Accessible Home Health Care of Naples

 Accessible Home Health Care has launched an integrated health care platform powered by WizeCare to improve home care clinician access to diagnostic and predictive analytic tools. This solution will enable providers to enhance the experience of patients receiving physical therapy and rehabilitation remotely. Accessible Home Health Care and WizeCare will be positioned to provide a broader set of remote solutions for care providers ensuring a continuum of care, starting with prevention, precision diagnosis, and personalized treatment and leading to better care in the home. The use of home-based technology is increasing to reduce preventable rehospitalizations by coordinating medical support. Utilizing interactive applications provides patients with real-time feedback without the need for direct clinician support. The goal is to empower patients by delivering AR video sessions combined with MoveAI sensorless technology. Additional benefits include fall prevention for the elderly population, early detection of diseases like Alzheimers, and predictive analytics.Now more than ever, patients want to heal at home, says Aarif Dahod, CEO of Accessible Home Health Care. This solution powered by WizeCare helps home clinicians expand the use of remote patient technology, especially in the way physical therapy and rehabilitation is delivered.The addition of WizeCare enhances Accessible Home Health Cares suite of technology solutions, including Accessible Remote Patient Monitoring and CareCaller. We are committed to finding technology that adapts to the needs of clinicians and patients. Our solutions help home health clinicians manage care for complex populations remotely, enabling patients to stay well in the comfort of home, says Mirella Salem, Co-founder and President of Accessible Home Health Care.About WizeCareWizeCare is a team of healthcare specialists, innovative clinicians, business analysts, and technology experts to establish a new paradigm in rehabilitation medicine a fully automated care process from intake to recovery. WizeCare helps clinicians scale their natural abilities with AI, replacing the need for movement labs in physical rehabilitation.With over 75,000 active patients to date, WizeCares state-of-the-art technology offers personalized care plans, delivered and monitored via any mobile devices, analyzed by proprietary algorithms, leading to better outcomes and shorter recovery times. The company has recently added the risk of falls detection capabilities for patients to perform at home to reduce the nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. To learn more, visit WizeCare.com.About Accessible Home Health CareFounded in 2001, Accessible Home Health Care provides compassionate home health care to support families and keep seniors safe in the homes they love. Accessible Home Health Care offers customizable in home health care services that include Alzheimers, dementia, and Parkinsons care to help seniors maintain their independence, home safety, and enhance their quality of life. For more information about Accessible Home Health Care, visit https://www.accessiblehomehealthcare.com. To learn about Accessible Remote Patient Monitoring, visit https://www.accessibleremotepatientmonitoring.com. Covered By:Cision PRWebLongview News-JournalWFMZ 69 News

September 28th is National Good Neighbor Day, which aims to improve community engagement and reverse the growing trend of isolation in neighborhoods. This trend leads to more loneliness and fewer friendships among neighbors. Lack of community support and isolation has hit seniors the hardest, as they are most prone to losing their social connections as they age. Many homebound seniors struggle with routine errands and self-care and need assistance and companionship.Fred Rogers taught many of us how to be good neighbors by being kind and helpful. For example, a friendly wave and greeting can mean so much for someone dealing with loneliness and isolation. We are reminded of this quote attributed to Rogers, which is evidence of his philosophy that we can all be neighbors to one another and make the world a more compassionate place.All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether were giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. Thats one of the things that connects us as neighborsin our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.Being better neighbors can start with simple gestures that only take a few minutes of our day. And heres a little secret: being kind and doing good benefits the giver, too. Of course, we completely understand that you dont want to be intrusive or appear overbearing, especially when many seniors are so used to being self-sufficient and may be reluctant to ask for help.We highlighted a few ways to stay connected with seniors in your neighborhood and be a good neighbor in their time of need.Ways to Lend a Helping Hand for Senior CompanionshipA neighbor is often the first person who may see signs that a senior in their neighborhood needs a little extra help or companionship. They may notice that their once active neighbor is no longer outside gardening or performing their daily routine. Or they arent going out as much and welcoming fewer visitors. Even something seemingly insignificant, such as the mail or newspaper not being picked up on the same day, could indicate something wrong.Studies have shown that strong neighborhood cohesion significantly reduces the risk of early death for older adults. This is partly because neighbors who know each other may feel a greater commitment to help if something feels off. Connecting with seniors in your neighborhood makes you feel empowered to help, even if its only a hunch.Its easy to start small and build trust incrementally. Here are some simple ways to connect with your senior neighbors:Start the Conversation: The smallest gesture can make a big difference for someone lonely or socially isolated. Anytime you see a neighbor outside, it is an opportunity to make a connection, even if its just a wave or a friendly hello. A wave today could turn into a chat about the weather tomorrow and, eventually, more exciting and engaging conversations about family life, sports, hobbies, or other topics that build trust and rapport.Ask for Their Contact Information: Exchange names and contact information so you can reach out in an emergency. As you build trust with your neighbor, you could also ask for the contact information of a family member or friend they use as an emergency contact in case you need to contact them.Offer to Help with Seasonal Chores: We are headed into the colder months of the year, which may mean raking leaves and eventually shoveling snow, depending on where you live. These chores are physically demanding, and hiring a professional crew may be cost-prohibitive for a senior on a fixed income. By helping out with a rake, mower, or snowblower, you can help take this burden off their shoulders and prevent hazards, like ice or slippery leaves, that could lead to falls or injuries.Provide Assistance for Technology Challenges: Technology can help offset some of the isolation challenges seniors face. Connecting worldwide with family and friends or participating in reading groups or social gatherings virtually is now possible. Still, while it may be easier to forge virtual connections, maintaining the physical network connection to facilitate these virtual meetings can be daunting and frustrating, even for someone who uses the technology regularly. Providing IT assistance is another way to be a good neighbor and build trust with a senior who may not be as familiar with the hardware and software used in these tools.Offer to Give Them a Ride: As seniors age, getting around their community may be more difficult, especially if they no longer drive. They need reliable access to transportation for doctor appointments, medicine pickups, grocery shopping, and social visits. If you are available, offer to take them or pick them up to alleviate their transportation concerns. You can help them avoid paying for a ride-share or cab that may be costly or missing an appointment they should keep. A ride here or there may seem like a little, but it can go a long way in helping them stay independent and socially active.Being a Good Neighbor Also Means Respecting BoundariesWe hope these tips have helped you think of ways to be a good neighbor to seniors on your street or block. As we get older, day-to-day activities can become more complicated, which isnt helped by the fact that our social circles also get smaller. It can make us feel more isolated and alone and, unfortunately, more reluctant to ask for help. A good neighbor often takes the first step to connect and offer assistance and companionship.Still, a neighbor shouldnt feel overwhelmed or obligated to always be there for a senior in need. There may be times when a senior does not want help for whatever reason. Its crucial to approach these situations with respect and sensitivity and know you are not entirely responsible for your neighbors well-being.If they say no, be respectful but mindful that you may have to contact their loved ones or provide information if requested. There is a wide range of community programs and support available, and in- home care is an option for families if a senior is struggling with day-to-day activities or needs medical home care. Your observations and check-ins can be significantly helpful if families need more information about their loved ones.Fred Rogers asked all of us to be his neighbors because he understood that practicing a little kindness and compassion can go a long way in making someone feel less lonely. Seniors face an increased risk of isolation and health adversity and may be more reluctant to ask for help. A simple neighborly gesture here and there can help them stay connected and, yes, enjoy another beautiful day in the neighborhood.

