Traveling can be a welcome break in routine. The excitement of being away from home is part of the fun. However, travel can be stressful and can seriously affect individuals living with dementia. When you travel, the responsibilities of caring for your loved one remain the same, but now you may have the added responsibilities which come with traveling with someone living with memory loss. Careful planning is essential for every trip, which must include plans unique for dementia caregivers.
A regular schedule and familiarity with people and surroundings are important to a person living with dementia, and any change in their routine or surroundings can cause anxiousness, agitation and increased confusion. How much a person will be affected by travel depends upon the severity of the dementia and how easily the person becomes disoriented and upset.
For those in the early stages of dementia, traveling can often be an enjoyable break from routine. Can your loved one remember an upcoming trip? Are they looking forward to it? If so, then they may be able to handle the stress of travel. Visiting with family can often help to recall memories of earlier days, and the trip could be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
For those in the middle stages of the disease, travel may be too overwhelming. Make an honest assessment of your loved one’s current capabilities and condition. If the person living with dementia feels anxious in new places or situations, they wander, or are consistently confused or agitated, travel will probably make these symptoms worse. The changes in routine, a new environment, unfamiliar faces, and crowds are all difficult for persons with dementia, and the negative effects may continue even after returning home.
In addition, if assistance is needed in the bathroom, they are incontinent, they suffer from paranoia or delusions, have a history of falling, or are medically unstable, traveling could present challenging situations or serious health and safety risks. Speak to your doctor for guidance about any potential travel plans.
Trying a short trip is a great way to judge how your family member will handle travel. You’ll get a better idea of the responsibilities and challenges of caregiving while traveling. Here are some ideas:
Discovering these limitations and needs can be extremely helpful in planning a longer trip or deciding if it would be better for your loved one not to travel.
If you decide to travel with your loved one with dementia, here are some tips to consider:
Consider driving in one day—spending the night in an unfamiliar place and continuing the drive on the second day may be too upsetting and confusing for your loved one. Seat the person with dementia in the back seat with their door locked, the child door safety lock engaged and their seat belt buckled so they cannot grab the steering wheel or open the door. Do not drive with your loved one if they become agitated in the car and never leave a person with dementia alone in the car. Make regular rest stops and stay together at all times.
Speak to the hotel before your arrival to arrange for special services and specific needs you will require. If staying in a hotel, book one large room with two beds and sleep in the bed closest to the door. Bring along a travel door alarm, night lights, doorknob covers, or whatever safety devices and measures you normally use. Unplug and remove all potentially dangerous items, such as the coffeemaker and unnecessary clutter.
While traveling, bring an activity for your loved one or play their favorite music. Bring snacks and water, too. Try to maintain as normal a schedule as possible and plan rest time and daily naps. Always keep essentials with you such as medications, travel itinerary, emergency contacts, current medical information, identification and a current photo of your loved one.
It’s important to remember that full-time caregivers need breaks, and an occasional vacation is an important part of your ability to provide the care your loved one will require in the long term. Respite care, either in your home or at a long-term care community, will provide all the care and medical supervision your loved one needs, while keeping their schedule and activities consistent. Look for a community which specializes in dementia care. Then, you will be able to relax and enjoy your travel knowing your loved one is receiving the best possible care and having a vacation of their own.
The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.
As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.
More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.
Arden Courts - ProMedica Memory Care Community (Sarasota)Address:5509 Swift RdSarasota, FL 34231Contact Us:Phone: 941-925-3900Fax: 941-925-7500Overview:Arden Courts Memory Care Community, located on Swift Rd in Sarasota, caters to the special needs of individuals with memory loss. Staffed by specially trained caregivers, Arden Courts cares for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Our community features friendly common spaces, an inviting kitchen, family rooms, and walking paths within enclosed courtyards, all designed for the safety and comfort of our residents.Customized Care & Services:We recognize residents have their own individual routines, interests, capabilities, and needs. We set out to accommodate their individuality beginning with an assessment by one of our professional staff members. Working with you, we develop an individualized service plan which is regularly adjusted to meet any changes in your loved ones routine or condition.Design & Layout:After five years of research with the assistance of Johns Hopkins, Arden Courts was specially designed not only to be safe and secure but to instill a sense of home that simultaneously enables residents to stay as independent as possible while also experiencing the stimulation necessary for one to thrive while residing within the community.ProMedica Memory Care Fund:The ProMedica Memory Care Fund assists those who are coping with memory loss and supports center services and caregiver education for the enrichment of all.Our Family of Care Services:Memory CareAssisted LivingIndependent LivingProMedica Senior CareProMedica Hospitals & Providers