Trying to reduce elderly anxiety at night for a loved one? Read our top tips for the best ways to minimize elderly anxiety at night and improve their sleep quality.
Alt Text: An Elderly Man Reminiscing (Image Source)
Do you have an elderly loved one who experiences anxiety at night? Unfortunately, anxiety can become more common and impactful as we age, causing sleep disturbances and other issues. However, there are strategies that caregivers can use to help reduce anxiety in the elderly at night. This article will discuss tips for reducing elderly anxiety at night, including creating a relaxing environment, engaging in relaxation techniques, and utilizing innovative technologies. Read on to learn about assisting your senior family member in coping with their anxiety at night and improving their sleep quality.
Related: Three Things to Consider When Taking Care of Your Parents
To fully grasp nighttime anxiety in older adults, we must examine its causes and symptoms.
There are various causes of anxiety in the elderly at night, some of which include:
Health Concerns - Older adults may have concerns about their health, chronic illnesses, pain, and other age-related issues that can cause anxiety and worry at night.
Loss of Independence - Aging can cause a loss of independence, which can be emotionally distressing and lead to anxiety.
Fear of Falling - Older adults are at an increased risk of falling, which can cause anxiety and fear, especially at night when it is dark, and visibility is low.
Loneliness and Isolation - Many older adults live alone, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. These feelings can heighten at night with less social interaction and distractions.
Financial Concerns - Older adults may worry about their financial stability, especially if they are retired and living on a fixed income.
Medications - Certain medications can cause side effects such as insomnia, nightmares, and anxiety, which can be more pronounced at night.
Cognitive Decline - As people age, Alzhermer’s, dementia, and cognitive decline can occur, which can cause confusion, disorientation, and anxiety at night.
Past Traumatic Experiences - Older adults may have experienced traumatic events in their past, such as war, abuse, or loss of loved ones, which can cause anxiety and flashbacks at night.
Click Here to see how teleCalm can stop late night calls!
Anxiety symptoms can manifest differently in older adults compared to younger individuals.
Some common symptoms of anxiety in the elderly include:
Excessive Worrying - Elderly individuals may excessively fret over health, finances, and various life aspects.
Physical Symptoms - Anxiety may induce symptoms like increased heart rate, perspiration, trembling, and shortness of breath.
Sleep Disturbances - Seniors with anxiety might struggle with falling asleep, maintaining sleep, or awakening too early.
Irritability and Restlessness - Anxiety can lead to feelings of irritability, agitation, and restlessness in older adults.
Avoidance Tendencies- Some seniors with anxiety might evade situations that exacerbate their anxious feelings, such as social gatherings or leaving the house.
Memory Challenges - Anxiety can impact memory and focus, posing concerns for elderly individuals experiencing cognitive decline to some extent.
Physical Complaints - Anxiety can cause physical complaints such as headaches, gastrointestinal problems, and muscle tension.
Late-Night and Repeated Calling - It is important to note that according to WebMD, these symptoms can also indicate other medical conditions, and a proper evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Here are some tips that can help reduce elderly anxiety at night:
With just a few simple steps, you can customize your preferences in the teleCalm Caregiver App to stop compulsive and repeated calls.
Features of teleCalm's Repeat Dialing include:
Customizable Settings: Choose the number of calls (2-5 times) and the specified period of time (15-60 minutes) before repeat dialing is activated.
Notifications
Gentle Messages to Your Loved One
No Additional Cost
Alt Text: An Elderly Woman In Her Room (Image Source)
The teleCalm's Quiet Hours feature can block incoming and outgoing calls during specific times.
Here's how the Quiet Hours feature works:
Customizable Settings - You can customize Quiet Hours in the teleCalm Caregiver App to activate during specific times, such as Nighttime Quiet Hours from 10 pm to 7 am.
Default or Personalized Messages - Your loved one will hear a default message during Quiet Hours. You can also record a personalized message in your voice to reassure them.
Easy to Set Up - Activate Quiet Hours under the Settings screen in the teleCalm Caregiver App. Select the time ranges for Daytime and Nighttime Quiet Hours. You can also adjust or turn off Quiet Hours anytime in the app.
A consistent sleep schedule can help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety at night. Encourage the elderly to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Make sure the bedroom is comfortable, quiet, and dark. Encourage the elderly to create a peaceful atmosphere by playing soothing music, using aromatherapy, or using a white noise machine.
