyond to assist you from creating a complete inventory of your possessions for a space plan to setting up your new home (some will even make your bed).

 

Whether you’re moving to a senior living community or relocating to another home, your move management company should be able to fulfill all the needs that come with your transition. This could include assisting with donating items to a local charity, short and long-term storage options, clearing out and preparing your home for sale, and most importantly understanding the emotional impact that comes with moving from your home of 50+ years.


Read more about WayForth's services here!

 

WayForth has helped over 15,000 people since our start in 2016. We have learned that it is possible to reduce the stress associated with relocation by being prepared. Our move management experts help with downsizing, floor planning, packing and unpacking, and more. WayForth can help you or a family member with our personalized moving solutions to fit everyone’s unique needs. Contact our moving professionals today at 817-697-4478 or visit our website to learn more.

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Waxahachie High School Alumni: A Legacy of Support and Resources

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Finding the right memory care facility

Alzheimers effects more than 6 million Americans, and that number is expected to only rise. It is uncertain, theres no way of telling how this disease will develop over time for your loved one because of its unpredictable ways. It can progress rapidly or painfully slow, early, mid, and late-stage Alzheimers is the cycle this disease follows.Alzheimers and dementia require around the clock care, caregivers are a lot of times family, and it can be a burden on them to dedicate themselves to taking care of their loved one alone. According to the Alzheimers Association, over 11 million Americans are caregivers for those suffering from Alzheimers or dementia, unpaid.Alzheimers, dementia, and other types of memory impairment can affect peoples and families lives drastically. To ensure your loved one gets the help they need, look out for early warning signs of cognitive impairment. When it does come time to make a care plan, turning to memory care will help in the process of planning.The purpose of memory care facilities is to provide a safe and healthy environment for residents who suffer from Alzheimers, dementia, and other types of memory impairment. Receiving a diagnosis like Alzheimers requires your loved one to live in a safe environment with trained professionals. Choosing memory care can be one of the best options to receive top tier and individualized care.There are approximately 30,000 assisted living facilities with memory care units included in them, making it important for you or your loved one to find which works best.It can be difficult to narrow down a memory care facility thats right for your loved one. The most important part when selecting a memory care facility is making sure it checks all the boxes. 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Each state is different and usually is monitored by the states health department or social services. To learn more, click here.Longevity and Certification of StaffHaving experienced and well-trained staff is crucial to a properly run facility. The staff who have been there for years know the residents well, are very familiar with the facility and are experienced. When assisting residents, you or your loved one want a staff member who knows what they are doing. This isnt to say younger, newer staff are not qualified, but staff with higher longevity have more experience working in this environment. Its important to note if the staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners, having staff who understands and is trained in the disease is incredibly valuable to you and your loved one.Look for a Friendly Atmosphere and Environment in a Memory Care UnitFacilityHaving a clean facility is important in choosing the right space. 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Keep in mind if staff looks well-groomed and if they seem to care about their positions in facilities as they are responsible for residents. People who work in memory care should be passionate in this line of work, find people you and your loved one connect with and feel comfortable around.Look for Quality Services and Amenities of Memory CareCareCan you and your loved ones needs be met? Will the nurses and staff cater to your loved one for their specific required needs? These are questions to think about before making the final decision about where to go. 24/7 nursing is important to have when aging, someone to always be there in case of emergency. Look into how care is administered and how it is determined to cater to your loved one. Ask questions on the tour, reach out to the director, and read all the information the facility will provide in detail.TransportationHaving transportation to be able to take your loved one to appointments is needed to transport them safely instead of having to get family or friends during the day to come and do it. This is an important amenity to families of loved ones and residents.Outside SpaceAs humans, everyone needs fresh air. Having a path to walk on or somewhere to be able to sit and get fresh air is important, especially living with Alzheimers or dementia. Its easy to become cooped up a lot of the time, and not want to socialize or come out of the room because it seems scary. Going outside and moving will help any feelings of isolation or sadness. 