Remembering when to set our clocks an hour ahead or an hour behind is difficult enough for the average person. Making such changes in the lives of seniors, especially those who already face the challenges of memory disorders, can have adverse effects.When a senior relies on routine to get through the day, disrupting that routine in any way might create undue stress to their system. Therefore, knowing what to expect when Daylight Savings Time (DST) comes around is the best way to mitigate any issues arising from the time change.First and foremost, how does Daylight Savings Time affect seniors? From disruption of sleep to physical health issues, its important to be aware of the risks to help keep seniors happy and healthy through the adjustment period as we enter into spring.How Does Daylight Savings Time Affect Seniors?When Daylight Savings Time was introduced, it allowed workers more hours of daylight in the evenings. It meant that individuals would lose an hour of sleep in the spring while they would gain one in the fall. Some argue that DST causes more challenges than solutions in modern society, but nothing has changed in how the US observes it.In more recent years, studies have shown that people find that time changes disrupt their sleep patterns, affect their ability to follow daily routines, and cause underlying health issues. While these challenges present themselves to most individuals, they are especially difficult for seniors.Sleep DisruptionsChanging the time to adhere to DST can create challenges with maintaining our usual sleeping patterns. Studies have shown that people lose as much as 40 minutes to an hour of sleep in the initial days after a time adjustment.These disruptions can lead to other issues due to stress on our cognitive function. This becomes even more of a challenge for seniors who have dementia or other memory-related conditions.Not being able to keep a typical sleep routine can lead to a decrease in memory strength. It creates a disconnect in our brains. When we are tired, we have a harder time getting thoughts to flow together coherently, which leads to confusion and frustration.Exhaustion can also lead seniors to make medication mistakes and get physically hurt more often due to balance issues. While cognition is the go-to side-effect of sleep deprivation, it isnt the only way that seniors lives can be negatively affected by DST.Follow Daily RoutinesAs a result of sleep disruptions, our daily routines can also suffer. If we sleep later or dont sleep well, we will be less motivated to stick to what we know.This can be extra challenging for seniors with memory diagnoses because routine is what keeps them regulated and mentally stable. Not having the comfort and predictability of routine can lead to undo stress and depression.Part of coping with dementia or Alzheimers is ensuring that significant changes dont come along to upset the seniors day activities. Changing the time can make it difficult for some to regulate their emotions as they adjust to the new routine.While DST only occurs two times a year, that can still be highly disruptive and stressful for someone with such conditions. Many people with dementia or Alzheimers suffer from a condition called sundowning, where their cognition is diminished by the setting of the sun. Adjusting the time in the spring also affects those individuals sundowning condition, making it start sooner.Cardiovascular and Physical Health RisksThe stress of creating a new routine centered on the recent time changes can do more than simply mess up our brain chemistry and cognition. It can also lead to more serious health conditions.Confusion and exhaustion can lead to more stress on our bodies as they try to adjust. This means that it is more likely to suffer from such conditions as heart attacks, anxiety, high blood pressure, and gastrointestinal issues.Knowing what stress can do to your body is essential to keep in mind as you look toward future DST periods.What Can We Do To Help?Knowing how Daylight Savings Time (DST) can affect your loved ones is only half of what you need to make this period of transition a more positive one. Knowing how to help them cope with the effects of a time adjustment will allow them to diminish their stress levels.We can assist our loved ones with their transition period during DST in many ways.Adjust Sleep ScheduleKnowing that Daylight Savings Time comes around two times a year means we can look ahead and create a sleep schedule that can easily be adjusted. This will diminish the strain on sleeping patterns caused by the time adjustment.There are going to be some instances of sleep deprivation and insomnia, no matter what we try to do to help. However, having a schedule in place helps lessen the adjustment period for our loved ones.It is also important to keep your loved one away from caffeine or other sleep disruptors when DST comes along. Our brains naturally have trouble adjusting to the change, and adding substances into the mix will increase the transition period, especially for seniors.Create an Adjustable RoutineJust like with the sleep schedule, having a routine that fits your senior loved ones life outside of time constraints will help lessen the burden caused by DST. Routine will always be a source of regulation and comfort for seniors with memory conditions.That concept works just as well for seniors without such conditions as well. In all honesty, an adjustable and flexible daily routine can be helpful for anyone who struggles with change.Knowing what to expect helps relieve the burden of the unknown as our brains adjust to a new time.Make Use of Valuable Daylight TimeFor seniors who have dementia or Alzheimers and experience sundowning, making use of valuable time in the sun can help them adjust. Being active and alert during daylight hours is essential for seniors with memory conditions because it is when they are most likely to be themselves.Family members being aware of this and knowing that DST adjustment periods limit their loved ones cognitive abilities will go a long way toward helping them cope with the change. Being in the sun will give their seniors natural rhythms time to work their magic and help their loved ones feel more aware.ExerciseThe health benefits of exercise have long been documented. Exercise is the perfect solution to keep your systems regulated and healthy.So, when something such as time change which disrupts so much of our internal rhythms comes along, the simplest way to keep your body in tempo is through exercise. For our senior loved ones, this will significantly benefit their mental health and cognitive ability as they adjust to new sleep patterns and possible insomnia.Timing our exercises correctly for the correct times of day can allow our bodies to adjust to the new sleep patterns more quickly. Exercising, such as cardio in the evening, will enable us to work up a sweat and become exhausted if we have difficulties falling asleep. If we are struggling with cognition in the mornings, doing some yoga and mild stretching can give our brains an adjustment period to wake up more and function better for our other daily activities.Practice Relaxation TechniquesUltimately, stress is a big concern for the transition period just before and immediately after Daylight Savings Time. Knowing the best techniques to help our senior loved ones relax will go a long way toward ensuring they have a stress-free DST.Activities such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and hobbies are easy ways to help our loved ones adjust. These techniques will allow them to focus on what they can control and not worry about what they cant, such as the time change.Doing things they love will also release endorphins in their brain that keep their mental health positive, diminishing the chances of stress-related conditions occurring.Ultimately, it all comes down to what works best for our loved ones and how we can best adjust their lives to eliminate the adverse side effects of Daylight Savings Time.Accessible Is Here To Guide YouAnother way to help your senior with life adjustments brought on by Daylight Savings Time is through professional help. Whether this means seeking a doctor for advice or looking into home care for your loved one, we cant always meet these challenges alone.Accessible is here to assist you with any questions or concerns. Our caregivers are available to help your family in whatever capacity works best for your loved one. Contact us today for more information

  If music is the food of love, play on. This line from Shakespeares Twelfth Night shows that music is interwoven into all elements of our lives. If love is enough to help the ones we love, then by extension, music can help us feed our loved ones minds, bodies, and souls.Music therapy has been around for many years as a means to help individuals with their emotional wellness as well as their mental acuity. In recent years, this treatment method has seen results regarding memory loss.Memories are stored within our minds in connection to specific images or sounds. Therefore, music helps to open the door to long-hidden moments for those living with memory loss.Music and Older AdultsEveryone can benefit from some downtime with music. Whether they get it from playing an instrument, singing songs alone or in a group, or listening to their favorite tunes, it all has positive effects on their lives.Music has proven to provide benefits between generations and cultures through the connections made. After all, most people in the world can say they know of artists such as The Beatles, Elvis, or even more recently, Taylor Swift. When we listen to music, we understand each other more clearly.The one group that benefits from music the most are older adults, especially ones who have memory loss conditions such as dementia or Alzheimers. These positive outcomes are numerous and give these individuals a new spark for life.Help With Memory LossOne of the reasons people tend to become more depressed as they age is directly related to their ability to recall specific memories. The harder time they have recalling information that previously came easily to them, the more frustrated they are with life.Adding music to their daily therapy could assist with memory loss. This is because the spoken language center of the brain is different from the visual image center.Not only that, music releases endorphins that create more positive emotions within seniors. This gives them a better chance of getting through each day with less stress, less depression, and more motivation to participate.By ensuring your loved one has moments where music that is meaningful to them is played, you are ensuring they will have more progress with their memory. Sometimes its easier to recall something that is linked to a visual or auditory event than if you were asked to retell a memory verbally.Allows for ReminiscingHow many times in your life have you heard a song come on and turned it up because it reminded you of a particular time in your past?More than likely, you have a moment like that almost daily. The same can be said for folks with Alzheimers or dementia.Hearing a song that they knew as a child whether it was always played in their home or they sang it in church, is most likely to evoke memories that are otherwise unattainable.Being taken back to that particular moment in time could be extremely positive for your loved one. It might give them a certain peace about them that nothing else can create. Or it reminds them that they have lived an eventful life and still have the ability to create more memories.Exercises the BrainThere are ways that music helps memory loss without being directly linked to the recovery of memories. Similar to exercise, music activates multiple parts of the brain and body.While simply listening to music exercises the recollection and visualization parts of the brain, playing the music yourself strengthens the cognitive and logical thinking parts of the brain.It requires an individual to physically move their fingers properly to produce the music while their brain reads the musical notes on the page. Both of these actions have to occur in tandem, which in turn creates new pathways in their brain to make playing music easier.These skills translate beyond music and allow your loved ones to gain more confidence in their abilities to face the challenges of aging head-on.Music Creates RoutinesWhen you incorporate music into your seniors daily schedule, it can help them to create a memory. As memory loss becomes more prevalent in their life, one of the first things to go is their daily routine.It becomes harder and harder for them to remember if they have done a specific daily activity because their brain connections are shutting down. However, as we stated above, music creates new neural pathways which allow memories to be recovered but also created in new ways.By attaching certain daily activities to a particular song, your loved one will have an easier time remembering their day and whether or not they participated in important daily tasks such as taking medicine or eating.While these activities and routines may still disappear as their memory loss progresses, adding music will help slow the progression and make them more comfortable, which ultimately is what you want for your loved one.Better Quality of LifeOverall, the benefit of adding music therapy to your aging loved ones life cant be understated. Music adds so much joy and positivity to the world around it.As Shakespeare said, music directly correlates to lasting memories centered around love. Music makes us feel as though we are safe, understood, and never alone, which can all greatly enrich your seniors experience with aging and memory loss.Accessible Home Health Care is dedicated to staying on top of the latest therapies and offers options regarding music therapy to those with memory loss. We also have other tips on incorporating music into your loved ones daily life.Contact us today to discover all we can do for your family.

