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Assisted Living Locators - Greater Pittsburgh

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Apr 07, 2023

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Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

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Holiday Visits: A Perfect Time to Check on Aging Loved Ones

Whether you're traveling from across the street or across the country, holiday gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to assess the well-being of your aging family members. These festive occasions, filled with dinners, gift exchanges, and parties, offer a natural setting to observe any changes in behavior or lifestyle that may have occurred since your last visit.Changes in an elderly relative's condition can range from obvious to subtle. To help you gauge their current physical and mental state, we've compiled a comprehensive list of areas to observe and questions to consider during your time together.EnvironmentThe condition of your loved one's living space can offer valuable insights into their ability to maintain their home and overall well-being. Look for the following:Signs of damage or disrepair in and around the houseAccumulation of trash or clutterBurned-out light bulbs left unchangedDecline in cleanliness, particularly in the kitchen and bathroomUnopened mail piling upItems stored in unusual or potentially hazardous locationsDamage to their vehicle, such as unexplained scratches or dentsThese observations can indicate difficulties with home maintenance, mobility, or cognitive function.Food and NutritionProper nutrition is crucial for seniors. During your visit, pay attention to:The quantity and quality of food in the refrigerator and pantryPresence of expired or spoiled food itemsSigns of weight loss or malnutritionIndications that meals are being skipped or forgottenPoor nutrition can significantly impact an elderly person's health and may signal the need for additional support.Mood and BehaviorChanges in mood or behavior can be early indicators of cognitive decline or other health issues. Watch for:Withdrawal from social activities or abandonment of once-enjoyed hobbiesNew friendships or organizational affiliations, especially those involving frequent contact or requests for donationsIncreased confusion or repetition in conversationsSigns of irritability, apathy, or sadnessGeneral withdrawal or changes in typical demeanorThese behavioral shifts may warrant further investigation or professional assessment.Personal HygienePersonal care habits can provide valuable clues about an individual's physical and mental state. Look for:Decline in overall grooming and appearanceWearing dirty clothes or not changing clothes regularlySkipping showers or bathsBruises or injuries that might indicate falls or accidentsPoor hygiene can be a sign of physical limitations, depression, or cognitive impairment.Financial ManagementWhile not always easy to observe, changes in financial management can be crucial indicators of cognitive decline or potential exploitation. If possible, discreetly assess:Bill payment habits and any signs of financial distressUnusual or large purchasesUnfamiliar names on financial documentsSudden changes in banking habits or account managementFinancial mismanagement can have serious consequences and may require prompt intervention.Medication ManagementFor seniors taking multiple medications, proper management is essential. Observe:Organization of medicationsPresence of expired prescriptionsSigns of missed doses or confusion about medication schedulesMedication errors can lead to serious health complications and may indicate the need for additional support.Social ConnectionsMaintaining social connections is vital for seniors' mental and emotional well-being. Take note of:Frequency and quality of interactions with friends and neighborsParticipation in community activities or religious servicesUse of technology to stay connected with family and friendsSocial isolation can contribute to depression and cognitive decline in older adults.Remember, this list is not exhaustive but serves as a guide to help you check in on your aging loved ones. By observing these areas and initiating conversations early, you can identify potential issues and provide timely support. If you notice concerning changes, consider consulting with healthcare professionals or senior care experts for guidance.The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your elderly relatives. Use this time to observe, listen, and engage meaningfully. Your attentiveness can make a significant difference in ensuring their continued well-being and quality of life.Aging Life Care Managers are an excellent resource for support. Working with families, an Aging Life Care Manager is a strategic planner offering options and solutions that best fit a persons individual needs and resources. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress, and time away from work for family caregivers.

