For more information about the author, click to view their website: Senior Care Authority Pittsburgh
We must never underestimate the power of touch, whether it's a gentle holding of the hand, massaging of feet, a warm hug, or gentle rubbing of the arm or back. Over the past year and a half, many have felt the absence of this important connection as they were separated from family and loved ones. Touch deprivation in old age is especially a reality for persons living with dementia, medically frail older adults, and seniors who live alone. We have all heard how touch deprivation can lead to or increase feelings of isolation, anxiety, and insecurity. In addition, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many older adults were observed to have declined in physical and mental health as they went for extended periods without in-person contact with those they love.
Research has shown that human contact and physical touch have been linked to improved outcomes for premature infants and can be just as beneficial to older adults living with dementia. Healing touch can decrease stress, anxiety, and pain in adults and children and support improved mobility in older adults. Despite an older adult’s need for touch and being so receptive to touch, they are often the least likely to receive healing or therapeutic touch from healthcare providers or family members.
Of course, there are trained, licensed practitioners of therapeutic touch working with patients who report feeling warmth, relaxation, and pain relief due to this type of intervention. Healing and therapeutic touch is widely used by nurses to reduce agitation in individuals with dementia in memory care facilities. Many studies have reported beneficial effects of this non-pharmacologic intervention for the treatment of behaviors seen in patients with Alzheimer’s. Therapeutic touch may improve quality of life by helping to decrease stress and anxiety to foster emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Some older adults with dementia display behavioral symptoms, such as vocal outbursts, restlessness, agitation, repetitive questions, wandering, pacing, and physical aggression toward self or others. Touch can be a therapeutic modality to treat these behavioral symptoms as well as create present-moment connection, physical contact, and comfort.
Touch therapy works by combatting the underlying causes of touch deprivation. Studies show that touch deprivation in the elderly and dementia patients may lead to a wide range of negative emotions such as:
In implementing the strategies of touch therapy, caregivers are introducing elements of compassion that are recognized by dementia patients and are known to create emotional benefits.
Aside from the potential positive effects on physical and behavioral symptoms, the fact is, there is just no replacement for human contact. Touch is one of our most basic, essential human needs that remains throughout our lifetime. As we experience physical or mental decline due to aging or illness, the need for human touch may be heightened as we seek comfort and connection with others.
So, offering a gentle hug, a touch on the shoulder, back, or arm, or reaching out to hold a hand, is not only a soothing, comforting way to connect with an aging parent or older adult, but it also lets them know they are seen and valued. And ultimately, isn’t that what we all want?
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.
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.
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.
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic is a dedicated, highly motivated professional who loves finding solutions to challenges. She has spent almost thirty years in the corporate and academic world doing just that.During her tenure in the corporate world, life changed drastically - her father passed, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers and she became a guardian to her sister, while at the same time dealing with a serious health issue herself. While learning to navigate the complex web of support services for her own family, she noticed her growing empathy for others needing to walk down the same road. Why not help them in their journey to make life as fulfilling as possible for their loved ones? She thought of no better way to move forward with her next chapter of work and giving back. She found Senior Care Authority could fulfill this desire for her.Caras education includes a BA in Business Administration, MS in Information Systems Management and a Doctorate in Information Systems and Communication. She has had robust training in Senior Care and has earned important certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Dementia Practitioner. She has a national team of professionals to support her as she helps you navigate your options for your loved one. Cara is anxious to put her experience and training as a new owner of Senior Care Authority to work for you and your family today! She cant wait to meet you! Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered, and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Kathy Thompson is the owner of Senior Care Authority for the Pittsburgh area of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. She became a Certified Senior Advisor to help families and seniors navigate the broad, confusing, and stressful decisions regarding senior living options. From her mothers fight with cancer, she has learned that life can change instantly. Her mission is to help families get the necessary resources and information they need in a timely fashion to be able to make the best educated decision for their elder parent or loved ones.Kathy understands that choosing the right senior care is a difficult decision, and she is here to help you every step of the way. Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.