Supporting a Loved One with Diabetic Neuropathy See our latest Blog post:Caring for a loved one with diabetic neuropathy can feel overwhelming, especially as you see them struggle with discomfort and daily challenges. This condition, caused by nerve damage from diabetes, often leads to pain, numbness, and balance issues that complicate everyday tasks. The care experts at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care understand that gaining insight into a loved ones experience and learning how to provide effective support can significantly enhance their quality of life. (See post for more)If you, a family member or friend need a little extra care, and still want to live at home -- We can help with Home Health Care Services --We refer qualified and compassionate home health care providers that have been thoroughly screened to support our goal of making living and aging at home safe, comfortable and affordable. Referred Care Providers are available on an hourly, daily, weekly, or live-in basis.Care Providers: Register and take an important step towards taking control of your career! Case opportunities include days, evenings, nights and extended care shifts. We register companions, Home Health Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, Nurses and LPN's. https://www.americaninhomecare.com

As we age, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. One way to do this is by walking more. In fact, research suggests that taking just 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health.Health Benefits of WalkingWalking is a low-impact form of exercise that can have numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.The Benefits of 500 Extra StepsTaking just 500 extra steps per day may not seem like much, but it can have a significant impact on senior health. Research suggests that taking an extra 500 steps per day can lead to a decrease in the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, it can lead to improved mental health, better sleep, and increased energy levels.A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that for people ages 70 and older who walked an additional 500 steps per day, or an additional quarter mile of walking, experienced a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Also, compared to adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day, adults who took about 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower observed risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.Strategies for Walking MoreTaking an extra 500 steps per day may sound like a daunting task, but there are many strategies that can help seniors achieve this goal. Here are a few tips: Take multiple short walks throughout the day: This can help add up to 500 extra steps without requiring a lot of time commitment. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Tracking steps can help seniors stay motivated and monitor their progress. Find a walking partner: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and provide social interaction. Set achievable goals: Start small and gradually increase the number of steps taken each day. Choose scenic routes: Walking in a park or nature trail can make it more enjoyable and provide additional health benefits. In conclusion, taking 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health, and its an achievable goal for most people. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic conditions, and improve mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating walking into their daily routine, seniors can help maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.Senior LIFE can help you with your goalsAt Senior LIFE, our goals align with the goals of many seniors to stay in the comfort of their homes, and out of a nursing home. We work with seniors and their caregivers to help seniors maintain independence by providing medical and supportive services including physician and nursing services, medication management, in-home care, and so more more! For a full list of services, please visit us online at: Senior LIFE ServicesSenior LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is state and federally funded Medicare and Medicaid Program that provides long-term care for seniors, 55 years of age or older, so that they can remain living at home and out of a nursing facility.Senior LIFE Services are provided at NO COST to those on Medicaid who live in the community.To speak with a Senior LIFE representative about the program, and to learn if you or a family member may be eligible, please contact us via our website or email us at info@SeniorLIFEPA.com  

Protecting Your Loved Ones Independence and Well-Being at HomeHelping a family member remain independent and living at home is a labor of love, but at times it can be overwhelming. There is so much to consider beyond just their overall health and well-being. Depending on the situation, a loved one may need immediate or future help coordinating medical care or managing finances. Having the proper Power of Attorney credentials established can help caregivers navigate the complexities of the system and avoid costly or time-consuming pitfalls during their loved ones aging journey.Here is a basic overview of two of the most common Power of Attorney documents:Financial Power of Attorney (Durable)With a Financial Power of Attorney (POA), a person known as the principal appoints an agent to carry out financial and other activities, as instructed by the principal. Often the person designated is a family member but note that it may be advisable to name a primary agent and an alternate agent. Principals may choose whether the POA becomes effective immediately or only in the event of illness/disability. Ideally, the POA document should have language indicating that it is durable (remains in effect even after the person is legally incapacitated). In Pennsylvania, the Financial POA must be notarized and witnessed. The law also stipulates that a POA must exercise the powers for the benefit of the principal, keep the assets of the principal separate from their own, and exercise reasonable caution and prudence. Financial Power of Attorney ceases after the principal passes away.Medical Power of AttorneyPennsylvania recognizes two types of advanced directives for healthcare decisions: Medical Power of Attorney and Living Wills. The Medical Power of Attorney, also known as a Healthcare POA or healthcare proxy, is broader in scope than a Living Will in that it empowers the caregiver to make all medical decisions if their loved one is unconscious, incapacitated, or mentally incompetent. The appointed person will be able to access medical records, speak to healthcare professionals, and make healthcare judgments and medical decisions based on their loved ones treatment (or non-treatment) preferences. A Medical POA is a crucial component of advance care planning, allowing your loved one to ensure that their healthcare preferences are honored. The document must have two witnesses and be notarized.Information and downloadable Power of Attorney pdf documents are available online. During the application process to Senior LIFE, a Senior LIFE outreach coordinator can also help you get started with the POA process. Contact us today.