A recent study of elderly patients and hospital readmissions has shown that approximately 23% of patients end up back in the hospital due to a lack of home support following the initial admittance. This typically leads to errors in medication management, disregard for doctors orders, and potential injuries due to balance issues.We always want what is best for our loved ones but dont always know how to handle their needs. This is why seeking assistance for senior care is vitally important to your seniors continued good health.Home care can improve your seniors recovery and everyday health. Understanding the benefits of such care could make this significant family decision a bit easier to handle.Why Home Care is ImportantSo, why is home care the suggested solution for senior post-hospitalization care? Having someone there to oversee your loved ones care once they return from the hospital helps them follow all the post-stay instructions.Not only that, but home care also helps keep seniors motivated to keep their health in check. Being admitted into the hospital for any reason is disappointing and can cause anxiety.Having someone to assist once your senior makes it home can help settle that uneasy feeling. Its always easier to stay on track when you arent alone in your new normal.Prevent Errors in Medication ManagementA big issue for our senior loved ones once they are released from the hospitals care is medications. Even patients who are as mentally sharp as can be will struggle with keeping up with a new medication regimen.For some seniors, the challenge lies in their inability to remember when or if theyve taken their prescribed medications. With home care, caregivers can keep track of medications and ensure your loved one is taking what they are supposed to be taking when they are supposed to be taking it.Having someone provide reminders to take medications as recommended immediately after being released allows for a smoother transition home, especially for seniors who are living independently.Following Doctors Instructions for Post-Hospitalization CareWhile struggling to follow a doctors directions isnt exclusive to seniors, the issue does make it more likely that your loved one will be readmitted to the hospital. Doctors give instructions on what your loved ones limitations are after being ill or what nutritional changes your loved one needs to make.Preventative care includes paying attention to the doctors instructions, which can cause anxiety in some folks. These requests allow the continued good health of your senior no matter the circumstances or health challenges they experienced. However, it can feel overwhelming if the senior lives alone or is fully responsible for their care.Home care will allow these instructions to be enacted as requested. Having a caregiver around to lend a helping hand will take the burden off your senior and enable them to focus on their recovery and mental health instead.Making the Environment Safe For BalanceA significant cause of hospital readmissions is seniors trying to move around their homes as if they hadnt been ill. This can lead to falling because their center of gravity and balance are off, whether because of medications or still recovering from procedures or previous injuries.With home care, you can rely on a trained caregiver to assess your loved ones home before they return. This can give you a picture of what hazards need to be dealt with and how the home can be rearranged to make altered mobility more accessible.Having the home ready for your seniors adjusted needs post-hospital stay will make the transition seamless and smooth. Your loved one wont have to feel like their lives have changed too much and still feel independent enough to move about within their comfort zone.Ensuring Proper Nutrition and Daily CareAnother primary concern once seniors are released from a hospital stay is ensuring their daily routines, self-care, and eating habits arent altered to the point of concern. Whether its because your loved one has a diet change per their doctors instructions or their mobility is compromised due to their stay, having another set of hands around to assist could be extremely beneficial.A home care plan that includes looking after your seniors nutritional and daily care needs is vital to ensuring they keep a positive mindset about their recovery and keep their chances of ending up back at the hospital for further care at a low percentage. While following doctors instructions and taking proper medications are essential, those arent enough if your loved ones health isnt being kept in check.Accessible Is Your Helping HandOur caregivers have been trained in many areas related to senior care. We know how challenging hospital stays can be for families, especially if you arent able to give yourself entirely to their recovery.Allow our caregivers to lend a hand in your loved ones post-hospital recovery. Our services range from medication management to transitional/recovery care to full-time in-home assistance. Whatever your family needs, we provide peace of mind.

  Self-care is an important part of everyones mental health, especially seniors. As we get older, our health might not always be at its best, and it can become easier to feel a lack of independence, which can harm mental health.There are many ways that seniors can participate in self-care. All of them are easy enough to do and require only as much or as little as our loved ones can handle. Weve compiled a list of some simple tips to keep seniors on the road to positivity and health. Knowing what your senior loves and cherishes the most will help determine how you can help them participate in self-care.Types of Self-CareThere are many different ways seniors can keep themselves active and happy. Many people think that self-care only means things that physically take care of someone. However, self-care can also be activities that simply bring people joy. For seniors, that can be physical activities, relaxing with a good book, or hanging out with some family or friends. Check out our list below for some helpful ideas to help your senior loved ones find those nuggets of joy in their everyday lives.ExerciseThe best way someone can look out for themselves is by taking care of their body. One of the ways to accomplish this is through exercise. For seniors, that can be tough, especially if they struggle with bodily autonomy. The great news is that exercise can be any body movement that keeps your body agile. For example, walking is a great way to stay active. Sources like the CDC recommend that adults 65 and older walk about 30 minutes daily. Yoga is also an effective, non-strenuous activity that can increase mental well-being. Eating HealthyHealthy eating is great for both mind and body. We can give ourselves a bit of self-care by making sure that the food we put into our bodies is the best food available. Seniors especially need to be sure they are eating well to give their bodies the nutrients it needs to maintain. Eating a balanced diet doesnt mean we cant have fun with what we eat. It just means we think kindly of ourselves when planning our meals. Skin CareTaking care of your outer body, such as your skin, can also help you take care of your inner body, such as your mind. Making a daily routine of applying lotions to our skin helps keep our bodies healthy and gives us a moment to pause and take a break from the world around us. This routine can help us have a more positive mind and become more relaxed. Our skin care can be something we do at the start of the day to get us on the right track for success or at the end of our day to help us relax before going to sleep.Good Sleep/RelaxationEveryone knows that good sleep and good health go hand-in-hand. If you dont get enough sleep, your physical and mental health suffers. It is suggested that we get at least 8 hours of sleep a night to be fully refreshed for the day. Sleep isnt enough on its own. We have to also go into the day with a relaxed mindset. This means doing tasks that increase mindfulness and relaxation. One of the ways we can do this is by participating in meditation. For seniors who struggle with relaxing, a helpful tip might be to try breathing exercises or yoga. This is a simple way to make big mindfulness changes.NatureSpending time in nature helps more than just someones mental health. Being in the sunshine or around flowers and greenery can also be good for our physical health. Research has shown that being outside helps alleviate stress and worry as well as reduce anger and sadness. People who spend time in parks or out hiking through the woods/forests are more likely to be cooperative and empathetic. Even something as simple as gardening can brighten a seniors spirits and put them in a better mood for the day.Plans with Loved OnesOne of the easiest ways to practice self-care is by making plans with people who mean the most to you. Being surrounded by love and support is one of the best ways to turn anyones mental health around. These plans can give seniors something to look forward to and alleviate any stress that may come up as part of everyday living. Its one of those self-care items that can be done with or without leaving home, which is even more exciting.JournalingAs we get older, it can become easier to forget the things in our lives that bring us joy. One way seniors can take care of themselves is to start a gratitude journal. This encourages them to focus on the positive instead of the negative. It keeps their focus on the things going great instead of what isnt meeting their expectations.Start a New Hobby or Revisit Old OnesHobbies are something that anyone can find joy in. These activities can be something seniors havent done in a while or simply something new. Putting together a puzzle, finishing a crossword, or even knitting something for a loved one can be something seniors do to pass the time and keep their minds sharp. These activities provide serotonin which in turn relaxes worries and anxieties. Focusing on a task can provide your loved ones with some much-needed me time.How Can We Help Our Loved Ones?There are many ways we can help our loved ones stay on the positive path in life. If you believe that your older loved ones are experiencing depression or having a negative self-outlook, being there and reaching out can help them find joy. Being there for your loved ones to encourage them or even give them ideas for how they can participate in self-care is the greatest gift you can give them. They may not be receptive to your suggestions, but never give up on trying to encourage and include them. Eventually, they will start to actively take on these self-care activities themselves. Making it a family thing may help them be more open to trying these activities.If you arent physically able to be there for your loved ones and encourage them daily, enlist others who can. This could simply mean asking their in-home caretaker to try new activities to encourage them multiple times a week. Accessible loves helping your elderly loved ones feel empowered to engage in self-care, whether at home or in the community. There is no wrong way to self-care as long as you do it.

