Always Best Care Senior Services

Many people only think about end-of-life care as it pertains to getting older. However, a medical emergency could happen at any time that leaves you unconscious or unable to make decisions for yourself. In these situations, it is left up to family members to decide what they think you would want. Rather than making them choose, creating an advance directive can clearly state your wishes, leaving little gray area.What is an advance directive?An advance directive is a legal document that typically contains two main parts: a health care power of attorney and a living will. It may also contain other documents pertaining to specific situations.A health care power of attorney is someone that you appoint to make medical decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated or incapable. They are the person the doctors or healthcare providers will turn to for approval.A living will is a document that outlines your wishes when it comes to life support, resuscitation, ventilators, dialysis, feeding tubes, or comfort care. You may also state whether you want to be a tissue or organ donor.Who needs an advance directive?Anyone age 18 or older can benefit from an advance directive. You never know when a medical emergency will arise, such as a car accident, stroke, or terminal illness. It can be helpful if facing dementia or Alzheimers disease as well. While it is a legal document, you can always update your advance directive as your health changes or your wishes change. What you wanted at 25 may be different at 55 or 85.Why do you need an advance directive?These legal forms ensure that your decisions related to your care are followed. It can take some of the stress off of family during an already difficult time. It can be hard to have these conversations, especially while you are alive and well, but that is the best time to do it while you are thinking clearly. This is especially true if you were to develop a neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimers; you want to make decisions while you are still of sound mind.Putting it in writing leaves no question as to what measures you want taken to prolong your life or provide you with comfort. There is no argument among family about what you might have wanted, because you have stated your wishes. Some topics a living will often covers include:Whether you want to receive care in a hospital or at home.What type of medical treatment you do or do not want.Whether you want to be resuscitated or intubated.Whether you want artificial nutrition (feeding tube) or hydration (IV).Whether you want to donate any of your organs or tissue.What type of care you want to receive at end-of-life to keep you comfortable.Creating an advance directiveYou can work with an attorney to create this document, or your family can fill it out on your own. Some states require it to be notarized, while others simply require signatures from two witnesses who are not your health care power of attorney. Check with your state for specific requirements.Once you have completed and signed or notarized these forms, make sure you keep a copy with your medical records, give one to your doctor and your attorney, and distribute them to your family. If you update these records, dont forget to give new copies out.It is important to have a copy available for your in-home care provider as well so that they know your wishes should anything happen while they are caring for you. They will know exactly who to call and how to respond. They can also work with your health care team during end-of-life care to ensure your needs are met. Learn more about the benefits of in-home care by calling Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation.

What You Need to Know About OsteoarthritisA common condition that affects many seniors is osteoarthritis. Because this type of arthritis develops over time as the cartilage between joints begins to wear down, it is usually associated with aging. While it can be bothersome, there are also some ways to help manage symptoms and allow you to continue doing many activities that you enjoy.What Joints are Affected?Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, but many seniors feel it in their hands, hips, knees, or lower back. These are joints that are often used a lot throughout the day and therefore experience more wear and tear. With repeated motion, the tissue and cartilage that protects the ends of the bones and keeps them from rubbing against one another break down.Symptoms of OsteoarthritisTwo common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the affected joints, but they can come and go. You may feel sore and stiff when you first wake up and try to get out of bed, or after sitting for a while and then transitioning to standing. Once you are up and moving, these symptoms may diminish.You may also notice:A grating feeling in the joint due to the bones rubbing against one another. It may pop or crack.Poor range of motion and not being able to fully extend or move the joint.Swelling and tenderness due to inflammation of the surrounding tissue.The joint may become sore and painful by the end of the day because of a lot of movement during the day. Its important to find a balance between being active and resting. Listen to your body.Managing OsteoarthritisWeight management:One way to help manage symptoms is to maintain a healthy weight. This can ease pressure and stress on your joints which may in turn reduce wear, pain, and inflammation. Focus on eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise.Exercise:It may seem counterintuitive to exercise if you have joint pain, but staying active and promoting increased flexibility can actually help. Not using your joints can cause them to become even stiffer and more immobile. You want to keep strengthening and stretching your muscles and improving your range of motion.Occupational therapy:Occupational therapy can also be beneficial to help you adapt and learn alternative ways of doing things to compensate for issues caused by osteoarthritis. You may find adaptive equipment reduces strain on your joints and makes certain tasks easier.Medication:Your doctor may also prescribe medications to help reduce inflammation and swelling, ease pain, and support joint motion. Sometimes injections are used to add extra cushioning and fluid in the joint. Eventually, joint replacement may be recommended if more conservative measures are not helping and osteoarthritis is significantly impacting your quality of life.Assistive Care:Partnering with anin-home caregiver in Boulder, COcan also help by providing you with the level of support you need to continue aging in place as safely and comfortably as possible. A caregiver can assist with a wide range of daily living activities from wake-up routines and meal preparation to light housekeeping and escorting you on errands.Contact Always Best Care today to schedule a free consultation and find out how an in-home caregiver can benefit you if youre living with osteoarthritis.

