Overcoming Barriers to Respite

At Amada Senior Care, we are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of our clients, especially when it comes to preserving senior independence, and this includes preventive care. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to emphasize the importance of annual health screenings and checkups. Today being Mammogram Day provides a particularly appropriate opportunity to heighten awareness of a significant screening for women to protect their health as they age.Why Mammograms MatterBreast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide; in fact, women in the U.S. have a 1-in-8 chance of developing breast cancer. Public awareness campaigns point to the fact that early detection can make all the difference. Regular mammograms help identify abnormalities in the breast tissue long before they can be felt during a self-exam. Early-stage detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, with survival rates as high as 99% when breast cancer is caught in its initial stages.For older women, especially women over the age of 50, mammograms become an even more critical part of their healthcare routine. Age is a significant risk factor for breast cancer, and while it can occur at any age, the risk increases as women grow older. Its estimated that about two out of three invasive breast cancers are discovered in women 55 or older. This is because as we age, there are more opportunities for genetic damage or mutations to occur in the body at a phase when the human body typically is less capable of repairing genetic damage.While breast cancer is associated with womens health, men also can be diagnosed with and experience symptoms like those in women. Family history of breast cancer or other genetic factors, exposure to radiation in the chest area, or having liver disease or another condition that causes estrogen levels to rise in the body all are risk factors for male breast cancer.Check out the images below to learn more about how to conduct a breast self-exam.Benefits of Regular MammogramsEarly Cancer Detection Saves LivesThe earlier breast cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available, and the better the outcomes. Mammograms can find cancer up to three years before it is large enough to be felt, offering a greater chance for less aggressive treatment.Peace of Mind in Protecting Senior HealthA mammogram is a quick procedure, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing youre actively monitoring your health is immeasurable. Regular screenings help older adults and seniors feel more secure and proactive in managing their well-being.Guided Preventive Care in Aging WellMammograms are often the first step in a broader breast health plan. For seniors, keeping up with these appointments ensures continuity of care, allowing their healthcare providers to monitor any changes and take action if necessary.Overcoming Common Concerns of MammogramsCommon concerns include fear of discomfort or radiation exposure. However, modern technology has made mammograms more comfortable, and the amount of radiation is minimalno more than a dental x-ray or flying cross-country.How Amada Can Help with Protecting Senior HealthAs seniors age, they may become concerned about mobility or getting to and from appointments. A free care needs consultation with an Amada Senior Care advisor can help identify specific assistance you or a loved one require, whether its transportation to screening facilities, compassionate caregiving services at home, or emotional comfort before and after a procedure.As a provider of non-medical at-home care, we at Amada are committed to making senior preventive healthcare as accessible and stress-free as possible. We can help with:Appointment Scheduling: Well help book your mammogram and any necessary follow-up appointments with ease.Transportation Assistance: If you need help getting to the clinic, our caregivers can provide transportation or accompany you to ensure you feel supported.Personalized Health Plans: Amadas caregivers are trained to help our senior clients manage symptoms of various health conditions. Our care team professionals understand the importance of following your doctors instructions and ensure they are included in your personalized care plan, tailored to your specific needs.Regular Screenings Lead to Improved Health in AgingIf you or a loved one havent had a mammogram in over a year, now is the perfect time to talk to your healthcare professional to schedule one. Encourage the women in your life, especially those in their 50s and older, not to skip their annual health screenings.Let's celebrate the power of early detection and honor our commitment to protecting the health of the women (and men) we care for.