Encourage the elderly to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, as these substances can interfere with sleep quality and contribute to anxiety.
Meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation before bedtime.
Address any underlying medical conditions contributing to anxiety at night, such as pain, urinary urgency, or respiratory distress.
Encourage the elderly to seek professional help if their anxiety at night is severe or interfering with their daily activities. A mental health professional or physician can provide appropriate treatment options.
Click Here to Contact teleCalm Today and Start Stress Free Phone Service!
Alt Text: An Elderly Gentleman Holding a Colorful Ball (Image Source)
Elderly anxiety at night is a common issue that can significantly impact their quality of life.
Fortunately, there are several strategies that caregivers can use to help alleviate anxiety in the elderly at night, such as establishing a regular sleep routine, creating a relaxing environment, engaging in relaxation techniques, and seeking professional help.
Additionally, teleCalm offers solutions such as the Repeat Dialing feature, which can help reduce compulsive and repeated calls—the Quiet Hours feature, which blocks incoming and outgoing calls during specific times.
With a mixed approach incorporating lifestyle changes and innovative technologies, caregivers can help their loved ones manage anxiety and improve their overall well-being.
Related: My Mom is Calling at 3AM
As we age, many of us will require assistance with daily living activities. While some seniors opt to move into assisted living facilities or nursing homes, many prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. In-home care has become increasingly popular over the years, but many people are unsure about the cost. In this blog, well take a closer look at the cost of in-home care and what factors can impact the price.What is In-Home Care?In-home care refers to a range of services that are provided to seniors in their own homes. This type of care can include assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, as well as medical services like medication management and wound care. In-home care can be provided by trained professionals, such as home health aides or licensed nurses, or by family members or friends.The Cost of In-Home CareThe cost of in-home care can vary widely depending on a number of factors. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the national median cost of in-home care in 2020 was $24 per hour for homemaker services and $24 per hour for home health aide services. However, the cost can be higher or lower depending on where you live, the type of services you need, and the amount of care required.One of the biggest factors that can impact the cost of in-home care is the level of care needed. Seniors who require only minimal assistance with daily living activities may only need a few hours of in-home care per week, while those who require more intensive care may need around-the-clock assistance. The more care that is required, the higher the cost will be.Another factor that can impact the cost of in-home care is the type of services needed. Homemaker services, which include tasks like cleaning, cooking, and running errands, are typically less expensive than home health aide services, which provide more hands-on care like medication management and assistance with personal hygiene.Finally, the cost of in-home care can also vary depending on where you live. In some parts of the country, the cost of in-home care may be higher due to a higher cost of living or a shortage of trained professionals in the area.Paying for In-Home CareMany seniors and their families are concerned about how they will pay for in-home care. Fortunately, there are a number of options available to help cover the cost.One option is to use personal savings or retirement funds to pay for in-home care. Another option is to use long-term care insurance, which can help cover the cost of in-home care as well as other long-term care expenses.Medicare may also cover some of the cost of in-home care if certain criteria are met, such as if the senior is homebound and requires skilled nursing care. Medicaid may also cover the cost of in-home care for seniors who meet certain income and asset requirements.Finally, some seniors may be eligible for assistance from nonprofit organizations or community groups that provide financial assistance for in-home care.Choosing In-Home CareIf you or a loved one is considering in-home care, its important to choose a provider that meets your needs and budget. Look for a provider that is licensed, bonded, and insured, and that has a reputation for providing high-quality care.Its also a good idea to ask for references and to check online reviews from other clients. Finally, be sure to ask about the cost of services upfront and to get a detailed breakdown of all fees and charges.In-home care can be a great option for seniors who want to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. While the cost of in-home care can vary depending on a number of factors, there are a variety of options available to help cover the cost.