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Having a facility that enriches and encourages families to come and visit their loved ones is important to help maintain close bonds. Holiday parties with family, birthdays, and get togethers can help residents with Alzheimers or dementia stay connected.Look for Memory Care Quality Food ServiceDietary NeedsMost people have different needs or specific restrictions when it comes to their diet, especially as they age. It can be recommended by your doctor if suffering from Alzheimers or dementia, an allergy, or a personal choice. Making sure a facility offers special dietary services is an important feature. While looking, its important to also research if the menu is approved by a dietitian.VisitorsLook into whether residents can have visitors and what that cost would be. Some residents might not be able to leave the facility because they are not able, so its important to see if the facility allows family members to have private parties or gatherings.Ask Questions About Contacts and FeesWhen on a tour or speaking with the facility employees ask questions like the following: Are there community entrance fees? Are there any extra costs? Can you age in place? How often do rates increase?Some facilities charge these fees, and some do not. Each facility will work differently for everyone based on their financial situation and each facility offers different services to residents. Find whats best for you and your loved one!This checklist is meant to help get you or your loved ones mind to begin thinking about important aspects to consider when discussing moving into memory care. There are many attributes that pertain to where you or your loved one make the choice. 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It gives you, your loved one, and family members peace of mind knowing medical professionals are always readily available day through night. With Alzheimers or dementia, it can be hard to communicate when not feeling well, or something is wrong. Professional nurses who are trained in memory care can communicate with you or your loved one safely and more efficiently.As families accept the reality of their loved ones being diagnosed with Alzheimers or dementia, the idea of taking care of them can be overwhelming. Family members usually dont have the skills or tools necessary to properly take care of their loved one. Memory care helps release that burden of feeling like someone needs to put their life on hold. There are nurses who work at these facilities dedicating their lives to patients like your loved one. 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Memory care facilities offer amenities like those to bring a sense of normalcy to residents and gives them the independence to explore right there.Reason 4: Healthy Dining ProgramAt memory care facilities, it is very important to residents with Alzheimers or dementia. Usually, dementia friendly meals are served to keep residents physically and mentally healthy as much as possible. When suffering from Alzheimers or dementia, its easy to forget to eat, not remember if you did already, or become too overwhelmed. A balanced diet is important because your loved one cant be responsible for taking care of themselves alone anymore.Memory care facilities help monitor and create balanced meals for residents. They also give the option to not dine alone and create conversation daily while being fueled with the proper nutrition.Reason 5: Making it Feel Close to HomeMemory care facilities dont have to feel like an uncomfortable place. 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Unless you or your loved one has home care, there needs to be a solution to help in dealing with Alzheimers or dementia. Memory care facilities will offer constant care and a community for you or your loved one to be a part of, safely.In ConclusionWhen diagnosed with Alzheimers or dementia, having a plan is important to creating the best quality of life possible for your loved one. Memory care will help keep them stimulated, safe and sociable. As hard as it may be to come to terms with a difficult diagnosis, its always possible to create a path in which its not as scary. Memory care facilities will take you and your loved one in with open arms.Pittsburgh is known as one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania according to Niche. It is rich in American history and known as the City of Bridges having 446 of them. There are 195 assisted living facilities in the Pittsburgh area, they offer different opportunities for levels of care and costs.Pittsburgh is a place where different age groups can find multiple activities to do. Being in assisted living wont stop you from still enjoying the city you live in if youre able. Look into the local arts and culture of Pittsburgh, like the Warhol Museum.Where you or your loved one decides to choose memory care is important, as well as the town around it. The Village of Williamsville offers unique shops and a friendly atmosphere to explore. If youre interested in learning more about memory care facilities and what they can offer to you or a loved one, research! Call up potential facilities and schedule a tour to see it in person or a virtual visit.Take the information here and process all the opportunities memory care can give to you and a loved one. It can help to transform someones quality of life, while dealing with an incurable disease. There are so many opportunities for residents with the activities and amenities offered through memory care. Memory care is to help you and your loved one live a better life.