As our loved ones age, there comes a time when maintaining a clean and organized space can become a challenge. The clutter that accumulates can not only create a chaotic environment but can also hinder the quality of life for seniors. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we understand that an organized home is not just about aesthetics; its about promoting peace, purpose, and independence in the lives of our clients. In this blog, we will explore how a well-organized senior home can lead to emotional well-being while providing you with practical tips to help foster a harmonious living space.The Emotional Impact of ClutterClutter can have a significant emotional toll on seniors. Over time, accumulated belongings can create feelings of overwhelm, stress, and anxiety. This chaos can impact the mental health of our senior loved ones, making it difficult for them to enjoy their daily activities and connection with family and friends. Studies have shown that an organized environment can lead to decreased stress levels, improved focus, and even enhanced creativity.When we work with seniors, our approach isnt just about organizing their physical space; we strive to create an atmosphere that supports emotional and psychological well-being. By helping them declutter their homes, we also assist in decluttering their minds, enabling them to experience clarity and tranquility. The emotional journey of downsizing and organizing can be transformative. Heres how to guide your senior loved ones through this process.Tip 1: Start Small and Celebrate ProgressWhen faced with the task of organizing an entire home, starting small can make all the difference. Encourage your loved one to begin with a single room or a specific area, like a closet or a kitchen drawer. This manageable approach prevents feelings of being overwhelmed and allows for small victories.Celebrate each milestonewhether its clearing out a single shelf or a full closet. Acknowledging these achievements not only boosts confidence but also encourages a sense of accomplishment. Use phrases like, "Look at how much weve organized together! Imagine how good it will feel to have everything in its place. These small celebrations create emotional connections and reinforce positive behavior.Finding Purpose in Letting GoAnother critical element in the organizing process is teaching seniors that letting go of items can indeed be a nurturing act. We often hold onto possessions due to nostalgia, guilt, or fear of loss. However, by transforming the mindset around these cherished items, we can unlock the potential for a serene and purposeful life.Tip 2: Relate Memories to PurposeInstead of keeping every item associated with a memory, encourage your loved one to select a few meaningful pieces to keep while letting go of the rest. This helps them maintain the emotional connection to their past without being burdened by physical items.For instance, photographs can be digitized, and sentimental items can be displayed in a memory box. Remind them that the value of a memory does not diminish when the physical item is no longer present. Create an emotional dialogue, asking questions like, What will best represent these memories? This will help them find peace and purpose in what they choose to keep.Involve FamilyInvolving family members during this organizing journey can strengthen connections. Invite family to share in the decluttering process, helping seniors reminisce over cherished memories. This not only alleviates the emotional load but also fosters deeper connections among family members. Encourage family to come equipped with boxes for donations, which can bring joy and purpose in knowing that items will benefit others. Ultimately, decluttering is not only about creating physical space; it is about making room for new memories, experiences, and emotional health. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we are committed to supporting the loved ones who matter most. By providing personalized organizational services, we allow seniors to thrive in environments that reflect their current lives and cherish their past without the weight of clutter.In conclusion, an organized home can significantly enhance the emotional well-being of seniors. By understanding the emotional connections tied to their belongings and providing practical steps, we can help them find peace and purpose in their living spaces. Remember that a transformed environment is an emotional journeyfilled with joy, support, and love. A Call to Order Professional Organizers is here to stand by you and your loved ones in this vital process, ensuring that every step taken leads to a happier, healthier, and more organized life. Lets embark on this journey together and create spaces that foster connection and comfort. The best time to start is now!

The aging process often begins subtly, with gradual changes that seem manageable. One day, your parent is fully independent, taking care of daily tasks without issue. Then, suddenly, it feels as though the aging process accelerates, bringing new challenges all at once. This rapid shift can be difficult for family members, especially if they haven't planned ahead.Why Aging Can Seem to Happen SuddenlyWhile aging typically unfolds slowly, research suggests it doesnt always progress in a straight line. A study published in Nature Aging found that aging tends to occur in bursts, where rapid changes in areas like metabolism, immune health, and muscle strength happen. These bursts often occur around the age of 60, potentially leading to abrupt physical declines (SciTech Daily)(AARP).If you or your loved one wait too long to prepare, you may find yourselves scrambling to deal with the sudden onset of new health challenges. This lack of preparation often leaves caregivers feeling overwhelmed, under-equipped, and burned out.The Pitfalls of Delaying PreparationMany families delay planning for their parents aging, assuming they'll manage when the time comes. Others might avoid the topic altogether because it can be emotionally challenging to discuss. Unfortunately, this wait-and-see approach often leads to caregiver burnout and strained relationships, as families are forced to juggle urgent medical needs, emotional stress, and time-consuming responsibilities without a solid plan in place.If youre struggling to discuss getting help with your aging parent, check out some of our tips here. Remember, asking for assistance during the aging process doesnt mean youre powerless!How Naborforce Can Help You Plan AheadRather than waiting for a health crisis, Naborforce provides consistent support for families throughout the aging journey. As seniors age, they often need help with simple taskslike grocery shopping or getting to appointmentsthat can quickly become time-consuming for loved ones. With Naborforce, you can arrange for a friendly Nabor to assist, allowing your parent to stay independent longer while giving you peace of mind.By building a relationship with Naborforce early, your parent will already be accustomed to receiving help. When aging accelerates, youll have a reliable support system in placesomeone familiar with your parent who can step in to help with everyday tasks. This helps ease your parents transition while giving you the time and space to focus on your own responsibilities.The Importance of Having a PlanThe key to supporting your parent as they age is to start planning before their needs become urgent. With Naborforce, you can establish a flexible plan that evolves as your parents needs change. Whether its an occasional visit or regular check-ins, Naborforce can tailor its services to fit your schedule and your parents preferences. By starting early, you ensure that you and your parent have the right support in place before bigger challenges arise.Naborforce is just one of many resources available to help with the aging process. Other tools include financial planning, setting up a trust and estate plan, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using technology designed for senior living, and understanding the care continuum.Getting Started with NaborforceIts easy to get started with Naborforce. You can customize the level of support you need, from occasional assistance to more regular visits. Take the proactive step of setting up care before it becomes urgent, so your parent can stay comfortable, independent, and supported as they age.A Helping Hand for Older Adults - Naborforce 844-696-2267 Were Naborforce. We match older adults who need a little help and kindness with Nabors eager to provide it, strengthening the communities we serve.Everyone can use a little help. Help around the house. Help running errands. Help preparing a meal. Help by just being a friend! Our goal is to promote joyous and independent aging and living while providing peace of mind to families.