There's an App for That
ComForCare Home Care NW Pittsburgh
For more information about the author, click to view their website: ComForCare Home Care NW Pittsburgh
Apr 11, 2024
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
Spotify — This company has created a virtual music library that you can personalize to your specifications; 70s rock ‘n’ roll, anyone? You have the ability to save songs to your library, make playlists and listen to Spotify’s premade playlists. Spotify also offers a variety of comedy stations, audiobooks and a specially-made playlist of music you may be interested in. There three different ways to listen: smartphone app, computer desktop program and a web player. The first two provide icons that take you immediately to your music library, while the web player can be accessed through an internet search engine.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download, but it will play ads. You can remove the ads for a monthly fee.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- It has millions of different songs from which to choose.
Old Time Radio Player — Do you miss classic radio programs and theatric radio voices?
This app can take you back in time. There are over 14,000 episodes from classic shows, such as Hopalong Cassidy, Dick Tracy and Sherlock Holmes.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is compatible with Android devices
- It is free.
- It is easy to use.
Audible — If you like to read but find your eyes straining, Audible may be a solution. Through this app, you can choose a book from genres, such as history or romance, and a narrator will read the novel to you. This app is the hip, new successor to the books on cassette tapes. Your first book is free, but you will have to pay a monthly subscription fee.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download, but you will have to pay for subsequent books.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- You can cancel your subscription and keep the books you previously downloaded.
Waze — Pronounced “ways,” this handy GPS app is a must for drivers. Its goal is to help drivers avoid traffic jams and quickly get them where they need to be. Waze does this by tracking your car and asking drivers to submit accidents, road hazards and more, so other drivers can get the heads-up. The navigation map shows events in real time, so drivers can see the most current traffic reports.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- It includes turn-by-turn navigation.
Shazam — This app takes all the guess work out of remembering song titles or lyrics. If you hear a song on a TV commercial or on the radio, Shazam can “listen” and search for the song in its database. The app allows you to explore new and old artists.
- Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices, Apple products and Windows smartphones.
- Provides the option to purchase and download songs.
Honey — Honey actually isn’t an app for your smartphone or tablet. It downloads onto your computer as an extension and appears as a small icon near your search bar. If you shop online, you need Honey because it applies every promo code on the internet to your online shopping cart, which saves you money. When you sign up, you’ll also become a member of their awards program called Honey Gold where you can earn a $10 gift card or make a donation to a charity.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It’s free to download on your computer.
- It works on Mac and Windows computers.
- You can delete your account and the extension if needed.
Duolingo — If learning a new language is your goal, look to Duolingo. You can learn languages such as, Welsh, Spanish and Greek. Each lesson asks you to speak, listen, translate and answer multiple choice questions. The way the lessons are set up, it’s like playing a game.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It’s free but you can pay $6.99 per month to remove ads and add more perks.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- It uses images and audio to help you learn.
Venmo — Need to pay someone back but don’t have cash or time to run to the bank? Use Venmo. You can connect your bank account or debit card with Venmo and instantly recieve and send money to anyone with a Venmo account. You can also pay for goods and services online if they accept Venmo as a payment.
Some benefits of the app include:
- The app is free.
- It’s free to send and receive money or use money to purchase something online. Their standard 3 percent fee applies to credit cards.
- Venmo uses encryption to help protect your account details.
WordScapes — WordScapes is a cross between a text twist and a crossword puzzle. It challenges your vocabulary as you twist the letters to find words that will fit correctly in the crossword puzzle. It also features beautiful landscapes in the background to keep you zen and focused.
Some benefits of the app include:
- The app is free but does include ads.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- There’s over 5,000 puzzles.
WordBrain — If a word scramble and Bejeweled were blended, it would be this app. You can keep your mind sharp as you find hidden words and collapse the puzzles. It boasts 580 levels, so you’ll never run out of fun challenges.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- It is free.
- The rules are easy to learn.