Finding activities to do outdoors is key to keeping our senior loved ones happy and healthy as spring and summer approach. In fact, one activity in particular is especially fun to engage in as winter turns into spring. We are talking about bird watching.No matter where you live, there is always a chance of finding some species of bird in your yard, neighborhood, or local parks and walking trails. Finding the time to research what birds to look out for and then taking time to find them results in a variety of positive benefits to seniors, both physically and mentally.Here are a few key benefits to keep in mind as you start to plan fun activities for the nice weather upon us.Physical BenefitsGets You OutdoorsThe most common way to participate in bird watching involves going outside and walking around or sitting down somewhere to find birds. This physical activity gets your loved one outside and reaping the benefits of being in the sunshine amongst nature.There is something naturally calming about the natural world. By going to parks and walking trails to find birds, seniors are taking advantage of this calming effect. It encourages them to maybe stay outside longer than they would doing other activities.Sometimes, a bit of fresh air and some Vitamin D from the sun is all a person needs to shift their whole mood and outlook on life. It also helps your body to stay in peak shape and gives you the energy necessary to be physically active.Keeps You FitAs stated above, being outside to participate in bird watching will naturally lead to seniors being more physically active. When out looking for birds, they are likely to walk around quite a bit.Its been proven that even a short walk will jumpstart a positive health journey for people of all ages. Consistent short walks, such as you would get when looking for local birds, help maintain a healthy weight, positive heart health, good blood pressure, and improve your posture.The benefits of being fit and active dont just stop with what can be physically seen or observed. There are also a multitude of mental and emotional benefits as well. After all, a bit of sun goes a long way to improve your overall health and mood. Imagine what adding some walking to that will do.Emotional BenefitsCan Be Done AnywhereWhile the physical aspect of bird watching can be a tremendous benefit, seniors who arent able to leave their homes can still benefit from this kind of activity. The beauty of bird watching is that if you have a chair or bed and a window, more than likely, you can observe birds from the comfort of your home.Being limited to your home isnt as restrictive for bird watchers as youd think. If their windows are able to be opened, seniors can still hear the beautiful sounds of the birds as they twitter about and sing. Being indoors doesnt limit anyone from having the full bird watching experience.Some other ways you can participate in bird watching include watching video streams of bird watchers from around the world, which allows seniors to observe birds they wouldnt get to see otherwise. And on those colder or hotter days, even the more active seniors can benefit from watching birds behind closed windows.Helps You Practice MindfulnessBird watching is an activity that requires patience and determination. You have to be able to handle waiting quietly for long periods of time to potentially see a bird on your list.This waiting period is a perfect opportunity for seniors to work on their mindfulness skills. While waiting for birds to appear, they can practice breathing techniques and clear their minds of any negative thoughts.The joy created when seeing a bird youve been looking for helps to further the benefits of these mindfulness practices. Seniors who work on their mindfulness will be able to fully enjoy the positivity once the bird does appear.Relieves Stress and AnxietyBeing outside in nature has the natural ability to calm down our whole bodies. So what does this mean for seniors who wish to participate in bird watching?It means they will soon start to see their stress and anxiety levels diminish. Being near singing birds has a positive effect on our minds and bodies, creating a feeling of relaxation which directly correlates with the level of stress and anxiety we experience.Seniors can go to their window or sit in a park to watch the birds and let the sounds of nature ease the tension in their bodies. Getting rid of negative emotions will have a long-term positive effect on other areas of your loved ones health.Improves Your CognitionA great way for seniors with memory challenges to work on their cognition is to observe the world around them. This allows them to pick up on patterns and visual cues, as well as improve their memory.Bird watching is a great way to get seniors out of their comfort zone and engage with positive brain activities. Observing a birds song has a similar effect on dementia as listening to a song on the radio does. Likewise, watching and interacting with birds as they participate in their daily activities helps seniors stay more mentally alert and work on their reflex skills.Taking the time to use the natural world as a gateway into your loved ones locked mind is a fun and engaging treatment plan. Youll be amazed at what theyll soon be able to do just from watching birds a few times a week.Social BenefitsCreates a Bonding ExperienceOne of the challenges seniors and their families face is the onset of age-related loneliness. To try and circumvent your family losing the bond you love so much, its best to find activities that the whole family can participate in.Bird watching doesnt require any skills besides eyesight and recognition. This means people of all ages can participate in the activity. Take time to plan a family outing where your senior loved one can take even the youngest ones on a journey to find a beautiful bird.Family bonding is always important and kept alive by finding things you all enjoy. Who doesnt love finding colorful birds and listening to them sing? Even if the younger ones arent as engaged with the bird finding, they might find the surrounding trees and flowers fascinating.Allows You To Meet New PeopleSeniors can also make friends through their bird watching endeavors. Many towns have senior-centered bird watching groups. Helping seniors find one they can be a part of will help tremendously with preventing loneliness and depression.We all just want to know that someone else out there cares about the same things that we do. Going on a group outing with fellow bird watchers will engage seniors in social activities while also expanding their understanding of the birds they are looking for. One of the best ways to learn is through the teachings and experiences of others.As spring and summer roll around, Accessible is more than happy to help you and your loved ones find outdoor activities that best suit them.

  For individuals diagnosed with diabetes, managing care can involve quite a few things to remember. As we age, these things become even more vital to our continued successful health maintenance.The most important aspect of our health management that we should always adhere to is exercise. No matter our age, being able to engage in physical and cardiovascular activities ensures that our diabetes remains manageable.What does this mean for seniors? For starters, it means keeping an open dialogue with your or your loved ones doctor to navigate what your body can handle in the way of physical exertion. Knowing where to start is half the challenge.Once you know your loved ones capabilities, you can encourage daily movement that translates into better health for them overall. With their diabetes under control, the other parts of their health, physical and mental, will fall into place.How Exercise Helps Manage DiabetesWith diabetes, the main concern is ensuring your body remains healthy and has no long-term adverse effects. Common health complications range from heart disease, chronic kidney issues, nerve damage, and other mental health concerns.How your loved one approaches diabetes depends on whether your loved one is Type 1 or Type 2. As many know, Type 1 is a direct result of your pancreas being unable to properly break down sugars in your blood, whereas Type 2 can go into remission with the right combination of diet and exercise.Therefore, one of the most significant factors in successfully maintaining positive health with diabetes comes from consistent exercise. Knowing the benefits of such actions will go a long way toward better understanding the why behind it and getting your loved one to participate actively.So, how does exercise help you and your loved one manage your diabetes? Here are some of the ways.Increases insulin sensitivity which makes the body more likely to absorb the hormone properlyControl blood sugar levelsKeeps blood pressure within the healthy rangeLowers LDL (bad) cholesterolHelps maintain a healthy weightImproved balance and flexibilitySleep betterFeel less stressedKeeping up with your overall physical health will, in turn, help you and your loved one manage your diabetes. After all, diabetes is a disease that affects all areas of your body.The next step toward this healthy goal is understanding what exercises will best benefit you and your loved ones.Exercise Suggestions for SeniorsA significant concern for many seniors revolves around mobility. Therefore, many are hesitant to remain active, fearing they might further hurt themselves.The good news is that you can easily find an exercise routine that works for you or your loved ones mobility strengths by communicating with your doctors and care team. Every exercise suggestion below can be adjusted based on your capabilities.Walking/Dancing  This exercise suggestion aims to get your whole body up and moving around. Your body will not only reap the benefits of keeping your muscles active, but this activity can help maintain a healthy weight, ensure better heart health, and lower blood sugar levels.Yoga  This is another exercise that gets your body moving while also helping to lower stress levels, which in turn helps manage diabetes care. Yoga helps reduce blood sugar levels, which can jumpstart your ability to maintain a healthy weight and continued body flexibility.Swimming  Getting in the water to exercise is accessible to just about anyone, regardless of abilities, and allows the health benefits from walking or yoga to be seen more effectively. The water makes movements low-impact, especially on your joints, which can ensure that flexibility and mobility increase.Daily Chores/Activities  This might be the easiest way for you or your loved one to get the exercise needed to manage your diabetes on the most basic level. Moving your body in any kind of way will help. Therefore, actively participating in everyday activities can go a long way toward positive health.No matter what kind of exercise you or your loved one chooses, make sure it remains consistent and achievable. It is recommended that you achieve 150 minutes of exercise a week, but do what works best for you.Diabetes care starts with good nutrition, exercise, and positive mental health. Knowing how to achieve each of these, especially exercise, means your loved one will continue to live a happy and healthy life.Keeping the Motivation AliveExercise is easy enough to achieve as long as you put the time in to discover the best course of action. However, individuals with diabetes are often working against their own mental health to stay on top of the proper care.One of the significant side effects of diabetes is depression and other negative mental health roadblocks. Therefore, it is essential to remember this when setting up an exercise routine for yourself or your senior loved one.You can ensure that motivation remains above all else in many ways. First and foremost is getting an exercise buddy to keep your loved one accountable for their daily movement goals.Having someone there to ensure accountability will go a long way toward your loved one maintaining a positive mental health outlook and their diabetes overall. This buddy can be someone who also has diabetes or at least knows what having diabetes means for you or your loved one.A professional caregiver can often be a great partner in focusing on personal health and wellness, especially regarding chronic conditions like diabetes. Many of our home health aides at Accessible Home Health Care can address various medical and non-medical needs, suitable for helping seniors remain active and get the assistance they need.If you believe your loved one would benefit from a caregiver to help them manage daily living with diabetes, let us know. We will work with you to arrange care in the comfort of their home.

