CarePatrol

You may be a spouse, or a sibling. A grandchild, a member of the same church, or even a neighbor. You are a caregiver. To the person you are providing care, you are a lifeline. You are ensuring they get the emotional and physical support they need, but what about you? Is the stress of caregiving leaving you vulnerable to a wide range of physical and emotional problems? The answer is a resounding YES. As a caregiver, you probably have been told that by doing so you put your own health at risk, and this can certainly affect your ability to provide care. Most importantly, this can ultimately impact both you and the person you're caring for. But have you really considered the consequences? You can't help anyone if you yourself become ill or injured. So, what strategies can you employ to help prevent or at least minimize the chances of that happening? Here are a few helpful tips to consider. First and foremost - please don't be afraid to ask for help, and by all means say yes when offered help or a break. Take care of yourself - don't cancel or fail to make important appointments in lieu of caring for another person. Get plenty of sleep, eat well, exercise, continue to pursue passions or better yet find a new one. Reach out - informal support in the form of sharing with family and friends, or formal support such as counseling with you minister, pastor or priest, or caregiver support groups. Examples of local organizations who sponsor them include the Alzheimer's Association and the Pikes Peak Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging. Utilize professional services - there are many Adult Day Services in the community, professionally licensed In Home caregivers who can come to the home to provide assistance with caregiving. And if caregiving at home is no longer a safe and viable option, you may need to consider options outside of the home, such as Independent or Assisted Living. Caregivers can feel extreme guilt when asking for help, or even when taking care of themselves, but both promote good caregiving. You at your best promotes caregiving at its best! Editor's Note: This article was written by Laura Cooley, CSA. Laura is the local owner and Certified Senior Adviser for Care Patrol and may be reached at 719-373-0040 or by email at laurac@carepatrol.com

Now that the summer heat is behind us and the weather is getting colder, flu symptoms will become increasingly common. For seniors, the common cold can lead to complications like bronchitis and pneumonia. For seniors struggling with more chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma, a flu infection can worsen things.Your loved ones health should be your priority as the winter draws closer, and taking the right steps to prepare your seniors for the season is essential. Get a flu vaccineSeeing your loved ones succumb to mild illnesses like the flu can be tough to watch. Unfortunately, the older they get, the weaker their immune system is, especially when they have underlying health issues.So, dont underrate the capacity of something seemingly as simple as flu to lead to severe complications. Ensure you get a flu vaccine for your loved ones early to protect them from the worst of the virus.  Be ready for snow stormsSnow storms can leave seniors isolated or restricted inside their homes, so its essential to prepare for the worst eventualities, such as occasional blackouts. Stock up the kitchen and ensure that water and medication are readily available. You can also get supplies such as a warm blanket, gloves, spare batteries, and a flashlight to keep your loved ones comfortable inside.  Practice proper hand washingYou should impress upon your loved ones the importance of proper hand washing, as it is a highly effective way to prevent cold and flu. It begins with applying antibacterial soap and warm water to the hands, working the lather for about 20 seconds before rinsing and drying the hands. Have them use disposable towels to wipe their hands and use them to turn off the running water to avoid recontamination from touching the faucet. Eat healthyAlthough adequate nutrition can be challenging to manage during the cold months, you should make an effort to ensure that your loved ones get quality, nutritious meals at all times.Stocking up on frozen portions of vegetable-rich meals, soups, and fruits will strengthen their immune system and make them more resilient to the flu.  Get activeDepending on the capacity of your loved ones, you should impress upon them the importance of physical exercise as an efficient way of helping the body fight infection. Ensure they regularly carry out low-impact exercises for a few minutes daily to avoid being couch potatoes, making the immune system too weak to resist the flu.  Clean household surfacesCold and flu viruses can survive on surfaces outside of the human body and particularly live longer on surfaces like wood, plastic, and metal.So, keep your loved ones from contracting the flu by cleaning household surfaces with the appropriate disinfectants containing hydrogen peroxide, citric acid, pine oil, alcohol, or bleach. Also, check that your loved ones are not allergic to any substances in the cleaning agents you use.