Draw Something — It’s a fun game you can play with family and friends wherever they are. Players take turns drawing the given word and the other player must guess the word using only the picture and letters provided. If you enjoy “Pictionary” or “charades,” you should download this app.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- It is free.
- It offers a fun way to interact with your children or grandchildren.
Lumosity – Developers have transformed cognition tests created by scientists mini mind games. Lumosity says their games will keep your mind sharp by working to enhance memory, attention and other skills. After each game, you can see your results or scores.
Yoga for Adults & Seniors: For Increased Mobility & Flexibility – A yoga instructor will guide you through stretches and sequences tailored for adults and seniors. It's also beneficial for those of all ages with restricted mobility.
Diabetes Apps
Diabetes is becoming more prevalent across the globe. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts diabetes will be the seventh leading cause of death in 2030. The majority of people around the world with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.
Always consult your physician for medical advice regarding diabetes diagnosis, treatment and management. If you are interested in trying one of these apps, ask your doctor if it would be beneficial to your care plan.
MyNetDiary — is a calorie counter, weight and exercise tracker, and more. It has an extensive index of food items ranging from specific brands to dishes at popular restaurants. There is a separate app, called, MyNetDiary Diabetes Tracker, where you or your loved one can view reports to see the impact of foods, medications and exercise on blood glucose levels. MyNetDiary works best if you create an account on their website.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download. However, the Pro version of the app is $3.99, the Diabetes Tracker app is $9.99 and the Maximum upgrade subscription is $5 per month.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple
- It can sync with activity trackers, such as the Fitbit.
mySugr — tracks blood glucose levels, medication, meals and physical activity. It has colorful, clear graphs and charts that make it easy to understand how food and exercise influence glucose levels. mySugr also has a HGA1c (hemoglobin A1c) monitor on the home screen, so you can quickly check your results.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download. However, you can choose to upgrade to the Pro version for $2.99 per month or $27.99 per year. You can also purchase a certified diabetes educator coaching feature for $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple
- It connects with glucometers, such as Accu-Chek.
Fooducate — is a health and activity monitor. The app calls itself a “nutritionist in your pocket” because when a user scans a food product’s bar code, the app analyzes the product’s nutrition panel and ingredient list. Fooducate also grades raw and pre-prepared meats, processed and raw fruits, and much more. In the app you can share recipes and motivation within the community.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download. However, you can choose to purchase a subscription for premium features. Premium features let users customize their dietary needs in case of food allergies, such as gluten and lactose intolerances.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple
- It recommends healthier options based on what you are eating.
Glucoracle — is an app and research project at Columbia University. The app can predict your or your loved one’s blood sugar levels after eating a specific snack or food. All you need to do is take a photo of your food item, estimate the nutritional content (such as carbohydrates) and the app will calculate a blood glucose forecast. The researchers’ goal is to help people with diabetes to improve their self-management by making healthier meal choices and preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple
- The forecast is personalized through food intake and blood glucose measurements.
Apps for People With Dementia
Apps can be beneficial and fun for people with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. The following apps may not be appropriate for all the stages of dementia, so test out which apps will be best for your loved one.
Pocket Pond 2 — Everything is Zen in this app, recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association. You and your loved one can design a relaxing pond by adding koi fish, lily pads and other creatures. You can even make splashes in your pool. There are more in depth ways to play, such as raising and selling your koi, but you don’t need to do that to enjoy the game.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- In-app purchase options can be turned off.
Tiny Piano and Mini Piano: These two apps, for Apple products and Android devices respectively, allows you to play on… a tiny, mini piano. The little pianos display a section of realistic piano keys, which you and your loved one can press. You can play famous songs or create your own masterpiece. What sets these two piano apps apart is that you can tap any key to follow along with the song. So, your loved one can enjoy the music by just keeping the tempo, hitting anywhere on the piano. This is a great option for those who have limited physical and/or cognitive abilities.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products, respectively.