Much has been said about the senior generation and the lives that they live. Unfortunately, not all of it is based in fact. Join us as we debunk five of the most common myths about aging!#1 Dementia Is InevitableThis one has been scaring people for some time now, and with seniors living longer and longer lives, its become increasingly persistent.Thankfully, its just not true!Dementia is common enough to warrant concern from the medical community and from family members of seniors; however, it is far from inevitable.Recently, doctors examined the brain of a 115-year-old woman who, when she died, was the worlds oldest person. No evidence of dementia or other disorders was found, and testing throughout her senior years revealed no loss in brain function.If youre concerned about dementia, you can be proactive by taking some simple steps that will help you avoid the disease and its symptoms. Staying mentally and physically well during middle age can help people avoid dementia. Additionally, continuing to challenge the brain in ones later years has been shown to help people stave off Alzheimers disease and other debilitating conditions.#2 Loneliness Is an Inescapable Part of Senior LifeThis may have been truer in the past than it is today, and loneliness has never been completely unavoidable for seniors.The key is to recognize that isolation, which is common in ones senior years, can lead directly to loneliness. Thankfully, our world is filled with options for seniors and others to stay connected with the rest of the population, whether it involves using digital technology for face-to-face chats or joining a local community center. Theres always a way to escape isolation!#3 Theres no Point in Exercising After a Certain AgeThis powerful myth has prevented a large number of people from staying active and extending their lives. The truth is that its never too late to start exercising, even if exercise has never been an important part of ones life.Exercise is a great way for seniors to stay in shape, connect with others and feel youthful, regardless of age.Remember, though, that any physical-fitness routine should be planned and implemented with common sense and safety in mind. Seniors should start small by taking short walks and performing simple body-weight exercises. Doctors and trainers can help seniors devise workout plans that maximize benefits while minimizing the risk of injury.#4 Poverty Is InevitableAs seniors live longer than ever before, some are finding that they simply didnt save enough during their working years to sustain their lives during old age. The cost of living keeps getting more and more expensive, as well. However, that doesnt mean that poverty is a fact of life for seniors.The fact is that less than 10% of those aged 65 or older fall below the poverty line in the United States. That number, while higher than it ought to be, only represents a fraction of the total senior population.Seniors are typically better at saving money than those in younger generations, and people in general are becoming more fiscally aware, which will lead to an aging populace that is more financially secure than any other such generation in history.#5 Seniors Stop Learning After a Certain AgeThe stereotype of the aging individual who is set in his or her ways is a strong one, but its just not reflective of reality.Todays seniors are more active and curious than ever before, and our world provides them with countless opportunities to explore their intellect and become introduced to new ideas. Research that shows the importance of keeping the brain active and engaged has led to a renewed commitment to learning, regardless of ones age, and many seniors are proving that its never too late to learn a new skill or become an expert in a previously foreign subject.Senior Living Is What You Make of ItWhile these myths are not the truth, they contain enough truth to remain persistent. The real truth, though, is that anyones life experience whether they are elderly or a teenager depends on the approach they take and the support that they have around them. Thankfully, todays seniors live in a world of limitless possibilities. And with the help of Always Best Care and our amazing team of caregivers, its possible to finally put these myths to bed for good!To learn more about what Always Best Care can do to help you and your family, contact Always Best Care today! Call 1-855-470-2273, or visit AlwaysBestCare.com.