Caregivers face many emotionally trying times. One of the most frequent topics that families share with me is the feeling that they can no longer be the primary caregiver, and that they must consider a care facility. It can be an agonizing decision and they oftentimes are experiencing a sense of guilt or failure. However, before having these conversations with your loved one, it is important to keep the following in mind.As the primary caregiver, it is essential that you tend to your health so you can continue to be there for your loved one. Dont wait for a crisis to happen, if you are thinking about this now, chances are youve been thinking about it a long time and it may be time to act. By getting help from others, you are not abandoning your loved one, instead you are expanding the circle of caregivers to support you both.It can be very helpful to enlist the help of an eldercare professional, they can assist you in starting the conversion, facilitating that conversation, and we would be honored to help ease some of that burden.Editors Note: This article was written by Laura Cooley, CSA. Laura is the local owner and Certified Senior Advisor for Care Patrol and may be reached at 719-257-3001 or by email at laurac@carepatrol.com.

If you have an older loved one in your life, it is important to know how to care for them. That includes making sure they are staying safe since they are more likely to fall and sustain severe injury than younger people.A fall could mean severe pain, soft tissue injuries, broken bones, spinal injuries, or even a traumatic brain injury. With that in mind, your loved one could need immediate medical attention. While there are plenty of cases where you can see that they need to seek medical treatment, there may be times when you are not sure about the severity of your loved ones injuries. Even minor injuries can become more severe if they are not treated, so a good assessment of their fall-related injuries matters. Research shows that approximately 20% of falls in the elderly lead to serious injuries. (source: CDC)8 Warning Signs to Look for After an Elderly FallHere are eight of the biggest symptoms to look for after a fall, so you can decide if your loved one should seek medical attention immediately or if they can rest and feel better without medical intervention.1. Lacerations & BruisingLacerations, cuts, and bruises are some of the most common slips and fall accident injuries, especially in older adults. These injuries can also occur from walking into furniture or the corner of a countertop, preparing food, or in countless other ways.Most small lacerations and small bruises can be easily treated at home unless your elderly loved one has a bleeding disorder or other condition that could mean cuts and bruises require them to seek medical attention promptly.Size and Placement MatterAfter a slip-and-fall accident, the size and placement of the cuts or bruises matter. If your loved one has a large abdominal bruise and stomach pain, for example, that can be much more of a concern than smaller bruises on their arm.Additionally, lacerations in areas that are difficult to heal can be problematic, especially if the cut is deep or does not want to stop bleeding. It is better to err on the side of caution by reaching out to a medical professional or going to the emergency room, just to make sure your loved one is safe.2. Behavioral ChangesBehavioral changes after a fall are a definite cause for concern. These changes can be caused by traumatic brain injuries and other types of head injuries or even internal bleeding. Medical assistance is a good idea anytime an older adult exhibits a notable change in behavior, especially after a fall.It is also possible that serious internal bleeding, a stroke, or other problems are causing the changes and may have also caused the fall itself. Medical attention is the key to discovering the severity of the problem.3. Neck & Head InjuryHead injury symptoms to look for after a fall include headaches, dizziness, and difficulty moving the neck, with or without neck pain. Light may be too bright, as well, and the persons pupils could be uneven or not reacting properly.If you notice symptoms like this with a fall injury, it is important to rule out a severe head injury. You will want to seek medical treatment immediately and get a professional medical evaluation to rule out other medical issues.4. Swelling, Tingling, & Restricted MobilityWhen elderly loved one has a slip and fall accident, they can easily end up with broken bones, a head injury, spinal cord injuries, or other serious injury symptoms. If you see that a joint or other area is swollen, they have tingling in their extremities, or they are dealing with restricted mobility, they need medical care.Avoiding Care Can Lead to Chronic PainWithout medical treatment, there can be ongoing pain along with a broken bone or other injury that does not heal right. Even if the senior is not interested in seeking medical attention or does not want to bother anyone, it is important to have the affected limb or other area examined and treated.5. Irregular HeartbeatHaving an irregular heartbeat can be the cause of a fall, but it can also happen after a fall, as well. A medical evaluation will help determine the cause of the irregularity, so it can be treated and reduce future risks.Sometimes, an irregular heartbeat can cause dizziness or even a temporary loss of consciousness. In those instances, a fall could be quite common. If your elderly loved one has fall injuries that are not easily explained, or they start falling often, a medical professional can help discover what caused the initial accident and work to prevent future fall accidents.6. Tenderness & PainAcute injuries such as