The internet is everywhere and a big part of life for everyone. Navigating potential dangers can be pretty easy if you ensure you are participating in good internet safety practices.However, for our senior loved ones, the internet might be a place that confuses and overwhelms them. Ensuring you are there to reassure them that they are safe to navigate this unknown can go a long way toward keeping your loved one safe.Staying Safe In A Plugged-In WorldSo, what exactly does internet safety look like today? To put it simply, its being aware of your habits and your information to ensure they arent compromised by hackers or scammers.Seniors are the typical target for those looking to cause harm because they are generally more trusting. Maintaining awareness without scaring them is a delicate balance and one that can easily be obtained.In this blog, we will help you navigate internet safety for seniors, from the basics to scams to staying safe on social media.Remember Security BasicsNo matter what your senior is using the internet for, there are some basic rules to be aware of to keep them safe. From the time they log in to the time they close out, seniors should always be aware of these tips.Create Strong PasswordsThe first step toward ensuring your loved ones safety on the internet is in how they log in. Whether you are concerned about their social media safety or just general online account safety, having a strong password can make a significant difference.Passwords that are easy to guess, such as Password1 or any combination of sequential letters and numbers, are not advised. These can be easily hacked by people who wish to steal your seniors identity.The best practice for passwords is choosing a phrase embedded with numbers that are easy for your loved one to remember. A basic example could be Red23GreenBlue. This type of password takes a couple of easy-to-remember but unrelated words and adds a few numbers for good measure.Pay attention to the password requirements for each website your loved one is creating a login for, and use this best practice to meet those requirements. Also, be sure that your senior isnt using the same password for every account they have on the internet.Dont Share Passwords/Login InformationWhile it might be easy to want to step in and log in for your senior, if they are cognitively capable of doing it, they should. This will help them remember that they shouldnt share their passwords or logins with anyone.If they get in the habit of thinking it is safe to share their login information with their loved ones or their in-home caregiver, they are likely to trust someone on the internet with that information as well. Its good practice to encourage them to remember their own passwords and keep them safe from being stolen.Knowing a seniors login information just makes a hacker or scammers job easier. Stolen identity happens when individuals trust someone they shouldnt with information that shouldnt be shared.Dont Share Basic Information FreelyWhen on social media or other websites, dont give more information than is securely asked for. Once your account has been created, no more information, such as the names of your children, spouse, or siblings or the name of the town you live in or grew up in, should be shared.If someone approaches your loved one asking them for this information, teach them to be wary of such requests.Only Use Reputable SitesAvoiding websites that arent reputable or secure is another way to increase your seniors safety on the internet. An easy way to see if a website is secure is by looking at the URL. If it doesnt have an s after the http, then the website isnt secure.Another way to be sure is to review a website with your senior to see if everything seems good. If the website doesnt seem well put together or doesnt have much information on it, chances are things arent secure.The best bet for your senior is for them only to visit websites they know or recognize. When shopping, stick to the big ones, such as Amazon, Wal-Mart, and brand-centered websites. For making appointments or banking, be sure the links you use are directly given to you by that institution.Make a Habit of Keeping Track of Your FinancialsSpeaking of banking, its also a good habit to keep track of your online financials. This allows your senior to be on top of the money in their account.Often, hackers use insecure websites to gain access to financial information. Therefore, assisting your senior with all their online purchases and maintaining their online financials will ensure their identity is never stolen.By checking their accounts regularly, they are likely to catch fraudulent charges. The quicker they report them, the more secure their financial accounts will be. That way, their accounts can be locked up and their finances secured.Look Out For ScamsUse Credit Cards More Than Debit CardsMost peoples first instinct when making purchases is to pull out their bank cards, however, the best practice when making online purchases is to use a credit card instead.This ensures that all purchases you make are secure. If your purchase is, in fact, a scam, your financial information wont be compromised.Research Organizations and Shops Before Making Donations or PurchasesTo prevent your loved ones financial information from being compromised, a best practice would be to do your research. By knowing who they are sending money to or purchasing from, your loved one is less likely to be scammed out of their hard-earned money.Its hard to know who everyone is these days, but the great thing about the internet is that there is always a way to find out whether or not a person or business is who they say they are.This practice also applies to people who send requests for money via private messaging on social media sites and email. If your loved one doesnt know who they are sending the money to, the best practice is not to send it.Social Media SafetyDont Post Everything On Social MediaAs social media becomes a bigger part of everyones lives, many older generations feel as though they should be using it as a newsletter of sorts for their friends and family. However, that isnt always the safest way to approach posting to the general public.While giving little life updates is perfectly fine and often encouraged on sites such as Facebook and Instagram, your senior needs to be aware that there is a limit to what information they should post. Not everything you do or see should be posted online.Its an internet safety rule because these snippets of information could make it easier for a senior to have their identity stolen.Use Privacy SettingsThe biggest rule of thumb for navigating social media safety is to make great use of the available privacy settings. Websites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Xformerly known as Twitterhave extensive options, allowing users to limit who sees their posts and can comment on them.Its important that you go through these settings with your senior loved one and help guide them to make the most protected options for their social media profiles. This gives them control over their information and allows them a bit more freedom on what they can safely post about.Report Any Abusive Behavior You EncounterOne final bit of advice might seem like a no-brainer, but it is actually a problem that often goes overlooked. Monitor your loved ones social media usage to ensure they are aware when they are possibly being abused or bullied, and guide them to report it.Just like with physical elder abuse, social media bullying and abuse can often be tolerated by your loved one because they dont want to cause any more trouble. This is why people on social media will target seniors from time to time and take advantage of them.Basic awareness is all you need to prevent and protect your loved one from such incidents. There isnt a need to make your senior feel terrified of being on social media, but it doesnt hurt to be cognizant of the possibilities.Let Accessible Help YouIf you are unsure about something regarding how your senior navigates the internet, let us know and we can assist you. If you feel your senior could benefit from any of our in-home care services, contact us.Your seniors safety is our number one priority.

When your loved one reaches the point where a professional caregiver is needed, that person becomes an extension of your family. Without their loving care, your senior wouldnt be able to live their life to the fullest. Caregivers are there day and night to ensure your loved one remains safe, healthy, and happy. So, it means a lot for caregivers to know how big of an impact they are making by showing appreciation.Now is the perfect time to show them how much you see what they do for your family. Start the new year with an extra dose of love for the person who helps your loved one daily.The big question is how. How can you show one of the most important people in your seniors life that they matter to them and your family? Here are some helpful tips to get you started.Write Them a Nice Card or LetterOne of the easiest and most direct ways to show a caregiver how much you appreciate their work for your family is by writing them a nice card or letter. Putting your thoughts about their efforts into your gift lets them know specifically how they help you and your family.Your experiences are unique to your family, so your gift of appreciation should also reflect that. A caregiver will always remember the words you wrote to them, telling them what was inside your heart more readily.Combining this idea with any of our other suggestions could add that extra level of personalization you are looking for to really drive home how much they mean to you.Gift Them Their Favorite TreatsWho doesnt love a bit of love and appreciation told through food? Many cultures believe that the best way to show love is through feeding someone.When we are at our lowest, most overwhelmed, or need a quick break to reset, we often reach for our favorite snacks to help us manage. By gifting your loved ones caregiver a basket of their favorite treats, you tell them that you not only appreciate them but also know them personally.Giving someone their favorite foods shows the thoughtfulness and care that went into the gift. After all, you will know what foods to get if youve taken the time to get to know them beyond the service they offer.Taking the time to cook them a home-cooked meal or taking them out to dinner to say thank you shows the same level of care and consideration. Whatever route you think your familys caregiver will appreciate the most is the one you should consider.Create a Self-Care KitIf you dont feel comfortable with gifting food, there are other options available. The easiest of them is to create a basket of self-care items that they can use on their own time at their own leisure.This allows you to show appreciation without putting too much pressure on your shoulders or theirs. It is a gift filled with love and care that has no time constraints or immediacy, so it can be enjoyed when the caregiver needs it most.Some things to consider for a self-care basket are bath bombs, bath oils, candles, snacks, activities such as their favorite magazine or puzzle book, a book to read, or other comfort items such as socks. If you need some other ideas of what your familys caregiver might appreciate in a self-care kit, take the time to listen when they talk to you about their lives outside of work.Consider getting them a gift certificate for a facial, massage, or manicure on their own time. All of these suggestions are perfect to give your caregiver the love and support they deserve, even when they arent on the clock for your family.Include Caregivers in Gift Giving During HolidaysGiving thoughtful gifts to your caregiver for events and milestones is a nice gesture. Coordinating to ensure that holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries dont go unnoticed adds an extra layer of appreciation.By adding them to your gift-giving list during the holidays, you are showing them that their hard work and dedication are vital to your family. It fosters a positive relationship between you and your loved ones caregiver, which in turn ensures they remain happy in their position.Everyone involved benefits when a little extra love and consideration is shown, especially during days that mean a bit more than others.Accessible Appreciates Everything Our Caregivers DoThese suggestions can be easily executed without help from your caregivers organization. However, looping them in can help coordinate bigger plans more smoothly.At Accessible, we believe that you are part of our family. Therefore, we know how much you appreciate what our caregivers do for you and want you to make the most of showing that appreciation.Let us help you coordinate any plans for them. Contact us today.