After spending your life working and taking care of others, its important to take care of yourself as well. You want to be able to continue doing the things you enjoy for as long as possible and maintain good health. There are a variety of steps you can take and changes you can make to support healthy aging and improve your quality of life.Stay ActivePhysical activity is essential at any age. It supports weight management, strengthens bones and muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances balance and mobility. You dont necessarily have to hit the gym to stay fit, though using free weights and equipment can be beneficial. Sign up for a senior fitness class, walk or bike around the neighborhood, practice yoga or Pilates, go swimming, or enjoy a rousing game of tennis. Try new activities and find things you enjoy to keep you active.Eat a Healthy DietAs you age, your dietary needs change. You may need to eat more fiber or cut back on your sodium. Create a well-balanced diet that incorporates lean proteins, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Add a punch of flavor by experimenting with different herbs and spices rather than using salt or butter.Exercise Your BrainKeeping your brain sharp is part of healthy aging too. Spend time reading each day or doing puzzles like crosswords or Sudoku. Challenge yourself to learn new skills or hobbies. Even playing video games (and board games!) with the grandkids can work different parts of your brain and make you think and problem solve.Get Quality SleepRecovering or catching up from lost sleep can be difficult, so make it a point to try to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Keeping your room cool and dark can create a more ideal environment for rest. Pay attention to medications you take and how they may affect your ability to fall or stay asleep. Working out during the day can help you burn off excess energy and feel more tired at night.Find a Sense of PurposeGive yourself something to look forward to, whether that is volunteering in the community, attending a weekly book club, or learning to play the piano. This can help boost your mood and keep you more engaged, which is great for your mental health.Socialize with OthersThis is especially important if you live alone. Unfortunately, isolation and loneliness can contribute to depression. Make plans to have lunch with friends once a week or meet to go walking in the park. Sign up for activities or volunteer opportunities where you can connect with others while doing things you enjoy. Stay in touch with family and friends in person, over the phone, or through video calling. Surrounding yourself with people who make you happy can be very energizing.Manage Your HealthFinally, ensure youre keeping up with doctor appointments and screenings so you can stay on top of your health. Speak up if you have concerns and seek out support groups if youre dealing with chronic or life-altering conditions.Partnering with an in-home care provider can help you navigate aging with more confidence. A caregiver can support you with a wide range of activities of daily living, provide welcome companionship, and empower you to continue living your best life. Contact Always Best Care at (720) 494-8407 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how in-home care can benefit you as you age.