hip fractures, back injuries, neck injuries, wrist injuries, and soft tissue damage can cause pain and tenderness in the area. Many fall-related injuries create discomfort and can even lead to nerve damage or serious pain that lingers for a long time.Anytime an elderly person falls and has clear injury symptoms such as sharp pain or tenderness, it is wise to take them to the emergency room, urgent care, or their main healthcare professional.Depending on how they fell and whether they struck anything on their way down, they could even have internal injuries that need treatment right away.7. Vomiting & IncontinenceStomach pain (with or without vomiting), incontinence, or both can also be signs of internal injuries, a brain injury, or other concerns. If your older loved one is experiencing either one or both issues after a slip and fall, they could have head injuries or significant health problems.You need to seek medical attention promptly for these kinds of symptoms since they could indicate severe injuries. Internal bleeding, for example, could cause sharp pain and vomiting. Additionally, a stroke or related health problem could cause a fall and vomiting or incontinence issues.8. Vision ProblemsVision problems are another symptom to look for after a fall. They can be signs of a stroke or head injury and should be taken seriously. Diminished vision is common in elderly people, but a traumatic brain injury from a fall can quickly transform low vision into almost no vision.Additionally, you want to seek medical treatment for any serious injury that causes vision problems. There are multiple ways that vision could be affected, and traumatic brain injuries are not the only serious problems that affect the eyes. If your loved one cannot see properly after a fall, get them immediate medical attention.Causes of Falls in the ElderlyThere are many types of fall injuries in the elderly. Slip and fall accidents are more common and frequently cause more serious injuries in older people.While it is not possible to prevent every fall, knowing the most common causes can help you look for ways to make your elderly loved ones living environment safer.Anything can cause someone to fall, but the most common causes of falls in older adults include:Age-related loss of muscle massBalance problemsLoss of vision, hearing, and reflexesMedical conditionsSome kinds of medicationsPain or other issues with the feetCognitive impairmentRushing, such as when experiencing incontinenceSafety hazards like clutter or uneven surfacesAddressing any medical conditions that could lead to a slip and fall accident is an important way to reduce the chances of head injuries, broken bones, and other problems for your aging loved one.A fall injury can lead to chronic pain, fear of living alone, or even a brain injury, so it is vital to make changes that keep the risk of falling as low as possible.How to Prevent FallsAlong with knowing the symptoms to look for after a fall and the leading causes of falls in the elderly, it is important to learn how to prevent falls from occurring and causing severe pain and other serious injuries.Prevention can make a significant difference in your elderly loved ones quality of life. Here are a few ways to reduce their chances of taking a fall.Get Moving to Lower Fall RiskOne great way to prevent falls is to stay active. If your aging family member or loved one is very sedentary, encouraging them to get moving can help. They may not want to exercise, but there are all kinds of enjoyable activities that do not require running or going to the gym.While it is true that staying physically active can reduce falls accidents, anyone who has not exercised in a while or has health concerns should still have a medical evaluation before they get started. That can help determine what level of exercise is safe.Building muscle strength is crucial for maintaining overall health and mobility, especially for older adults, and can be effectively achieved through activities like walking, swimming, strength training, and balance exercises, as well as climbing stairs, using resistance bands, practicing yoga, and engaging in sports such as golf or bowling, provided there are no significant balance issues. (source: STEADI resources)Test Eyes and HearingVision and hearing loss can both lead to a higher chance of falling, and the broken bones, medical expenses, and other issues that come along with it. Even if your loved one does not notice symptoms, seeking medical attention to determine their current level of health can provide valuable information to work with.Another reason to seek medical attention for eyes, hearing, and cognitive abilities is that finding a small problem can sometimes lead to diagnosing a larger issue. If that is the case, it could avoid serious injuries in the future and reduce the chances of a falling accident that could lead to neck pain, head injuries, and other problems.Take More Time to Complete ActivitiesThere is no reason to try to power walk through the days activities. It is okay to move slower and be more methodical when walking or doing other tasks. Especially if your loved one already has chronic pain or any mobility issues, encouraging them to take their time can help reduce fall injuries.They may also need an assistive device like a cane or walker, especially when the weather is bad, or they are in an unfamiliar place. If you notice symptoms that indicate your loved one may be struggling with balance or movement, getting them the right support from a medical professional can make a significant difference.Consider Alcohol and Medications CarefullyDrinking alcohol can cause slip and fall injuries, soft tissue damage, back injuries, and other harm due to unsteadiness. It is