- The apps come with free, preloaded songs.
Colorfy — This app makes it easier to participate in the adult coloring trend. Colorfy is equipped with templates or “coloring books,” featuring designs such as mandalas, flowers and animals. To color, select a colored pencil and just tap the section or area you want to fill in. If you make a mistake, you can use the undo option. You can also zoom into the image if your loved one has low vision. The one drawback is that while the app is free, not every “coloring book” is free.
Some benefits of the app include:
- It is free to download.
- It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.
- The app can run without an internet connection.
Other Articles You May Like
A Helping Hand for the Holidays: In-Home Respite Care 101
There are plenty of reasons for family members to take care of aging or disabled loved ones. The role can be rewarding, bringing people closer to the people they love and allowing them to tailor care to their personal needs and preferences. But even the most dedicated family caregivers need a break to focus on their own well-being, especially around the busy holiday season. Thats where respite care comes in.Despite the fact that 1 out of every 5 Americans acts as a caregiver to a loved one, only 15% take advantage of respite care services available to them. Respite care can create better outcomes for caregivers and their loved ones alike. It gives family members time to rest and recharge so they can come back to the role with fresh eyes and renewed spirit.But what is respite care, and is it right for you? Lets take a look at the many benefits of hiring a home care agency to give you a helping hand when you need it.What is In-Home Respite Care?In-home respite care is a form of temporary relief from the responsibilities of caretaking. You get to set the termsit could mean hiring a professional aide for an afternoon, for several weeks, or anything in between. At ComForCare, our highly trained staff can come to your loved ones home to perform many of the duties you provide on a daily basis, including:Preparing meals and helping them eatHelping them groom, bathe, and dressProviding medication remindersGrocery shopping, picking up medications, and related errandsCoordinating care and transporting them to and from doctor appointmentsLight housekeepingUnlike adult day-care centers or respite care facilities, in-home care reduces the stress on your loved one by bringing care to them. They get to stay in their familiar environment with minimal disruption to their routineand you get a break to focus on your needs.Benefits of Respite CareManage Stress & Ward Off BurnoutOver half of family caregivers in an AARP survey reported that they experience moderate to high levels of stress related to their roles responsibilities. Combined with the added pressures of the holiday season, the winter months can quickly lead to burnout for those taking care of loved ones. Respite care gives you room to breathe, just like taking time off work. After all, though it can be deeply rewarding, caretaking is a form of labor. Working so hard without rest can take a serious toll on your mental health, which in turn can affect your ability to care for your loved one.Reduce Health Risks for Your Loved OneWhen were burnt out, busy, or bustling around more than usual, we can overlook important signs of illness or disease progression. Were only human, and can only focus on so many things at once. ComForCares home aides are specially trained to watch for warning signs that your loved one needs medical intervention or additional help. They can also provide you with a fresh perspective after months or even years of seeing your loved one every day.This is especially true if your loved one has recently suffered an injury or had a medical procedure. Temporary respite care during their recovery can reduce the risk of infection and rehospitalization. Its a way to optimize their healing process while taking some time to focus on your health, too.Find Support & a Social NetworkBetween 40% and 70% of family caregivers struggle with feelings of depression, often compounded or caused by isolation and loneliness. During this time of the year when were supposed to be celebrating togetherness, that struggle can begin to feel unmanageable. Not enough caregivers realize that there are support groups for people just like them, where they can come together, socialize, and share their experiences. Home care agencies like ComForCare can connect you with those resources.We do everything in our power to take care of our clientsand that means helping family caregivers just as much as it means assisting their loved ones with their daily needs. We have a wealth of knowledge about mental health resources and support systems, and were glad to share those with you while we give you a helping hand. Respite Care Isnt SelfishIts a GiftOne of the biggest hurdles to self-care can be feelings of guilt. Its easy to see taking time for yourself as a selfish act. But the reality is, taking a break is a gift to your loved one, too. Whether all you need is a day alone to catch up on errands or a week to take your first vacation in years, youll return as a more resilient, more compassionate, and more capable caregiver.At ComForCare, all of our employees are background checked, highly trained, and vetted for a passion for treating all their clients with dignity and respect. Whether they meet your loved one only once or on a regular basis, theyll provide the highest level of care so you can rest easy. To learn more about our work and find a schedule that will fit into your life and your budget, get in touch with us today!