Many people only think about end-of-life care as it pertains to getting older. However, a medical emergency could happen at any time that leaves you unconscious or unable to make decisions for yourself. In these situations, it is left up to family members to decide what they think you would want. Rather than making them choose, creating an advance directive can clearly state your wishes, leaving little gray area.What is an advance directive?An advance directive is a legal document that typically contains two main parts: a health care power of attorney and a living will. It may also contain other documents pertaining to specific situations.A health care power of attorney is someone that you appoint to make medical decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated or incapable. They are the person the doctors or healthcare providers will turn to for approval.A living will is a document that outlines your wishes when it comes to life support, resuscitation, ventilators, dialysis, feeding tubes, or comfort care. You may also state whether you want to be a tissue or organ donor.Who needs an advance directive?Anyone age 18 or older can benefit from an advance directive. You never know when a medical emergency will arise, such as a car accident, stroke, or terminal illness. It can be helpful if facing dementia or Alzheimers disease as well. While it is a legal document, you can always update your advance directive as your health changes or your wishes change. What you wanted at 25 may be different at 55 or 85.Why do you need an advance directive?These legal forms ensure that your decisions related to your care are followed. It can take some of the stress off of family during an already difficult time. It can be hard to have these conversations, especially while you are alive and well, but that is the best time to do it while you are thinking clearly. This is especially true if you were to develop a neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimers; you want to make decisions while you are still of sound mind.Putting it in writing leaves no question as to what measures you want taken to prolong your life or provide you with comfort. There is no argument among family about what you might have wanted, because you have stated your wishes. Some topics a living will often covers include:Whether you want to receive care in a hospital or at home.What type of medical treatment you do or do not want.Whether you want to be resuscitated or intubated.Whether you want artificial nutrition (feeding tube) or hydration (IV).Whether you want to donate any of your organs or tissue.What type of care you want to receive at end-of-life to keep you comfortable.Creating an advance directiveYou can work with an attorney to create this document, or your family can fill it out on your own. Some states require it to be notarized, while others simply require signatures from two witnesses who are not your health care power of attorney. Check with your state for specific requirements.Once you have completed and signed or notarized these forms, make sure you keep a copy with your medical records, give one to your doctor and your attorney, and distribute them to your family. If you update these records, dont forget to give new copies out.It is important to have a copy available for your in-home care provider as well so that they know your wishes should anything happen while they are caring for you. They will know exactly who to call and how to respond. They can also work with your health care team during end-of-life care to ensure your needs are met. Learn more about the benefits of in-home care by calling Always Best Care today at (855) 470-2273 to schedule a free consultation.

What You Need to Know About OsteoarthritisA common condition that affects many seniors is osteoarthritis. Because this type of arthritis develops over time as the cartilage between joints begins to wear down, it is usually associated with aging. While it can be bothersome, there are also some ways to help manage symptoms and allow you to continue doing many activities that you enjoy.What Joints are Affected?Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, but many seniors feel it in their hands, hips, knees, or lower back. These are joints that are often used a lot throughout the day and therefore experience more wear and tear. With repeated motion, the tissue and cartilage that protects the ends of the bones and keeps them from rubbing against one another break down.Symptoms of OsteoarthritisTwo common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the affected joints, but they can come and go. You may feel sore and stiff when you first wake up and try to get out of bed, or after sitting for a while and then transitioning to standing. Once you are up and moving, these symptoms may diminish.You may also notice:A grating feeling in the joint due to the bones rubbing against one another. It may pop or crack.Poor range of motion and not being able to fully extend or move the joint.Swelling and tenderness due to inflammation of the surrounding tissue.The joint may become sore and painful by the end of the day because of a lot of movement during the day. Its important to find a balance between being active and resting. Listen to your body.Managing OsteoarthritisWeight management:One way to help manage symptoms is to maintain a healthy weight. This can ease pressure and stress on your joints which may in turn reduce wear, pain, and inflammation. Focus on eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise.Exercise:It may seem counterintuitive to exercise if you have joint pain, but staying active and promoting increased flexibility can actually help. Not using your joints can cause them to become even stiffer and more immobile. You want to keep strengthening and stretching your muscles and improving your range of motion.Occupational therapy:Occupational therapy can also be beneficial to help you adapt and learn alternative ways of doing things to compensate for issues caused by osteoarthritis. You may find adaptive equipment reduces strain on your joints and makes certain tasks easier.Medication:Your doctor may also prescribe medications to help reduce inflammation and swelling, ease pain, and support joint motion. Sometimes injections are used to add extra cushioning and fluid in the joint. Eventually, joint replacement may be recommended if more conservative measures are not helping and osteoarthritis is significantly impacting your quality of life.Assistive Care:Partnering with anin-home caregiver in Boulder, COcan also help by providing you with the level of support you need to continue aging in place as safely and comfortably as possible. A caregiver can assist with a wide range of daily living activities from wake-up routines and meal preparation to light housekeeping and escorting you on errands.Contact Always Best Care today to schedule a free consultation and find out how an in-home caregiver can benefit you if youre living with osteoarthritis.