often best for your loved one to avoid alcohol, especially if it interacts with any of their medications. Also, slip and fall injuries can also come from some negative medication interactions.If you are concerned about slip and fall accidents because your loved one is taking medications that can impair them, it is important to help them work with their doctor to address those concerns. The goal is to make it easier for your loved one to avoid a fall accident so they do not need medical treatment for an injury.Services That Can HelpSeeking medical attention after a fall accident is extremely important, whether your elderly loved one has a broken bone, head injuries, stomach pain, referred pain, or other serious injuries. You may also find that a fall accident means it is time to start thinking about additional care for your family member.In-home care services, for example, may be able to help prevent a more serious injury in the future. Because a slip and fall accident can lead to so many different issues, and cause your loved one to seek medical attention, the goal is to keep them from falling.Having in-home services to watch over your aging family member can mean fewer slip-and-fall injuries and a lower chance of your loved one needing physical therapy or other treatments to get back to moving again. Treating their injuries carefully will help them heal faster, but the best choice is to avoid the injuries entirely.Even if they only suffered minor injuries from a fall, you do not want your loved one to keep falling in the future. Additional slip and fall accidents can mean more serious injuries, and not all broken bones heal well. That could leave your loved one with chronic pain and other discomfort that could reduce their quality of life.Senior Care & Independent Living OptionsSenior care is essential to helping older adults continue to live their best lives, and CarePatrol helps families find the right senior care and independent living options they need. Our local experts can help you navigate the transition for your family members, so they can settle into their new routine and feel safe and secure again. We will help you find the right care option, whether it be in-home care, a nursing home, or anything in between. Contact your CarePatrol Local Senior Care Advisor to get started. 

The National Alliance for Caregiving and the AARP estimate that more than 53 million Americans are family caregivers: People of all ages who provide care, support, and assistance for a loved one. This number is almost certainly a low estimate and is sure to increase as more Baby Boomers age and require help to achieve their health, wellness, and everyday living goals. Family caregivers do an incredible amount of work to ensure that aging loved ones are safe, secure, and healthy. But what does taking care of an aging loved one in your home really look like? If youre new to the role of family caregiver, its important to understand the realities of caregiving and know when to consider senior living for the benefit of yourself and your loved one.Daily Needs for Elder Care: Top 5 Things to ConsiderWhile not all older adults will need all of these forms of assistance, its important to plan ahead for changing needs. Dont forget to consider your own health and well-being in this equation, toobe honest and compassionate toward yourself as you determine whether you can be an effective caregiver or if you need to consider senior living options.Transportation & MobilityOlder adults face mobility challenges for numerous reasons. As people age, their muscle strength can decrease by as much as 50%. Combined with the natural deterioration of neurons that help with motor functions, this loss of muscle can make it hard for older people to drive, walk, use stairs, and more.Remaining as mobile as possible is critical for peoples overall health, well-being, and sense of confidence, which means caregivers may need to help elders:Get in and out of beds, chairs, cars, etc.Use walking aids or get around in a wheelchairSafely go up or down stairsDrive to doctors appointments & social engagementsMake home modifications for safety, such as widening doors, installing grab bars and handrails, removing trip hazards, decluttering, improving lighting, and maintaining flooring Meal Preparation & Meal PlanningDid you know that our nutrition needs change as we get older? A healthy diet is important at all stages of life, but for people over 55, getting the right balance of calories, nutrients, and vitamins can help prevent and manage chronic conditions, support muscle health and mobility, and much more.Of course, older adults face unique barriers to getting the nutrients they need. Diminished taste and smell senses can make food seem less appealing, and conditions like dementia can make chewing and swallowing difficult. Caregivers are a crucial part of supporting nutritional needs and may need to:Make weekly meal plansCook meals Go grocery shoppingFind creative ways to encourage eating and drinking enough waterSupervise meals to ensure safe and comfortable eating routinesConsult with a loved ones physicians to understand their nutritional needs and avoid foods that have negative interactions with medications, health conditions, etc.Housekeeping & Home MaintenanceHousekeeping is never easy, but it can be particularly challenging for older adults. If youre a family caregiver, you may be called upon to help your loved one with anything from laundry to lawn care.When considering your ability to provide care for a loved one, make sure to factor in household help, such as:LaundryKitchen cleaning (washing dishes, cleaning countertops, taking out the trash)Bathroom cleaning (cleaning tubs, showers, sinks, and