Every year on October 12th, we honor those who face the challenges of arthritis every day. It is a time to bring awareness to the condition and encourage others to be compassionate about their friends and family who might be diagnosed with arthritis.We can support our loved ones by helping them find fun ways of managing arthritis. One significant way is finding workarounds for their favorite hobbies they might currently feel they cant participate in.The Importance of HobbiesNo matter our age, we always look for ways to enjoy life. Just because weve gotten older or our abilities have changed doesnt mean we should forget about those things that spark joy.As we age, those activities we do for fun can help us. Hobbies allow our brains to be used in ways that arent normally activated during typical everyday activities. These activities also typically move your body in ways you dont do much on average.So, as your loved one ages and the aches and pains of arthritis get more challenging, encouraging them to find new ways to participate in their hobbies could help. Even though moving joints can be painful, the more often your loved one flexes those parts of their body, the easier it will be on their overall pain levels.Simple Adjustments to Make Activities More FunNow that we understand just how essential hobbies can be for individuals facing physical challenges, such as arthritis, how do we ensure they can participate in them? The answer might be more simple than you think.Many people are looking for accommodations to do activities such as knitting, playing cards, reading, gardening, or cooking. The good news is your loved one isnt alone. Better yet, they might even be able to find a local group with similar issues to offer support and have activity get-togethers more on that later.Here are some simple modifications your loved one can make to ensure theyll still enjoy their favorite activities.GardeningMaking accommodations for arthritis when gardening is as easy as creating raised gardening beds and using tools with long handles and soft grips to avoid having to bend low to the ground. You can also encourage your loved one to work with low-maintenance plants to make adjustments if they are having a flare-up day where tending to their garden isnt possible.CookingSome tools that might be helpful when cooking with arthritis are those that either do the work for them or have soft handles to help a seniors grip. If cooking is too strenuous on their body, finding alternatives such as cooking together, compiling a cookbook for family and friends, or participating in community meals that are more about socialization and bonding over food than making the meals themselves might be helpful.YogaWith the right approach, yoga offers a gentle, low-impact exercise that helps individuals tune into their bodies while keeping joints and muscles warm and flexible. If your loved one already loves yoga, this activity doesnt require much adjusting for arthritis. And if your loved one is looking for lower-impact activities to replace others, such as walking or hiking, then yoga can be a solution.Knitting & CrochetingIf your loved one crochets, consider ergonomic crochet hooks with bigger handles, which will help them better position their hands. For knitting, a few alternatives are square knitting needles or a knitting loom, which are gentler on their hands and allow them to complete projects with less of a challenge. Crocheting and knitting can also be made more manageable with the use of a yarn holder to keep projects organized and contained.Card GamesWhen your hands are riddled with arthritis pain, holding something as small and thin as playing cards can be tricky; luckily, your loved one can switch to using jumbo cards. Or if their card game doesnt allow that option, they can put cards into a card holder for ease of use.Arts & CraftsBrushes with bigger handles or spring-loaded scissors can make intricate movements for arts and crafts fun again. However, these arent the only modifications that can be found in crafting circles. Seniors with arthritis can also utilize padded tweezers, large rubber stamp pressure tools, and spray paint trigger handles to make actions that require precise dexterity easier.ReadingWhen it comes to reading books, two different options are available to your loved one. The first is a tool that allows those with arthritis to hold their books with less strain on their joints. It is called a page holder and can be found on Etsy or Amazon. Or, if your loved one cant even bear the weight of holding a book, they can switch to listening to audiobooks.WritingFinally, if your loved one loves to spend time each day writing or journaling, there are solutions to help them avoid more aches and pains. The obvious choice is having them use technology to their advantage through typing instead of writing by hand or using voice-to-text. However, if they are still able to and enjoy writing by hand, getting them grips for their pencil can go a long way toward enjoying their hobby without an increase in discomfort.Encouragement and Participation Go A Long WayWhile knowing how to adjust to your loved ones hobbies is integral to sparking joy in their day, its not the only way you can help. Most importantly, your senior will look to you for assistance with motivation and getting started with these new modifications.Encouraging them to try new things or to adjust their mindset regarding their beloved hobbies is as easy as doing the activity with them or gifting them the necessary tools. Showing that you are excited about them finding an outlet for joy can make a difference in how your senior will react to the change.If you cant spare the extra time to encourage your loved one to keep up with their hobbies, an excellent alternative is local hobby groups. These groups are helpful for motivating your senior regarding a hobby and can also provide emotional support. Often, when dealing with this chronic condition, feeling connected to others is the key to managing arthritis in a more positive light.If you need tips on approaching these changes in your loved ones life or want assistance with their daily care, contact Accessible Home Health Care.

  Exercise is necessary for everyone! Research has shown that regular exercise with the help of a physical therapist can improve the quality of life for Parkinsons patients. As the second most common neurological disorder, Parkinsons disease affects a lot of patients and their families. Many of these families are seeking in home physical therapy services to help their loved ones manage their symptoms.Knowing your loved one is getting the best physical therapy at home can help put your mind at ease. Receiving care from the comfort of home gives your loved one the ability to live their life to the fullest. To ensure your loved one is getting the care they need, here are the steps you should know to make sure youve found a good physical therapist.Seek a Licensed PractitionerOnly a licensed physical therapist or physical therapy assistant should be providing in home care to your loved one. Remember, state licensure is required in the U.S. for physical therapy practices, and each state has an agency that oversees regulations. If you have questions about licensing or would like to verify that your loved ones physical therapist has a license, you can do so by contacting the in home care provider or checking the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.Know Who You Need on Your TeamLicensed physical therapists and physical therapy assistants perform many of the same basic responsibilities, and both can be of great help to patients. However, their level of education and responsibilities do differ. Understanding the duties and education requirements to be a practicing physical therapist or physical therapy assistant can help you feel confident when selecting a caregiver you can trust to provide great care for your loved one.Heres the breakdown of the educational requirements to be a physical therapist or a physical therapy assistant and their responsibilities:EducationPhysical Therapist (PTPostgraduate professional degreesMost have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)DPT degree generally requires prerequisites like anatomy, biology, chemistry, and physiologyPhysical Therapist AssistantGenerally, states require an associates degree from an accredited physical therapy programPrograms involve first-hand clinical experience and academic courseworkCertification and LicensingPhysical Therapist (PTStates require PTs to have a physical therapist license to practiceMust pass the National Physical Therapy Examination or state-administered examSome PTs choose to be certified in a clinical specialty, and need to pass additional examsPhysical Therapist AssistantMust graduate from an accredited physical therapy assistance programNeed to have passed the Physical National Physical Therapy ExamSome states require an additional state-administered examDutiesPhysical Therapist (PTDiagnose and deliver care to individualsDevelop rehabilitation plans for patientsTeach stretches, exercises, and hands-on therapyPhysical Therapist AssistantDetermine the level of patient injuries and report findings to a physical therapistEducate the patient about what to do post-treatmentHelp with exercises and stretchesInstruct patients how to use equipment and devices Ask About the Therapists Experience with ParkinsonsAll licensed physical therapists should be able to assist Parkinsons patients, but some are more prepared than others. During an interview, you should ask the home care provider or physical therapist about their experience with Parkinsons disease. For example, ask the physical therapist if they have a history of treating people with neurological disorders, have completed a residency or fellowship in neurological physical therapy, or have achieved additional certifications for Parkinsons care.Here are some examples of certifications that are available for physical therapists for Parkinsons that you should ask about:LSTV BIG ProgramLSVT LOUD ProgramPWR!Moves Trained TherapistParkinsons Disease: A Practical Approach to Evaluation & Treatment for the Physical TherapistMake Sure Your Therapist is Up-to-DateSince there is no standard treatment for Parkinsons disease, treatment is based on your loved ones symptoms. New methods for how to manage the symptoms of Parkinsons are constantly on the horizon, so you should ask the physical therapist how they stay up-to-date and how they use best practices to provide care.Good physical therapists will be able to answer these questions by naming scientific journals they read, courses they have taken, and certifications they have received. Great physical therapists will be able to answer your questions and also explain to you how their up-to-date knowledge and methods will benefit your loved one.Find a Compassionate PersonAside from their training and credentials, you should look for a physical therapist who has compassion and fosters good working relations with the whole care team, especially you and your loved one. You want a physical therapist who not only knows how to handle the specifics of Parkinsons treatment, but also takes account of the whole person, not just their specific condition or injury. A good physical therapist will listen to your loved ones needs, follow through with the plan of care, and keep you updated on their treatment.If your loved one has a physical therapist you are unhappy with, you have the right to choose a new one. In the U.S., you and your loved one have the right to contact a physical therapist for in home care without a physicians referral and select one that is right for your needs. If you are interested in finding a new trained and certified physical therapist or physical therapy assistant to provide in home physical therapy, we can help.Contact us to get in touch with a licensed and compassionate physical therapist for Parkinsons care.

  Aging is a part of life, and often, children are left responsible for caring for their aging parents or loved ones. Caregiving adds a layer of frustration and stress to any relationship. The key to keeping your relationship loving and happy is to know when you need a helping hand.Deciding to hire a caregiver isnt a decision one goes into lightly. So, when is the best time to take that leap?Signs Your Loved One Needs HelpIdeally, we all want to remain independent until the day we die, but for most individuals, that isnt possible. There comes a point when we have to look at our aging loved ones and determine whether or not they are functioning well on their own.Physical Care DiminishesThis means determining if they are performing their personal hygiene routine properly. It could be a sign that they are depressed, but it could also be a sign that your senior can no longer independently perform their daily care. Its essential to monitor this behavior to ensure the need for assistance is there and that their lack of hygiene isnt just a temporary issue.Missed MedicationIts well known that seniors may make some kind of medication error at one time or another. Thus, it should be monitored, because if your senior starts making errors with their medication, it could create a problem with their overall health. A missed dose or taking the incorrect amount of medication indicates your loved one needs to be monitored more closely or needs hands-on care for medication management.Unpaid Bills or Spoiled Food In the HomeWhen you visit your loved one, notice whether or not they have many unpaid/unopened bills or a considerable amount of spoiled food in their refrigerator and cupboards. Seeing these indicates that your loved one might be unable to manage their life independently. It could mean they struggle to remember things or lack motivation due to depression to keep on top of things.Issues with Balance and FallingOne challenge your loved one deals with as they age is balance, putting them in danger of falling. If their home isnt equipped with the proper safety measures, they may be unable to continue living independently. Awareness of their abilities and whether mobility has started to decline is essential.Increased Signs of Depression and LonelinessAs humans, we arent meant to live alone and devoid of other humans to interact with socially. As our loved ones age, they often become lonely due to decreased mobility and other health issues preventing them from safely venturing out of their home for social events. This can lead to depression, which interferes with their ability to care for themselves.So What Does This Mean?Recognizing that your loved one needs help is only the first step. There are many other steps to consider along the way. One of the more important ones is regarding who will assist with your loved ones care once they can no longer do it for themselves.While some families can shoulder the responsibility of caring for their loved ones, there is a higher chance of burnout. Being aware of what you can and cannot handle is very important for you and your loved one. All too often, loved ones think that taking on the care of their senior is the only option, and it creates issues within their own lives and the relationship they have with the family member under their care.If the family cant handle the emotional and time considerations of caring for aging loved ones, looking into in-home caregivers is probably an ideal option.Benefits of Selecting an In-Home Care ProviderThe beauty of choosing a caregiver to come into your loved ones home is that it can be for as much or as little time as your family needs. Recognizing that your loved one needs a helping hand doesnt mean they have to give up their independence entirely.Most in-home caregivers are trained to encourage your loved ones independence and maintain their physical abilities as long as their health cooperates. Putting your trust in caregivers with medical training and the emotional capacity to separate family from duty will give your loved one a better home care experience.Of course, we know that choosing a caregiver comes at a financial cost to the family, no matter how tremendous the emotional payoff can be. Most care agencies, such as Accessible Home Health Care, will work with families to determine exactly how much care their loved one needs and whether or not that is within their budget.The Accessible DifferenceDeciding to select an in-home care agency isnt one that you go into lightly, and having a team that understands that makes all the difference. At Accessible, we have a caregiver match program that ensures whomever your loved one receives care from will be a good fit for the whole family. We also provide various services to ensure that all your needs are met, from respite and companion care to memory loss and long term care.Contact Accessible today to discuss how our caregivers can help your family.