n-home care traditionally relies on human interaction and personal touch. However, integrating technology into caregiving practices does not replace these elements but rather enhances them. Here are several ways technology is making a difference in in-home care: 1. Telehealth and Virtual Consultations Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, making medical consultations more accessible and convenient. Through video calls and online platforms, seniors can connect with healthcare providers without leaving their homes. Benefits of Telehealth: Convenience: Seniors can receive medical advice, follow-up care, and consultations from the comfort of their homes. Accessibility: Telehealth reduces the need for transportation, making healthcare accessible to those with mobility issues or in remote areas. Continuous Monitoring: Regular virtual check-ins allow for continuous monitoring of health conditions, enabling timely interventions. 2. Remote Monitoring and Wearable Devices Wearable devices and remote monitoring tools are game changers in in-home care, providing real-time health data that caregivers can use to tailor care plans. Key Technologies: Smartwatches: Equipped with features like heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and emergency alerts, smartwatches can help track vital signs and ensure immediate response to emergencies. Remote Sensors: Devices placed around the home can monitor movement patterns, detect falls, and alert caregivers to potential issues. Health Tracking Apps: These apps allow caregivers to monitor medication adherence, dietary habits, and overall wellness, promoting better health management. 3. Medication Management Systems Proper medication management is crucial for seniors, especially those with chronic conditions. Technology simplifies this task and minimizes the risk of errors. Solutions for Medication Management: Automated Dispensers: These devices dispense the correct dosage of medication at specified times, reducing the risk of missed or incorrect doses. Medication Reminders: Apps and smart devices can send reminders to seniors and caregivers, ensuring medications are taken on time. Electronic Health Records (EHRs): EHRs allow caregivers to access and update medication lists, ensuring all healthcare providers are informed of current treatments. 4. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology enhances safety and convenience for seniors living independently. These technologies can be integrated into daily routines, providing peace of mind for both seniors and their families. Examples of Smart Home Technology: Voice-Activated Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home can assist with daily tasks, provide reminders, and even control other smart devices. Smart Lighting and Thermostats: Automated lighting and climate control improve comfort and reduce the risk of accidents in the home. Security Systems: Smart locks, cameras, and alarm systems enhance home security, allowing caregivers and family members to monitor the home remotely. 5. Digital Communication Tools Staying connected with loved ones is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Digital communication tools bridge the gap between seniors and their families, fostering stronger relationships and reducing feelings of isolation. Popular Tools for Communication: Video Calling Apps: Platforms like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime allow for face-to-face interactions, helping seniors stay connected with family and friends. Social Media: Seniors can use social media platforms to engage with their community, share updates, and stay informed. Online Communities: Virtual support groups and communities provide a space for seniors to connect with peers, share experiences, and find support. The Benefits of Technology-Enhanced In-Home Care Integrating technology into in-home care offers numerous benefits, significantly enhancing the overall caregiving experience. Improved Quality of Care Technology enables caregivers to provide more precise, informed, and proactive care. Real-time data and continuous monitoring allow for early detection of potential health issues, leading to timely interventions and better health outcomes. Enhanced Independence and Safety With smart home devices, remote monitoring, and automated systems, seniors can maintain their independence while ensuring their safety. These technologies reduce the need for constant supervision, allowing seniors to live more autonomously. Increased Engagement and Social Interaction Digital communication tools and social media keep seniors engaged and connected, combating loneliness and promoting mental well-being. Virtual activities and online communities offer opportunities for socialization and mental stimulation. Cost-Effective Care By reducing the need for frequent hospital visits and enabling remote monitoring, technology can lower healthcare costs. Telehealth consultations, in particular, offer a cost-effective alternative to in-person visits, saving time and money. Choosing Acti-Kare for Technology-Enhanced In-Home Care At Acti-Kare, we are committed to incorporating the latest technological advancements into our in-home care services. Our goal is to provide the highest standard of care while embracing innovative solutions that improve the lives of our clients. Why Choose Acti-Kare? Comprehensive Care: We offer a wide range of services, from personal care and companionship to specialized medical support. Experienced Caregivers: Our caregivers are knowledgeable in using advanced technology to enhance care delivery. Personalized Approach: We create customized care plans that integrate technology to meet the unique needs of each client. Continuous Improvement: We stay updated with the latest technological advancements to ensure our clients benefit from the best available solutions. Technology is transforming the in-home care industry, offering new ways to enhance the quality of care, improve safety, and increase independence for seniors. At Acti-Kare, we leverage these advancements to provide exceptional, personalized care that meets the evolving needs of our clients. Embrace the future of in-home care with Acti-Kare and discover how technology can make a difference in your loved ones life. For more information about our technology-enhanced in-home care services and to discuss how we can support your family, visit our website or contact us today. Let Acti-Kare help you navigate the path to innovative and compassionate care. Give us a call at 412-810-6595.