toilets)Vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, window cleaning, etc.Gardening/landscaping General home maintenance (replacing air filters, appliance upkeep, etc.)Personal Care: Bathing, Dressing, Continence Care, & MorePersonal hygiene is one of the most emotionally charged caregiving tasks. Sometimes, older adults feel embarrassed or ashamed when a family member has to help them with things like bathing, dressing, grooming, and especially toileting. Without the right approach, these interactions can be particularly taxing to both parties. Maintaining a persons dignity while helping them with personal care tasks should be a top priority. Personal care tasks may include helping a person:BatheShaveDress and undressWash and brush their hairUse and clean continence aidsMaintain a healthy skincare routineKeep up with oral hygiene (brushing teeth, etc.)Health & Well-Being: Medication Management & MoreIf your loved one requires skilled nursing care, its always best to have a professionally trained caregiver administer it. Still, family caregivers may need to help their loved ones organize their medications and communicate with their doctor to ensure that everyone fully understands their care plan. If you are going to be a family caregiver, you may be an integral part of helping your loved one navigate the healthcare landscape, from attending doctors visits with them to encouraging healthy behaviors at home like exercise. This extends to their mental health as well, making sure that they have everything they need to stay connected to a social network, participate in activities that bring them joy, and remain engaged with lifes meaningful moments.Understanding the Realities of CaregivingThe choice of whether to take care of an aging loved one at home or consider senior living is difficult. If you are newly taking on the role of family caregiver, or if youve been handling this responsibility for a while and are feeling burned out, being realistic about your own abilitiesand your loved ones care needsis critical.Depending on the level of assistance they need, caring for an older person can be a full-time job. And if youre stretched too thinemotionally, physically, or financiallyyou wont be able to provide the best possible care. While it may be hard to think about at first, in many cases, senior living communities are the best option for everyone involved.Take some time to think about your situation as critically as you can. Does your loved one have needs that you are unqualified or struggle to fulfill? Are you confident that their environment is safe, supportive, and connected? Is your loved one not just surviving but thriving?How much money do you spend taking care of your loved one at home? Include expenses like additional utility bills, extra groceries, medical needs, accessibility devices, transportation-related costs, home modifications, and more.Is caregiving having a negative impact on your other responsibilities (work, child-rearing, etc.)?Get Personalized Help Exploring Your Senior Living OptionsIf you have been providing unpaid care for a loved one or are preparing to take on this role, you may benefit from additional support. Senior living options can provide that support, and CarePatrol is here to help you find the perfect community. We are a network of local senior care experts offering hands-on, concierge-style assistance to help you find the perfect assisted living, independent living, or memory care community for your loved ones needs and your familys budget. Best of all, we offer our services at no cost to you! 

As the people in our lives get older, its natural for their mental and physical abilities to slip a little from time to time. Maybe they cant quite recall that one neighbors name, or they decide to finally hire someone else to mow the lawn. But when does normal aging cross the line into the early signs of dementia? And when is it time to consider assisted living?In honor of Alzheimers Awareness Month this November, were taking a moment to talk about dementia: what it is, what to expect, and how a senior care advisor can help your family find the best support. A dementia diagnosis doesnt mean the end of good days for your loved onewith the right senior living community, you can still enjoy plenty of meaningful moments and happy times together. What Is the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimers?Alzheimers disease is a specific form of dementia, accounting for 6070% of all cases. One of the major physical characteristics of this disease is the presence of plaques and tangles in the brain. Plaques are clusters of protein buildups between neurons, and tangles are knots of nerve cells. Together, these issues lead to tissue loss and signs of cognitive deterioration.Dementia is a more general term for various symptoms of decline in a persons cognitive function.  There are many other causes and types of dementia, including:Lewy body dementia: associated with deposits of a protein (Lewy bodies) that form in the brain and affect brain chemistryVascular dementia: changes in the brain resulting from blocked or reduced blood flow Frontotemporal dementia: characterized by nerve cell loss in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brainChronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE): common in athletes, and associated with repeated head injuries throughout a persons lifetimeWhat Are the Signs of Alzheimers Disease?Memory ProblemsOften, dementia begins with what seems like ordinary forgetfulness. But when forgetfulness interferes with daily life, its no longer a normal part of aging. A forgotten name here or a missed appointment there may not be cause for alarm. But if you notice a consistent pattern of memory loss, especially if it involves