As we get older, our lives sometimes slow down, especially when our routines change due to retirement, medical concerns, or simply reaching a new phase in life. One way to combat all these changes is by focusing on the things around us that bring us joy.As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, Happiness is not a goal; its a by-product.We have to enjoy life no matter what it throws usreaching a point where we can look at our challenges and see the beauty and joy within them is the ultimate goal, not the happiness itself.There are many ways to ensure we find happiness within our everyday pursuits. Whether it is through taking time to enjoy nature, pursuing a hobby weve forgotten, or checking in on our friends and family.A Healthy Body Is A Happy BodyOne of the most significant ways we can ensure our continued happiness is through our overall health. The better we treat our bodies, the better we feel.That is why eating right, exercising as much as possible, and making regular trips to the doctor will create happiness in our lives that cant be matched by anything else. Taking control of our health in whatever way we can will work wonders on our bodies and mental happiness.Even with chronic pain or illness, happiness can be found through having a management plan with our doctor. Taking the time to regulate what we cant control will diminish the stress our anxiety can cause our bodies.Mental health plays a big part in ensuring overall happiness; chronic conditions or poor health management can affect it. Being aware of all our challenges and meeting them with positivity and hope can go a long way.Staying Mentally Active Creates PositivityOur social and physical life slowing down doesnt mean we must stop doing anything we love. Continuing to participate in activities and hobbies we enjoy keeps our minds active and ensures that happiness is never far away.Some might think that staying mentally active means participating in mentally challenging activities even if we dont particularly like them. This cant be further from the truth.Doing any kind of activity that requires our minds to send signals to the rest of our body whether it is through body movements or the relaying of information is a mentally active activity.So, if you enjoy going out in nature and enjoying flowers or other forms of nature, add to it by going with a companion and discussing what you know about these plants. If you love to knit, find a group of others who love this activity and do a project together.Another way we can stay mentally active is through part-time work. Sometimes, after we retire, we still need that burst of socialization and routine. Volunteering or working part-time allows us the opportunity without becoming overwhelmed.We can keep our minds and bodies active in many ways that wont add to our anxiety and stress.Family and Friends Keep Us ConnectedOne of the best ways to ensure happiness as we age is by remaining engaged with the world around us. The easiest way to accomplish this is by socializing with family and friends.We spend time with other people all our lives, either through school or work. So when we get older, and these elements of our lives start to fade away, it becomes harder to find opportunities to connect.Remember, happiness isnt a goal; its a by-product of our goal. So, creating a goal to engage with our family and friends a couple of times a month can result in happiness.Suppose you dont have any known opportunities on the horizon that encourage social engagement. In that case, you can take the initiative and invite others to join you in your daily activities.Ask your son or daughter to walk with you at your favorite park. Invite a friend to bake a cake or cook a meal together and then enjoy it over coffee or wine.Simply put, reach out, and you will find others who want to spend time together.Never Take The Little Things for GrantedThere is power in the positive. Taking time daily to remind ourselves that we love our lives and there is joy to be found all around us will give us the motivation to see the small things.If you are looking at your big-picture future and feeling overwhelmed, take a step back, breathe, and then find one thing right in front of you to be optimistic about.It can be that the flowers outside your window have started to bloom. Or that your neighbor stopped to chat with you when you went to get your mail. Or simply that you are alive and well for another day of sunshine and possibilities.Taking stock of the little things in our lives will help diminish the overwhelming anxiety that can come with all those significant changes as we age.Are You Concerned About Your Loved One?Awareness of our loved ones moods and overall demeanor can ensure they remain happy and healthy as they age.If you think your loved one could use a helping hand in their health, there are steps you can take to ensure they get back on track. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by speaking with your loved ones caregiver.The caregivers at Accessible are specially qualified to assist you with maintaining your seniors happiness through health management and social engagement. If you have concerns, let us know, and we can work with you to adjust their routine.

One in four adults in the United States has been diagnosed with a painful joint condition known as arthritis. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.Osteoarthritis is caused by the mechanical wear and tear on the bodys joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the bodys immune system attacks the joints.Helping your loved one with their arthritis management can be one of the most loving things you can do. It shows them they arent alone and are completely understood in their pain.Here are a few ways to be there for your loved one during this challenge.Be There For Them EmotionallyHaving arthritis can be extremely painful and isolating. Its one of the more invisible conditions a person can have, but it can still be debilitating. Knowing they have someone in their corner who loves and supports them can go a long way.Sometimes, the most we can do to ease our loved ones challenges is simply to be there. Taking the time to sit and talk with them can turn a bad day that feels very isolating into a good one, as they feel supported by someone who cares about them.Another way to be there for them emotionally is to inquire about attending their appointments with them. This not only shows them that you support them but that you are also interested in knowing more about their condition.Learn What You Can About ArthritisTo that end, learning more about their condition will grow your understanding and, by extension, your empathetic caregiving abilities. Sometimes, the seemingly small things are what make the most significant difference.Doing your homework and research means your loved one doesnt have to carry the emotional burden of explaining their arthritis pain and management to you. It shows them you care about them so much that you are taking the time to understand their symptoms and therapy options.If you can go to appointments with your loved one, take the time to listen to what the doctor says. Also, ask questions for further understanding. Your loved one might not say it, but they will be grateful knowing they arent alone in learning the ins and outs of arthritis.Communicate and EncourageTalking with our loved ones about their arthritis pain can help them feel seen. It can also ensure that they know how to communicate to others what they are feeling, ultimately assisting their overall arthritis management.Communicating with loved ones about their experiences can be about their pain and what we can do to help them cope with arthritis. Knowing what lines make your loved one uncomfortable if you cross them is a strong way to show you love and respect them.During these moments of communication, you can also encourage your loved one to participate in arthritis management. Encouragement is the simplest thing that can have a lasting impact on their condition.Getting your loved one to move their limbs and joints actively ensures that the flare ups will be more manageable when they do happen. Often, especially with seniors, encouragement from loved ones goes much further than the same statements from medical professionals or therapists.Assist with Small TasksIf your loved one is willing to accept your help, try to assist with little things. These can be tasks around the house or while out and about doing out-of-home activities.Either way, the help will allow your loved one to rest their aching joints and give themselves the space to slow down. To ensure your loved one doesnt ever feel like you are stepping on their toes or making them feel less than, communicate what they might want before you do it.It is natural to want to step in and help ease arthritis pain immediately. However, unprompted help can often cause your loved one to feel negatively about themselves and their abilities.Continue to Include ThemYour loved one is still part of your intimate group of friends and family. Just because they are facing this new medical condition doesnt change that fact.Continue to invite them to events and social get-togethers. It is a surefire way to ensure your loved one never feels isolated or left out. We all want to feel loved and respected, no matter what.If your loved one struggles with movement, ensure the activities you invite them to are adaptable without making them feel singled out or burdensome. If they cant do as many fine motor activities anymore, ensure that your time together doesnt overwhelm them with such actions.Ensuring your loved one is still loved and part of the family is most important.Accessible is Here To HelpIf your loved one has been diagnosed with a form of arthritis and you are unsure how to help them with the pain and management, contact us. Accessible caregivers can help you find resources, therapy, and other management options for you and your loved one.

