The Two Sides of Stress: Embracing the Good and Managing the Bad

How We Help Veterans Age with Dignity and RespectTransitioning from military to civilian life can be a complex journey for veterans, filled with various challenges. Many face difficulties such as adapting to new social environments, managing mental health issues, and navigating healthcare systems. Understanding these needs is crucial for providing the right support, and that's where Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder steps in. Our team is dedicated to serving those who have bravely served our country.Veterans often experience unique struggles, including health concerns and emotional challenges stemming from their service. Whether it's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), physical injuries, or difficulty adjusting to civilian life, these veterans require understanding and compassion. We believe that dignity and respect are fundamental in veteran care. Our team is committed to fostering an environment where veterans feel valued and supported as they navigate this new chapter of their lives.Our Veteran Care ServicesTo meet the diverse needs of veterans, Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder provides a range of specialized home care services. From personal assistance with daily activities to medication administration and more, our veteran care services are designed to address both physical and mental health needs. Understanding that each veteran's experience is different, our caregivers work closely with clients to ensure they receive tailored support that promotes their overall well-being.We recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach doesnt work for veterans. Thats why we develop personalized care plans that cater to the individual needs of each veteran we assist. Our caregivers take the time to understand their clients' specific circumstances and preferences, creating customized solutions that can include anything from assistance with household tasks to companionship during social outings.Support for Families of VeteransThe transition to civilian life affects not only veterans but their families as well. We provide essential support to veterans' families during this challenging period. We offer resources and guidance to help family members understand the challenges their loved one's face and how best to support them. Our network includes connections to various support groups, counseling services, and educational resources that can help families navigate this journey together.Why Choose Us?When it comes to choosing care services, veterans have options, but Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder stands out with our commitment to quality and compassion. Our professional caregivers are trained to provide not just physical care but also emotional support, creating a holistic approach to wellness. We encourage families to contact us online or call (844) 908-3819 today and schedule a consultation call with our team.The journey from military to civilian life is filled with challenges, but with the right support and care, veterans can thrive. We're honored to serve those who have served us. Let us partner with you in this journey, providing the compassionate care and support that every veteran deserves.

A Parkinsons diagnosis is a life-changing event it changes daily routines, long-term plans and can often become a job in itself to navigate, but still, it is manageable. According to the Parkinsons Foundation, nearly one million Americans are currently living with the diagnosis, and as many of them can attest, its entirely possible to live full, happy, healthy lives. While there are some extra hoops to jump through when dealing with a Parkinsons diagnosis, family caregivers play an important role, especially when understanding how to care for someone with Parkinsons disease.Below are some key takeaways to guide you in supporting a loved one living with Parkinsons.Offering Emotional SupportBefore you offer hands-on assistance, offer emotional support and use your loved ones feelings to gauge how much theyd like to be helped. Encourage, dont nag. Instill confidence in your loved one by encouraging them to continue their everyday routine post-diagnosis, but dont pester them to do tasks that they feel averse to.  Be observant, but not overbearing. Its okay to watch and see how independent your loved one can be, but dont jump straight in and take control of their daily lives.  Embrace and normalize the diagnosis. Nearly one million other Americans are dealing with similar circumstances. Remind your loved one that they arent alone.  Offering Physical SupportThe level of physical help that you should offer is going to be an evolving fine line. Its vital that you dont let a loved one feel robbed of their independence, but its also important that they receive the physical help they need. Start small with: Involving the person in your daily tasks. Invite them to come visit, go on car rides, come grocery shopping, or even just watch TV.  Gently encouraging everyday exercise. Try to find hobbies that can keep them on their feet without making it feel like a doctors prescription. Try gardening, daily walks or light workouts like swimming or yoga.  Managing a healthy diet. Dont overlook what your loved one is putting into their body. Suggest balanced meals with plenty of calcium to combat fragile bones, fiber to minimize constipation and other necessary nutrients.  As symptoms progress, your assistance will likely evolve to tasks such as: Helping with household chores. It may fall on you to keep the house in order with things like cooking, cleaning or staying on top of laundry. If you notice the house in disarray, act without being asked. Eliminate tripping hazards and move furniture to allow for easy access.  Helping with grooming and dressing. Your loved one will likely need help with things like getting in and out of bed, getting in and out of the shower, and putting on certain pieces of clothing. To minimize how much help youll need to offer, consider clothes with Velcro or elastic waistbands, buy shower stools, and keep in mind that stand-in showers are much easier to navigate.  Offering Mental SupportWhile most mental impairments related to Parkinsons dont manifest until later in the diagnosis, the earlier stages still come with plenty of considerations that can leave your loved one feeling burnt out or mentally exhausted. You can help to manage this by:Reminding them of medications. Its difficult to memorize a new routine, especially when it involves specific dosages and administration times. Gently remind or ask if theyre on top of their medication. Offer to create a calendar for administration times on their phone or make a note somewhere in the house, but again, dont be too overbearing.Attending their doctors appointments. Not only will your loved ones appreciate you getting them to the doctor, but theyll also be thankful for the mental load that your presence can alleviate. You can be an extra set of ears to note what the doctor says, and you can relay this information if your loved one forgets later on. Note the progression of their symptoms. If you notice a new symptom for the first time, write it down. This can provide a concrete timeline for you and your loved ones care team to work with.  

A transfer refers to the process of moving a person with mobility issues from one place to another. Sometimes the terms bedridden or bedbound describe people who stay in bed due to illness or injury.Despite the terms, its critical for people to change positions and even get out of bed regularly to prevent blood clots and bed sores that can result from a lack of movement and blood flow.Proper transfers are not just a routine caregiving task, but a lifeline for people who spend a lot of time in bed. They play a pivotal role in maintaining health, comfort, and dignity. Whether youre a family or a professional caregiver, follow these tips for safe and effective transfers:Maximize ComfortTransfers can cause pain or discomfort in patients so use extra pillows to cushion the person. Take the time to communicate with the person and ensure theyre comfortable.Using any sudden, forceful movements can put someone at risk for injury, so take it slow. If the person can bear some of their weight, let them. If necessary, ask another person for help to avoid potential injuries.Use Proper FormIts important to protect your lower back by using proper form. Keep your back, head, and chest up straight, your stance wide, and your knees bent, careful not to stretch your back or turn your waist. Lift the person with your legs and not your back. Doing this minimizes any injury risk for you or the client during the process.Its helpful for the person being transferred to have their arms crossed over their chest to avoid having an arm trapped underneath them when placed somewhere else. Avoid having the person hold on to you or your neck, as this will add weight. It could even lead to a possible neck or back injury.Determining the Right Device to UseMany transfer devices can be used to help make transferring someone from bed to chair much easier. You can use slide boards, slide sheets, hoists, and transfer belts. Consult a healthcare provider to determine what device is best to use.SYNERGY HomeCare has partnered with BeasyTrans Systems, which makes premium gliding transfer boards to provide a much smoother and more comfortable experience for the patient. These specialized no-lift transfer boards give both patients and caregivers peace of mind as they dont have to worry about the potential injuries that often occur with tugging, twisting, and lifting with other assistive devices.For more information on how to care for your loved one who has limited mobility, please check out SYNERGY HomeCares all-in-one resource for disability care, A Family Guide to Understanding & Supporting Adults with Disabilities. To find out how to get your own BeasyTrans Transfer board, please call 877-432-2692.