Understanding and Managing Diabetic Neuropathy
Supporting a Loved One with Diabetic Neuropathy See our latest Blog post:Caring for a loved one with diabetic neuropathy can feel overwhelming, especially as you see them struggle with discomfort and daily challenges. This condition, caused by nerve damage from diabetes, often leads to pain, numbness, and balance issues that complicate everyday tasks. The care experts at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care understand that gaining insight into a loved ones experience and learning how to provide effective support can significantly enhance their quality of life. (See post for more)If you, a family member or friend need a little extra care, and still want to live at home -- We can help with Home Health Care Services --We refer qualified and compassionate home health care providers that have been thoroughly screened to support our goal of making living and aging at home safe, comfortable and affordable. Referred Care Providers are available on an hourly, daily, weekly, or live-in basis.Care Providers: Register and take an important step towards taking control of your career! Case opportunities include days, evenings, nights and extended care shifts. We register companions, Home Health Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, Nurses and LPN's. https://www.americaninhomecare.com
Caregiver Legal and Financial Considerations: Power of Attorney
Protecting Your Loved Ones Independence and Well-Being at HomeHelping a family member remain independent and living at home is a labor of love, but at times it can be overwhelming. There is so much to consider beyond just their overall health and well-being. Depending on the situation, a loved one may need immediate or future help coordinating medical care or managing finances. Having the proper Power of Attorney credentials established can help caregivers navigate the complexities of the system and avoid costly or time-consuming pitfalls during their loved ones aging journey.Here is a basic overview of two of the most common Power of Attorney documents:Financial Power of Attorney (Durable)With a Financial Power of Attorney (POA), a person known as the principal appoints an agent to carry out financial and other activities, as instructed by the principal. Often the person designated is a family member but note that it may be advisable to name a primary agent and an alternate agent. Principals may choose whether the POA becomes effective immediately or only in the event of illness/disability. Ideally, the POA document should have language indicating that it is durable (remains in effect even after the person is legally incapacitated). In Pennsylvania, the Financial POA must be notarized and witnessed. The law also stipulates that a POA must exercise the powers for the benefit of the principal, keep the assets of the principal separate from their own, and exercise reasonable caution and prudence. Financial Power of Attorney ceases after the principal passes away.Medical Power of AttorneyPennsylvania recognizes two types of advanced directives for healthcare decisions: Medical Power of Attorney and Living Wills. The Medical Power of Attorney, also known as a Healthcare POA or healthcare proxy, is broader in scope than a Living Will in that it empowers the caregiver to make all medical decisions if their loved one is unconscious, incapacitated, or mentally incompetent. The appointed person will be able to access medical records, speak to healthcare professionals, and make healthcare judgments and medical decisions based on their loved ones treatment (or non-treatment) preferences. A Medical POA is a crucial component of advance care planning, allowing your loved one to ensure that their healthcare preferences are honored. The document must have two witnesses and be notarized.Information and downloadable Power of Attorney pdf documents are available online. During the application process to Senior LIFE, a Senior LIFE outreach coordinator can also help you get started with the POA process. Contact us today.