Ice cream holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans, symbolizing joy, comfort, and nostalgia. Its journey to becoming an iconic treat in the United States dates back to World War II, when it served as a morale booster for troops.During this time, ice cream was more than just a dessert; it became a symbol of home and comfort, a sweet reminder of the good times amidst the harsh realities of war. As a result, generations, including our grandparents and parents, have cherished memories of enjoying ice cream, making it a beloved tradition in many families.This National Ice Cream Day, July 19th, is the perfect occasion to create new memories and bond with the seniors in your life. Here are some delightful ways to spend time with your senior loved one, ensuring they feel loved and cherished.How to Spend Time with Seniors on National Ice Cream DayMake Your Own Ice CreamTheres something incredibly special about making ice cream from scratch. Its a fun activity and an opportunity to learn and share stories. You can find simple ice cream recipes online, many of which require only a few ingredients and some patience. Involve your senior loved one in the processlet them share their favorite flavors or toppings. This hands-on activity is not just about the end product but the joy of creating something together.Create Homemade Ice Cream SandwichesElevate the ice cream experience by making your own ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite cookies and pair them with different ice cream flavors. This can be a fun and interactive way to spend the afternoon. You can even experiment with different combinations and vote on the best one. Its a simple yet delicious way to enjoy National Ice Cream Day while engaging in a creative and tasty project.Visit an Ice Cream ParlorTake a trip down memory lane by visiting a local ice cream parlor. Many of these establishments have been around for decades and often have a nostalgic charm that can bring back fond memories for seniors. Enjoying a scoop (or two) of ice cream in such a setting can be a wonderful way to connect with your senior loved ones. Ask them about their past favorite flavors or memories associated with ice cream parlors. This outing satisfies your sweet tooth and provides a perfect backdrop for storytelling and reminiscing.Host an At-Home Sundae BarSetting up a sundae bar is a fantastic idea if you and your loved ones prefer staying home. Gather a variety of ice cream flavors and an assortment of toppings like sprinkles, chocolate syrup, nuts, fruits, and whipped cream. Let everyone create their own sundaes. This activity can be a lot of fun and allows for creativity. Its also a great way to cater to everyones preferences and dietary needs. Plus, making sundaes together can spark conversations and laughter, creating lasting memories.Enjoy an Ice Cream Truck ExperienceIce cream trucks are a nostalgic treat for many seniors. If an ice cream truck is in your neighborhood, consider timing your visit to coincide with its route. The sound of the ice cream truck jingle can bring back happy memories for your grandparents and senior relatives, making this experience extra special. Enjoying ice cream from a truck adds an element of surprise and spontaneity to the day.Making Memories Year-RoundSpending time with grandparents and seniors is incredibly valuable. They possess a wealth of knowledge, stories, and experiences that can enrich our lives. Engaging in activities like enjoying ice cream together not only brings joy but also strengthens family bonds. It shows our elders that they are cherished and valued, which is vital for their emotional well-being.Incorporating small joys like ice cream into regular visits can make a significant impact. These moments of connection and enjoyment can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation that many seniors face. Celebrating National Ice Cream Day together is a wonderful way to show love and appreciation while creating new memories.If you are interested in finding ways to help prevent feelings of isolation in seniors or how to provide more emotional support year-round, our team is here to help.

 Accessible Home Health Care has launched an integrated health care platform powered by WizeCare to improve home care clinician access to diagnostic and predictive analytic tools. This solution will enable providers to enhance the experience of patients receiving physical therapy and rehabilitation remotely. Accessible Home Health Care and WizeCare will be positioned to provide a broader set of remote solutions for care providers ensuring a continuum of care, starting with prevention, precision diagnosis, and personalized treatment and leading to better care in the home. The use of home-based technology is increasing to reduce preventable rehospitalizations by coordinating medical support. Utilizing interactive applications provides patients with real-time feedback without the need for direct clinician support. The goal is to empower patients by delivering AR video sessions combined with MoveAI sensorless technology. Additional benefits include fall prevention for the elderly population, early detection of diseases like Alzheimers, and predictive analytics.Now more than ever, patients want to heal at home, says Aarif Dahod, CEO of Accessible Home Health Care. This solution powered by WizeCare helps home clinicians expand the use of remote patient technology, especially in the way physical therapy and rehabilitation is delivered.The addition of WizeCare enhances Accessible Home Health Cares suite of technology solutions, including Accessible Remote Patient Monitoring and CareCaller. We are committed to finding technology that adapts to the needs of clinicians and patients. Our solutions help home health clinicians manage care for complex populations remotely, enabling patients to stay well in the comfort of home, says Mirella Salem, Co-founder and President of Accessible Home Health Care.About WizeCareWizeCare is a team of healthcare specialists, innovative clinicians, business analysts, and technology experts to establish a new paradigm in rehabilitation medicine a fully automated care process from intake to recovery. WizeCare helps clinicians scale their natural abilities with AI, replacing the need for movement labs in physical rehabilitation.With over 75,000 active patients to date, WizeCares state-of-the-art technology offers personalized care plans, delivered and monitored via any mobile devices, analyzed by proprietary algorithms, leading to better outcomes and shorter recovery times. The company has recently added the risk of falls detection capabilities for patients to perform at home to reduce the nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. To learn more, visit WizeCare.com.About Accessible Home Health CareFounded in 2001, Accessible Home Health Care provides compassionate home health care to support families and keep seniors safe in the homes they love. Accessible Home Health Care offers customizable in home health care services that include Alzheimers, dementia, and Parkinsons care to help seniors maintain their independence, home safety, and enhance their quality of life. For more information about Accessible Home Health Care, visit https://www.accessiblehomehealthcare.com. To learn about Accessible Remote Patient Monitoring, visit https://www.accessibleremotepatientmonitoring.com. Covered By:Cision PRWebLongview News-JournalWFMZ 69 News

September 28th is National Good Neighbor Day, which aims to improve community engagement and reverse the growing trend of isolation in neighborhoods. This trend leads to more loneliness and fewer friendships among neighbors. Lack of community support and isolation has hit seniors the hardest, as they are most prone to losing their social connections as they age. Many homebound seniors struggle with routine errands and self-care and need assistance and companionship.Fred Rogers taught many of us how to be good neighbors by being kind and helpful. For example, a friendly wave and greeting can mean so much for someone dealing with loneliness and isolation. We are reminded of this quote attributed to Rogers, which is evidence of his philosophy that we can all be neighbors to one another and make the world a more compassionate place.All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether were giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. Thats one of the things that connects us as neighborsin our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.Being better neighbors can start with simple gestures that only take a few minutes of our day. And heres a little secret: being kind and doing good benefits the giver, too. Of course, we completely understand that you dont want to be intrusive or appear overbearing, especially when many seniors are so used to being self-sufficient and may be reluctant to ask for help.We highlighted a few ways to stay connected with seniors in your neighborhood and be a good neighbor in their time of need.Ways to Lend a Helping Hand for Senior CompanionshipA neighbor is often the first person who may see signs that a senior in their neighborhood needs a little extra help or companionship. They may notice that their once active neighbor is no longer outside gardening or performing their daily routine. Or they arent going out as much and welcoming fewer visitors. Even something seemingly insignificant, such as the mail or newspaper not being picked up on the same day, could indicate something wrong.Studies have shown that strong neighborhood cohesion significantly reduces the risk of early death for older adults. This is partly because neighbors who know each other may feel a greater commitment to help if something feels off. Connecting with seniors in your neighborhood makes you feel empowered to help, even if its only a hunch.Its easy to start small and build trust incrementally. Here are some simple ways to connect with your senior neighbors:Start the Conversation: The smallest gesture can make a big difference for someone lonely or socially isolated. Anytime you see a neighbor outside, it is an opportunity to make a connection, even if its just a wave or a friendly hello. A wave today could turn into a chat about the weather tomorrow and, eventually, more exciting and engaging conversations about family life, sports, hobbies, or other topics that build trust and rapport.Ask for Their Contact Information: Exchange names and contact information so you can reach out in an emergency. As you build trust with your neighbor, you could also ask for the contact information of a family member or friend they use as an emergency contact in case you need to contact them.Offer to Help with Seasonal Chores: We are headed into the colder months of the year, which may mean raking leaves and eventually shoveling snow, depending on where you live. These chores are physically demanding, and hiring a professional crew may be cost-prohibitive for a senior on a fixed income. By helping out with a rake, mower, or snowblower, you can help take this burden off their shoulders and prevent hazards, like ice or slippery leaves, that could lead to falls or injuries.Provide Assistance for Technology Challenges: Technology can help offset some of the isolation challenges seniors face. Connecting worldwide with family and friends or participating in reading groups or social gatherings virtually is now possible. Still, while it may be easier to forge virtual connections, maintaining the physical network connection to facilitate these virtual meetings can be daunting and frustrating, even for someone who uses the technology regularly. Providing IT assistance is another way to be a good neighbor and build trust with a senior who may not be as familiar with the hardware and software used in these tools.Offer to Give Them a Ride: As seniors age, getting around their community may be more difficult, especially if they no longer drive. They need reliable access to transportation for doctor appointments, medicine pickups, grocery shopping, and social visits. If you are available, offer to take them or pick them up to alleviate their transportation concerns. You can help them avoid paying for a ride-share or cab that may be costly or missing an appointment they should keep. A ride here or there may seem like a little, but it can go a long way in helping them stay independent and socially active.Being a Good Neighbor Also Means Respecting BoundariesWe hope these tips have helped you think of ways to be a good neighbor to seniors on your street or block. As we get older, day-to-day activities can become more complicated, which isnt helped by the fact that our social circles also get smaller. It can make us feel more isolated and alone and, unfortunately, more reluctant to ask for help. A good neighbor often takes the first step to connect and offer assistance and companionship.Still, a neighbor shouldnt feel overwhelmed or obligated to always be there for a senior in need. There may be times when a senior does not want help for whatever reason. Its crucial to approach these situations with respect and sensitivity and know you are not entirely responsible for your neighbors well-being.If they say no, be respectful but mindful that you may have to contact their loved ones or provide information if requested. There is a wide range of community programs and support available, and in- home care is an option for families if a senior is struggling with day-to-day activities or needs medical home care. Your observations and check-ins can be significantly helpful if families need more information about their loved ones.Fred Rogers asked all of us to be his neighbors because he understood that practicing a little kindness and compassion can go a long way in making someone feel less lonely. Seniors face an increased risk of isolation and health adversity and may be more reluctant to ask for help. A simple neighborly gesture here and there can help them stay connected and, yes, enjoy another beautiful day in the neighborhood.