Understanding Parkinsons & Its Impact on Families

Understanding Parkinsons and Its Impact on FamiliesCaring for a loved one with Parkinsons disease presents unique challenges that require both emotional resilience and practical strategies. As the disease progresses, families often find themselves in unfamiliar territory, struggling to balance their personal and professional lives while ensuring their aging loved one receives the best care possible. This article provides an in-depth look at Parkinsons disease, how it affects families, and the essential steps to prepare for the caregiving journey.What is Parkinsons Disease?Parkinsons disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, but it also has cognitive and emotional implications. It occurs when dopamine-producing neurons in the brain gradually deteriorate, leading to symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance issues. As the disease advances, individuals may experience non-motor symptoms, including depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive decline. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for families so they can recognize early warning signs and seek appropriate medical support.The Stages of Parkinsons DiseaseParkinsons progresses in five distinct stages, each presenting different challenges for caregivers:1.     Stage One (Mild Symptoms) Symptoms are mild and may only affect one side of the body. Daily activities remain largely unaffected.2.     Stage Two (Moderate Symptoms) Symptoms worsen, appearing on both sides of the body. Daily tasks become slightly more challenging.3.     Stage Three (Loss of Balance and Independence Challenges) Falls become more frequent, and daily activities require more effort.4.     Stage Four (Severe Mobility Limitations) Assistance is needed for most daily activities, and independent living becomes difficult.5.     Stage Five (Advanced Parkinsons) The individual may be bedridden or require a wheelchair, with round-the-clock care needed. Understanding these stages allows families to anticipate changes and proactively plan for caregiving needs. Emotional and Psychological Impact on FamiliesThe emotional toll of caregiving can be overwhelming, particularly for busy professionals juggling work and family responsibilities. Watching a once-independent parents who struggle with Parkinsons can evoke feelings of sadness, frustration, and guilt. Many caregivers also experience burnout due to the constant physical and emotional demands of caregiving. To manage these challenges, families should consider the following:         Seek Emotional Support Support groups for Parkinsons caregivers provide a space to share experiences and receive guidance.        Practice Self-Care Caregivers must prioritize their own well-being to sustain their ability to provide care.        Maintain Open Communication Honest conversations among family members can help in decision-making and stress management.The Role of Professional Caregiving ServicesAs the disease progresses, family caregivers often find themselves struggling to keep up with their loved ones increasing needs. Professional caregiving services like those offered by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas LLC provides expert assistance tailored to Parkinsons patients, ensuring they receive the highest level of care while allowing family members to focus on their own professional and personal lives. Some key benefits of professional caregiving include:      Personalized Care Plans Professional caregivers develop customized care strategies based on the individuals specific symptoms and progression.      Mobility Assistance Helping individuals move safely, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.      Medication Management Ensuring medications are taken correctly and on time.      Meal Preparation and Nutrition Support Creating Parkinsons-friendly meal plans to enhance overall well-being.      Companion Care Providing social interaction and engagement, reducing feelings of isolation.Available Medical Treatments and Therapies While there is no cure for Parkinsons, several treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:       Medications Dopamine-enhancing medications like Levodopa help alleviate motor symptoms.       Physical Therapy Helps improve balance, strength, and flexibility.       Speech Therapy Addresses difficulties with speaking and swallowing.       Occupational Therapy Helps individuals adapt to daily activities using assistive devices and modified techniques.       Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) A surgical procedure that can help reduce tremors and improve motor control. By incorporating these treatments into a care plan, families can improve their loved ones comfort and independence.Early Planning for a Smooth Caregiving JourneyOne of the biggest mistakes families make is waiting until a crisis occurs before seeking professional caregiving support. High-paying geriatric care clients, such as the busy professionals looking after aging parents, benefit greatly from early planning.Some key steps include:      Assessing Current and Future Needs Evaluating the stage of Parkinsons and determining what level of support is required.      Exploring Home Care Options Researching caregiving services that align with the familys values and expectations.      Financial and Legal Planning Consulting elder law attorneys and financial advisors to create a sustainable long-term care plan.      Designating a Care Coordinator Assigning a family member or professional to oversee caregiving arrangements and medical needs.By addressing these factors early, families can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure their loved ones receive seamless, high-quality care. Why Choose At Your Home Caregiving of Texas LLC?For professional families with aging parents, finding a trustworthy and compassionate caregiving service is essential. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing exceptional in-home care tailored to high-net-worth families. With a commitment to dignity, independence, and personalized attention, the agency offers:      Highly Trained Caregivers Experienced in Parkinsons care and advanced elder care techniques.      Flexible Care Plans Ranging from part-time assistance to full-time live-in care.      Seamless Communication Keeping family members informed and involved in caregiving decisions.      Commitment to Excellence Prioritizing client satisfaction and quality of life.Final ThoughtsParkinsons disease is a complex condition that requires a proactive and well-thought-out caregiving plan. By understanding the diseases progression, seeking the right support, and planning early, families can ensure their loved ones receive the best possible care while maintaining their own professional and personal balance.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas LLC stands ready to support families on this journey, offering specialized in-home care solutions that provide peace of mind and exceptional care for aging loved ones. This article serves as a comprehensive guide for families navigating the challenges of Parkinsons caregiving. Future articles in this series will dive deeper into specific aspects of caregiving, from hospital stays and rehabilitation to long-term care planning and caregiver well-being.