Local Services By This Author
ComForCare Home Care of N & SW Pittsburgh
Non-Medical 10521 Perry Hwy Ste 115, Wexford, Pennsylvania, 15090The In-Home Care That Lets You Be YouAccording to AARP, 80% of people prefer to stay at home as they age, or "age in place." But if staying home means you need a little more help than you used to, ComForCare's professional caregivers are here for you from medication assistance and doctor appointments to light housekeeping and meal preparation. Stay independent in the comfort of your own home with in-home caregiving services. ComForCare offers a variety of in-home care services to fit the needs of you and your family. It is our goal to provide companionship and help out with everyday activities to ensure your elderly loved ones can live safely and securely. Whether your loved ones health concerns are due to illness, injury, or aging, our personal home care packages and flexible scheduling allow your loved one to maintain a sense of freedom, dignity, and connection to friends and family. Seniors who choose to stay at home are often happier, healthier, and recover faster from illness or injury than those living in assisted living facilities. ComForCare is independent living with a little extra help! Our health care professionals are not only highly qualified, they are highly compassionate and love what they do. Caregivers who meet our high standards and strict guidelines are screened for empathy, trained in senior care, and matched with clients based on their experience, skills, and compatibility. This unique approach to elder care provides the foundation for a trusted relationship between your loved one and the caregiver, and a long-lasting partnership in care between you and ComForCare. Our home care services and compassionate caregivers help older adults live independently in their own home and continue to do all the things they love. We do not just assign caregivers to a job. We match our caregivers based on the needs, interests, and personalities of our clients.With home care services, our office can provide personal care plans through an in-home evaluation and interviews between the client, family and the ComForCare team to help determine the best plan of action for the individual based on their specific needs. ComForCare can help individuals with daily activities. Our dedicated caregivers can be available for as little as a few times per week or 24 hours a day to provide care.Aging In Place is Easy With In Home Help While assisted living facilities and senior communities are an option, the majority of people needing care want to remain in the comfort of their own homes. Maintaining independence and being with family, friends, and pets is most people's preference.Studies show that people are happier when they stay at home; they recover faster, have reduced anxiety, and are less prone to depression.We can help clients with tasks such as:24/7 CareBathing & ToiletingCompanionshipDementia CareDisability SupportFamily RespiteGrooming & HygieneLight HousekeepingMeal PrepMedicaid Provider EnrollmentMedication RemindersMemory ScreeningPersonal CareSafety SupervisionSenior and Elder Care ManagementTransitions of CareTransportationVeterans ProgramsIn Home Care For All PersonsSeniors aren't the only ones who need a little help at times. ComForCare is ready and willing to offer all services to anyone needing care in their home. We help veterans, adults with mental and physical disabilities, persons with chronic conditions, and persons recovering from surgery or an illness. Everyone needs help at some point in their lives; call on the team at ComForCare when you need us.From transportation to do errands and grocery shopping, to vacuuming and dusting, or a few hours of companionship, our compassionate caregivers are available. The services we provide will ensure you enjoy living in your home as you age or recover.Dementia CareOur proprietary program, DementiaWise, engages and enhances the lives of people with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia while providing support and education for the family. Caregivers take special care to recognize behavioral triggers and use redirection, which may help prevent or reduce any challenging dementia behaviors, while helping clients remain independent for as long as possible.Request a Personalized Home Care Service ConsultationIf you want to know how best to maintain your independence or that of your loved one, request an in-home care service evaluation. A trained professional from ComForCare Home Care will visit the home for a personalized home care consultation.During Your Personalized Home Care Visit We Will:Check for potential fall risks with suggestions for simple fixesLook at the living space with your loved one's specific concerns in mindReview medical history, medications, any other needs or concernsEvaluate balance and ease of movement throughout the homeRecommend any necessary home safety devices that assist in overall comfort and safety such as handrails and shower chairsOffer support and understanding, with flexible services that can helpWe serve all persons in Greater NW Pittsburgh, PA., including Northern Allegheny County, Butler County, Beaver County and Lawrence County, PA. Whether your loved one needs assistance only a few hours a week or around-the-clock, our team is happy to help! Call (724) 759-7674 to learn more about the transition care services offered through ComForCare Home Care (NW Pittsburgh).