Caregiver Guide: Dos and Donts for Engaging Loved Ones with Cognitive Decline

Caring for an older adult with cognitive difficulties, such as dementia or Alzheimers disease, requires patience, empathy, and a thoughtful approach to daily activities. As our loved ones with dementia might have communication challenges, we become more attuned to observing body language and facial expressions. The right activities can provide a sense of purpose, stimulate memory, and improve overall well-being. However, choosing the wrong activities can lead to frustration or confusion. This guide offers practical advice on the dos and donts of engaging loved ones with cognitive decline.Do:        Simplify tasks and break them down into smaller steps.For example, if your loved one enjoyed cooking, involve them in simple tasks like stirring ingredients or setting the table. This allows them to participate without feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the activity.Familiar rote tasks can provide a sense of purpose and success i.e.: folding towels or setting the table.Dont:        Set up for failureAvoid setting high expectations for perfection or completion of tasks. The goal is engagement, not mastery. If your loved one loses interest or struggles with a task, its okay to move on to something else without pressure. Try active listening techniques.Do:        Promote social interactionEngage in activities that foster social interaction, like looking through old photo albums, reminiscing about the past, or participating in small group activities. Social engagement is crucial for older adults as it helps combat feelings of isolation and keeps their minds active. Offer prompting open-ended questions to encourage engagement. Consider looking for a local Adult Day Center near you that might offer activities and social interaction.Dont:        Overwhelm with large gatheringsAvoid large social gatherings or unfamiliar environments that could cause sensory overload or anxiety. Instead, keep interactions small and personal, with familiar faces and settings to provide a sense of security and comfort.Do:        Watch television: many of us utilize television for entertainment but it can often become the primary source of structure and activity for the day.Watching cooking shows can be good if you are looking to improve appetite but can also cause overeating.Watching nature programs with positive content is engaging, however cycle-of-life or aggressive programming (like natural disasters) can produce anxiety. Baby animal shows can be a particular favorite as there is no plot to follow.Watching beloved shows can be nostalgic and comforting, and comedy skit shows also have no plot to follow.Consider what types of programs are watched at different times of day something with no speaking and just photography is good for resting, and sports might spark a desire for more activity.Dont:        Allow TV to cause anxiety or be a substitute for activity or personal interactionWatching the news can be distressing for some and cause anxietyConfrontational talk show formats can be confusing and angry participants may display unwanted behaviors.Sitting in front of the TV all day isnt good for anyone, and this is not engaging in socialization or cognitive stimulation.Do:        Incorporate music and artUse music and art as therapeutic tools. Older adults with cognitive difficulties often respond well to music from their youth or simple art activities like coloring or painting. These activities can stimulate the senses and provide a creative outlet, even for those with advanced cognitive impairment.Dont:        Use Activities that require complex decision-makingAvoid activities that require complex decision-making or too many choices. This can be overwhelming and may lead to frustration. Instead, offer simple, clear options that allow for easy participation. Offer a choice between two things such as menu items or daily clothing choices.Do:        Accept help when caregiving becomes overwhelming.Consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager.  An Aging Life Care Manager can provide expert guidance, help coordinate care, and offer support in making decisions for your loved one.  Dont:        Set your expectations too high or schedule too full.Try to go with the flow and understand things might not go exactly as planned and thats okay. Schedule in extra time for activities or to get to appointments. If you feel frustrated, step away, regain composure (your loved one if not being difficult on purpose) and try again with a new energy. Read tips on how to deal with caregiver stress.As you consider what activity choices to offer your loved one, consider variety and time of day. Include exercise and socialization, as well as hygiene and rest. Modify, modify, modify. If they seem overwhelmed with an activity, try simplifying to a point they can successfully engage. For example: a puzzle with fewer and larger pieces, simple matching games, and activities to stimulate fine motor skills. Remember not to infantilize your loved one, but rather adjust to their needs. Be mindful of your loved ones response to an activity and be flexible with both them and yourself.

Signs That An Aging Parent Needs Help

As our parents age, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of signs that they may need additional support. While many older adults fiercely value their independence, there are often subtle indicators that assistance is necessary to ensure their safety, health, and overall well-being.Key Signs Your Aging Parent Needs Help:Changes in Physical Appearance and HygieneA noticeable decline in personal grooming habits or hygiene can be a red flag. This may include wearing soiled clothing, infrequent bathing, or neglecting oral care. Significant weight changes, either gain or loss, can also indicate difficulties with meal preparation or underlying health issues.Household Management IssuesKeep an eye out for:Expired food in the refrigerator or a strong odor in the kitchenPiling up of mail, especially unpaid billsCluttered or disorganized living spacesNeglected home maintenance, both interior and exteriorMedication MismanagementDifficulties with medication can have serious consequences. Watch for:Confusion about dosages or schedulesUnopened pill bottles or untouched medication boxesMedications spilled on the floorCognitive and Emotional ChangesBe alert to:Increased forgetfulness or confusionChanges in mood or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activitiesSigns of loneliness or social isolation Mobility and Safety ConcernsLook out for:Unexplained bruising or injuriesDifficulty with walking, balance, or getting up from seated positionsNew scratches or dents on the car, indicating potential driving issuesTaking ActionIf you notice one or more of these signs, it's time to have a conversation with your parent. Approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for their desire for independence. Involving other family members can help facilitate discussions and decision-making.Remember that early intervention can prevent crises and ensure your parent receives the appropriate level of care. This might involve exploring options such as in-home assistance, meal delivery services, or senior living communities that can provide the necessary support while maintaining as much independence as possible.By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your aging parent navigate this new phase of life with dignity and ensure their needs are met in a way that respects their wishes and preserves their quality of life.If you notice just one of these happening with your parent, it is time to have a conversation. If you need help starting that conversation or implementing a plan of care, consider working with an Aging Life Care Professional. Aging Life Care Professionals understand the frustration felt by adult children and the desperation felt by older adults who want to hold on to their independence. With an objective perspective on the situation, we can help facilitate difficult family discussions and decision-making to address these and other concerns.

