Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinson’s Patients

 Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Care Recognizes Alzheimers and Brain Awareness MonthSeniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA in-home care underscores the importance of compassionate support for those living with Alzheimers and the families who care for them.  PITTSBURGH, PA June marks Alzheimers and Brain Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the more than 7 million Americans currently living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia a number projected to nearly double by 2050. In honor of this important month, Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA in-home care is raising awareness about the role compassionate in-home care can play in improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease. According to the 2024 Alzheimers Disease Facts and Figures report, nearly 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimers and other dementias. These caregivers often experience high levels of emotional, physical and financial stress. Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care offers relief through peer-based, non-medical services designed to help seniors remain safely and comfortably in their homes while easing the responsibilities placed on caregivers. Our mission is to provide support, dignity and companionship to seniors including those facing memory challenges, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA. By matching seniors who need care with active, compassionate older adults, we create a connection that enhances quality of life for both the caregiver and the care recipient. Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care provides flexible support with tasks such as meal preparation, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping and, perhaps most importantly, companionship a service that can be especially meaningful for those navigating memory loss. With new treatments for Alzheimers emerging and awareness on the rise, we believe its vital to offer families the support they need to navigate this journey, said Namrata Yocom-Jan, president of Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care. We are proud to be part of the care solution, providing personalized, respectful services that promote dignity and connection. ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS: Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system was founded by husband-and-wife duo Kiran and Philip Yocom. Kiran, who grew up in India, later worked to advance humanitarian efforts alongside Mother Teresa. After moving to the U.S. in 1995 and marrying her husband Philip, the Yocoms felt called to provide loving care to seniors and to cultivate an exchange of gifts at every generational level. Together, the Yocoms founded Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services in 1998, opening the brand up to franchising in 2006. With a mission to be the most respected and rewarding home care provider in the U.S., Seniors Helping Seniors locations stand apart from competitors as the only company that prioritizes hiring active seniors to provide care services to their less-active counterparts. Seniors Helping Seniors service aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors network has grown to 400 territories nationwide and over 200 franchise partners in 37 states. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit https://seniorshelpingseniors.com/.

Dont Wait: Why End-of-Life Conversations Cant Be Put Off According to an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine, two-thirds of Americans dont have a living will or advance directive. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and uncertainty for both seniors and their loved ones. A lot of people dont know what an advance directive is, says Lectoria Byron, a social worker with our Mobile, Alabama program. So, its giving them that knowledgeinforming them of exactly what it is and how it can help them. That eases a lot of anxiety. We sat down with Lectoria and Registered Nurse & Case Manager Amanda Albright to find out why these decisions matter and how the PACE care model fosters them. What is an advance directive and why does it matter? An advance directive is a legal document that explains what kind of medical care you want if you cant speak for yourself. It usually has two main parts: A living will, which says what treatments you do or dont want.A durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names someone you trust to make medical choices for you. Imagine for yourself, Amanda says. Someone you love deeply is in crisis because somethings happened to youand they cant find your funeral plans, your bank statements, or your healthcare wishes. They wont have time to grieve because theyre forced to focus on the paperwork and decisions that could have already been made. How does PACE help with these difficult conversations? Both Lectoria and Amanda emphasized education and pre-planning as the biggest ways their team offers support. Lectoria and the other care team members talk about advance directives during check-ins that happen twice a year. We break it up into manageable steps so its not overwhelming, Lectoria says. In Alabama, we have a basic form that requires two signatures and two witnesses, and we help guide participants through it. If a participant requires legal guardianship or their request involves filing documentation in court, we help connect them with resources like free legal aid, Lectoria adds. She said the best way to approach the conversation is to keep it simple. When you dont work directly with death or dying, its hard to know how to begin, Lectoria explains. But it doesnt take special training. You start by asking: Do you know what an advance directive is? A living will? A power of attorney? Then we offer information and ask: What are your wishes? PACE also provides brochures and other educational materials to help participants review their options in their own time. Checking in every six months ensures these decisions remain a priority. What is the advantage of a participant having their PACE team facilitate the conversation? The PACE team consists of a primary care physician, skilled nurse, social worker, physical therapist, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, and a chaplain.   Amanda explains, The team approach keeps any one staff member from carrying all the emotional weight. And the participant hears a consistent message from different perspectiveseach member offering their own short summary or advice. That consistency builds trust and understanding. It gives a lot of credibility, Amanda says. PACEs structure also allows for something rare in modern healthcare: time. Were not seeing 16 patients an hour, Amanda says. We have the privilege to slow down and help people understand. That makes all the difference. Planning ahead for your care isnt just about filling out formsits about showing love, respect, and helping everyone feel more at peace. At PACE, were here to support you and your family through every part of aging, even the tough conversations.  To find out more about Mercy LIFE and their innovative care program for Seniors, contact them at 251-287-8427.

Supporting Families on the Alzheimers Journey: Understanding, Compassion, and Help from Caring TransitionsAlzheimers disease touches millions of lives around the world. When a loved one is diagnosed, it can feel overwhelming not just for the individual, but for their entire family. The journey is filled with uncertainty, emotional ups and downs, and practical challenges. At Caring Transitions Twin Cities Central, we understand these struggles and are here to offer guidance, compassion, and support every step of the way.What is Alzheimers Disease?Alzheimers is a progressive neurological disease that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. In the early stages, a person may experience forgetfulness or confusion. Over time, tasks that once seemed simple like managing a household or carrying on a conversation can become difficult. Each persons journey is unique, and so is the way the disease progresses.Early detection can help families access medical treatments and support services, but receiving a diagnosis is never easy. It often raises more questions than answers and thats where education and community support play a critical role.Caring for a Loved One with AlzheimersCaring for someone with Alzheimers involves much more than meeting physical needs. It requires patience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the person behind the diagnosis.Simple adjustments can make a big difference: Create daily routines to offer a sense of stability. Communicate clearly and calmly. Modify the home environment to ensure safety and comfort. As the disease progresses, changes in behavior such as agitation, wandering, or withdrawal can be difficult for families. Its important to remember that these behaviors are symptoms of the disease, not a reflection of your loved ones feelings or character.The Emotional Impact on FamiliesAlzheimers doesnt just affect the person diagnosed; it impacts the entire family. Caregivers often experience a range of emotions sadness, frustration, guilt, and even grief for the person their loved one used to be. Its crucial for caregivers to acknowledge these feelings and seek support for themselves.Support groups, counseling, and respite care can provide much-needed relief and a sense of community. No one should have to navigate this journey alone.How Caring Transitions Can HelpAt Caring Transitions Twin Cities Central, we specialize in helping families manage some of the most overwhelming aspects of caring for a loved one with Alzheimers. When its time to downsize, declutter, or relocate, these tasks can feel emotionally and physically exhausting. Our team provides compassionate, professional assistance handling everything with care, patience, and respect.Whether youre preparing a safer living space, transitioning to a memory care community, or organizing a family estate, were here to help lighten the load.You Are Not AloneAbove all, remember: you are not alone. Countless resources and communities are ready to support you, including national organizations like the Alzheimers Association and Alzheimers Foundation of America, as well as local groups and online forums. And when you need hands-on help with lifes practical transitions, Caring Transitions Twin Cities Central is just a phone call away. Were honored to walk this path with you with understanding, compassion, and care.  We can be reached at 651-504-4040 or visit our website at www.caringtransitionstccentral.com