As our senior loved ones age, we may start seeing physical and mental signs of decline. While some signs are not worrisome, others may be more concerning: anxiety, depression, forgetfulness, and mishandling money. These could indicate more serious issues and are risky behaviors. So here are four things you can do to help your aging loved one manage their finances. Four Ways to Help Your Aging Loved One Manage Finances:1. Stepping Up to Help With Daily TasksAs they age, your loved one may start having difficulty remembering important things such as taking their medications and getting refills on time. If you notice your loved one is no longer able to keep track of due dates for their bills or forgets to pick up their mail and leaves letters unopened, it is time for a conversation. Ask them if you can take charge of their finances in order to avoid overdraft fees, missed due dates, and other potential problems.If you live far away or if you cannot visit regularly, consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager to check on your loved one, assess their needs, and recommend on-going services. Share a calendar with their care team to let them know about appointments, and make a readily-accessible list of phone numbers that include doctors, pharmacies, banking institutions, and emergency numbers. 2. Finding a Suitable RentalAnother consideration is your loved ones living arrangement. A popular option is finding a new, accessible, rental home or apartment, which means less maintenance than owning a home. When scouting rentals, look in neighborhoods with the amenities they need. View online listings to find properties in their price range to locate the perfect place. 3. Getting Power of AttorneyAsk your senior loved one if theyre willing to grant you power of attorney, which will allow you to make medical and/or financial decisions for them when theyre no longer able to do so. A power of attorney is a flexible document that lets your loved one (the principal) specify what decisions can be made on their behalf by another person (the agent). The principal can amend or make changes to that document at any time, provided they are of sound mind.Once you fill out the required forms and have them notarized, print extra copies for your records and put them in a safe place. Being legally prepared before your loved one becomes ill or incapacitated will give both of you peace of mind taking the guesswork out of what should happen and knowing that your loved ones wishes will be respected in the event theyre no longer able to clearly communicate. 4. Closing or Selling Your Loved Ones BusinessWhen your loved one owns a business but can no longer manage it, it is time to close or sell it. There are many steps involved in dissolving an LLC or corporation, so consult with an accountant or attorney in order to avoid penalties. You will have to gather all documents pertaining to the company such as articles of incorporation and operating agreement and be able to provide a potential buyer with several years of tax returns, profit and loss statements, and client/vendor contracts, etc.Get a professional business valuation in order to properly and objectively determine its value. A good business broker will help you come up with a number by analyzing the companys management, capital structure, future earnings, and market value of its assets, and will facilitate and streamline the selling process.It can be a difficult conversation, but it is important. Take time to discuss your loved ones financial situation. Together, come up with a plan that will keep them financially secure. Youll have greater peace of mind knowing that everything is in order.5. EfficiencyAging Life Care Managers streamline care processes, reducing redundancies and ensuring efficient use of resources. They help avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and inappropriate placements, which can save significant costs. For example, an Aging Life Care Manager might identify that a clients frequent hospital visits are due to medication mismanagement and work to set up a system where medications are properly administered at home, thus reducing the need for hospital care (Yang). What Distinguishes an Aging Life Care Manager from Other Geriatric Care Managers?Aging Life Care Professionals are distinguished by their membership in ALCA, which sets them apart through rigorous education, experience, and certification standards. Aging Life Care Professionals must meet stringent education and certification requirements, which include formal higher education in related fields such as gerontology, nursing, or social work, and professional certifications like Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Case Manager (CCM) . Additionally, they adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring a high level of professionalism and quality care.When to Engage the Services of an Aging Life Care Professional for Yourself or Your Loved OneKnowing when to engage the services of an Aging Life Care Professional can be challenging. Here are some indicators that it might be time to seek help: The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues. They are unable to live safely in their current environment. They are not pleased with current care providers and require advocacy. They are confused about their own financial and/or legal situation. They have limited or no family support. Your family is burned out or confused about care solutions. You have limited time and/or expertise in dealing with the individuals chronic care needs and/or do not live close by. Your family is at odds regarding care decisions. You need education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia. Evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals for Yourself or Your Loved OneWhen evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals, consider the following: Credentials and Certification: Ensure the Aging Life Care Professional is certified and a member of ALCA. Experience: Look for professionals with substantial experience in geriatric care management. References and Reviews: Seek references from previous clients and read reviews to gauge their reputation and effectiveness. Compatibility: Choose someone who is compatible with your family and understands your specific needs and preferences. Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial; the Aging Life Care Professional should be able to clearly explain care plans and updates. Understanding Aging Life Care ManagementAging Life Care Management is not just about addressing immediate health concerns but also about providing a holistic and proactive approach to care. This includes planning for future needs, advocating for the client within the healthcare system, and supporting the family through emotional and logistical challenges.Its about enhancing the overall quality of life for both the older adult and their family.Advice for Planning for Healthy AgingPlanning for healthy aging involves being proactive about your health, finances, and lifestyle choices. Here are some key pieces of advice from ALCA: Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental health to stay physically and mentally fit. Plan Financially: Save and invest wisely to ensure financial stability in your later years. Consider long-term care insurance and other financial products that can help cover future care needs. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about aging and the resources available to support you. Stay connected with community services and support networks. Be Proactive About Healthcare: Regular health check-ups and screenings can help detect and manage potential health issues early. Build a Support Network: Cultivate strong relationships with family, friends, and community members who can provide support as you age. Aging Life Care Management is an invaluable resource for families navigating the complexities of elder care. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that older adults receive comprehensive, compassionate care while supporting and relieving the burdens on their families. By understanding and utilizing the services provided by these professionals, families can enhance the quality of life for their loved ones and themselves. For more detailed information and resources, the Aging Life Care Association website is an excellent place to start.
teleCalm stops problem calls for families living with Alzheimers & other cognitive challenges at home and in senior living communities.teleCalm provides a safe phone services for seniors living with Alzheimers and other cognitive challenges. Their services help family caregivers to manage and stop unwanted incoming and outgoing calls, including late-night calls, repeated calls, 911 abuse, and targeted fraud. teleCalm offers two levels of stress-free home phone services for seniors: the Caregiver service and the Trust service. The Caregiver service is designed to solve common challenges faced by caregivers and their loved ones. It helps seniors maintain their independence, reduces isolation, and prevents everyday problems such as late-night calls, repeated calls, 911 abuse, and telemarketer/scam calls. This service works with regular home phones and replaces the existing landline service provider. The family caregiver manages all the features and benefits of the service remotely through the teleCalm Caregiver app. The Trust service is designed for independent seniors and filters out robocallers before they have a chance to ring through to the seniors phone. This service learns over time who your loved ones trusted contacts are based on their calling habits. teleCalm's phone service replaces current home phone service, often for less money than the current basic phone service. The company has simple pricing, with all taxes and fees included in the monthly pricing. Internet is not required to have teleCalm service, and you can keep your current phone number, or the phone number of your loved one. teleCalm is a veteran and woman-owned company, with a 5-Star rating on both BBB and Google. All of their support team is US-based and have been family caregivers themselves. If you're looking for a safe phone service for seniors, visit teleCalmProtects.com to learn more and see how they can help solve your phone-related challenges.
teleCalm stops problem calls for families living with Alzheimers & other cognitive challenges at home and in senior living communities.teleCalm provides a safe phone services for seniors living with Alzheimers and other cognitive challenges. Their services help family caregivers to manage and stop unwanted incoming and outgoing calls, including late-night calls, repeated calls, 911 abuse, and targeted fraud. teleCalm offers two levels of stress-free home phone services for seniors: the Caregiver service and the Trust service. The Caregiver service is designed to solve common challenges faced by caregivers and their loved ones. It helps seniors maintain their independence, reduces isolation, and prevents everyday problems such as late-night calls, repeated calls, 911 abuse, and telemarketer/scam calls. This service works with regular home phones and replaces the existing landline service provider. The family caregiver manages all the features and benefits of the service remotely through the teleCalm Caregiver app. The Trust service is designed for independent seniors and filters out robocallers before they have a chance to ring through to the seniors phone. This service learns over time who your loved ones trusted contacts are based on their calling habits. teleCalm's phone service replaces current home phone service, often for less money than the current basic phone service. The company has simple pricing, with all taxes and fees included in the monthly pricing. Internet is not required to have teleCalm service, and you can keep your current phone number, or the phone number of your loved one. teleCalm is a veteran and woman-owned company, with a 5-Star rating on both BBB and Google. All of their support team is US-based and have been family caregivers themselves. If you're looking for a safe phone service for seniors, visit teleCalmProtects.com to learn more and see how they can help solve your phone-related challenges.