Local Services By This Author

Assisted Living Locators - Greater Pittsburgh Area

Housing Placement & Resource Specialists 1419 Macon Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15238

Hello, I am Jennifer Thayer.  Exploring senior living options can be confusing and timeconsuming. Assisted Living Locators Care Advisors are in your community and work closely with you to guide you through the process from beginning to endanswering your questions and addressing your concerns, helping you feel confident and comfortable with your decisions. As a native of Pittsburgh with expertise in nursing as well as senior living options, I will provide a hands-on approach that is unique to your needs. I will guide you & your family through the entire complex, time consuming, and sometimes overwhelming process of senior care. We will discuss your needs, visit communities together, and I answer all of your questions about care options and cost. Beyond move-in day at your community, I will continue to visit and advocate for your well-being. I will make sure your community is meeting all of your needs & providing you with excellent care. I have been a Registered Nurse for 15 years, providing care, guidance and compassion for people in the Pittsburgh area as well as nationally.  In addition to my nursing degree, I also have a bachelors degree in Psychology.  My Psychology degree combined with my work/volunteer experience in the field as equipped me to deal with the diverse mental and emotional needs of others.  Helping others has always been a passion of mine.  Our seniors are overlooked too often and this is why I have been inspired to pay it forward and to assist seniors with their next chapter in life. You and your family will have a personal Senior Care Advisor free of charge assisting you through the entire process. As a Registered Nurse I have a network of reputable, trusted communities and providers throughout the Pittsburgh area that share one common goal: providing excellent care while showing compassion. I will listen to you and address your concerns and needs. I will make sure care options and cost are appropriate. I will be available to you and your family every step of the way even after you are settled into your new home. You never need to worry about getting a one size fits all solution. Instead, you can rest assured that the communities and homes we recommend have been pre-screened and personally matched to your loved ones needs.Unbiased solutions at no cost to you.My only obligation is to you and making sure that we help you find the best solution for your needs. You can depend on me to make finding care as simple and quick as possible.I am ready to help you:- Simplify your search- Understand the options- Compare costs and services- Provide unbiased, personal, and expert guidance- Make the best senior care choice for your loved oneOur Free Senior Living Services:Our care advisors take a 4-step approach to guiding you through the process of finding the best senior living option for your family.In-Depth Assessment of Your NeedsDiscuss your needs (in-person or by phone) to learn how we can best serve you.Thoughtful Analysis & RecommendationsProvide a customized plan to match your particular needs.Assistance with Selection ProcessHands-on help and guidance as you review services and amenities, and tour care options.Transition SupportCaring support to make the move smooth and worry free, as well as follow up support to make sure that your expectations are being met by the community or home.What to Expect When You Call UsWe want to learn as much as we can We dig deep with you to really understand what your family needs both for a new living situation and for other support services.Our Individualized AssessmentAn Assisted Living Locators care advisor will meet with you and your family to discuss available and appropriate options. We evaluate all aspects of your senior situation to find the right match, whether its health care needs, religious and political affiliations, mobility requirements, budgets, desired social activities, locations, or the 1001 ways that make your senior unique.We Are Your Comprehensive GuideWe are committed to being compassionate and concerned with the needs of our clients. We are your comprehensive guide to matching the care you desire with the living options in your community. The facilities in our network reimburse for our services so that we can remain at no cost to you.Finding the Care that is Right for Your FamilyWhen we evaluate a senior living facility, we examine not only the amenities, but also the special features and characteristics. After we verify the services you need are met by the community, we consider the unique aspects that will make the difference in selecting a home best suited for your loved one.Im here, ready to help.  Give me a call today!