skipped medications or missed bills, it may be time to arrange for a professional assessment.Trouble with Reasoning & JudgmentThe first signs of change may become evident when it comes time to take on a complex task. Whether that task is organizing a party or learning a new skill at work, difficulty thinking or frequent confusion can be a red flag. Judgment problems can also affect a persons driving capabilities. Frequent accidents, dings and scratches on the car, or getting lost on familiar routes are common early signs of developing dementia.Changes in Hygiene or Other Personal TasksIf your loved one has always been a little lax with their hygiene and housekeeping, that likely isnt going to change in their later years. But a noticeable decline in their showering habits, personal grooming, or household chores could be a symptom of dementia. They may be unable to perform the activities of daily living that they once could, in which case senior care could be the best option for their safety and well-being.Orientation & Mobility IssuesIts normal for older adults to have a little more trouble getting around the house than they used to. But dizziness and balance problems are more serious issues. If your loved one has trouble getting up, sitting down, or walking around, they may need extra assistance. Watch, too, for any unexplained bruises that could be signs of unreported trips or falls.Mood, Behavior, and Communication ChangesIts common for people with dementia to have difficulty communicating what they mean to the people around them. Watch for consistent trouble finding the right words, uncertainty or confusion when performing familiar tasks, and changes in their personality, like a loss of interest in things they once enjoyed.What is the Best Care for a Person with Dementia?Assisted living communities with dedicated dementia care or memory care facilities have a number of benefits. Skilled caregivers at these homes understand exactly how to manage the symptoms of dementia, and they can keep a close watch on the diseases progression over time. From managing medications to helping them with everyday grooming and mobility tasks, the nurses at assisted living communities are there to provide quality care 24/7. And when you arent the sole caregiver for a person with Alzheimers disease or another form of dementia, you have more emotional bandwidth to support them in the other ways that matter most: being a loving presence in their life.Assisted living residents also benefit from specialized programs designed to maximize their remaining abilities and stimulate their minds with meaningful activities. Remember that social isolation is a major concern for older adults. Quality memory care communities ensure that your loved one feels connected through common areas, group activities, and consistent caregiver relationships.Find a Senior Living Community for Dementia CareReceiving a dementia diagnosis for a loved one is never easy. But you dont have to go through the process alone. At CarePatrol, our senior care advisors are here to help you find the perfect senior living solution for your family. Theyll be with you every step of the way: assessing the necessary level of care, touring vetted communities with you, coordinating move-in day, and checking in with you periodically after the transition. If youre not sure whether its time to consider assisted living, take our short assessment today!CarePatrol: Helping You Find the Best Community for Your Senior Loved One Finding memory and dementia care can be a stressful process for seniors and their families. But CarePatrols senior care advisors have vetted thousands of assisted living facilities and nursing homes nationwide, and were ready to help you find the perfect fit. Best of all, our services are offered at no charge to you. 

Over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimers disease, and 3 million new cases are diagnosed each year. More than 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimers disease or another dementia.  These staggering statistics mean that you likely know someone or have a loved one who has a form of dementia. In the United States, 11 million people are acting as unpaid caregivers for a loved one with Alzheimers. November is National Alzheimers Disease Awareness Month, an opportunity to learn more about this disease that is deadlier than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.  Alzheimers disease is the most common type of dementia. This progressive disease starts with mild memory loss and involves the part of the brain that controls language, thought, and memory, impacting a persons ability to carry out daily activities. Research has not determined the exact cause of Alzheimers, but it is believed that several factors can play a part in the disease, including:Genetics:  Family history may be linked to developing Alzheimers, though it is not guaranteed that if someone in your family is affected, you will be, too.  Healthy lifestyle choices like exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, and eating a healthy diet may help. Age:  This is the best-known risk factor for the disease. Environmental factors:  Science is studying the potential connection. Changes in the brain:  These can happen years before symptoms appear. Since memory loss is not a normal part of aging, knowing the warning signs is important, especially if you have concerns about a loved one. Someone may experience the following symptoms early in the process: Challenges executing familiar tasks at home, work, or during leisure timeDisruptions in daily life due to memory loss, like repeating questions or becoming lost in a familiar placeDifficulties paying bills or handling moneyMood, personality, or behavioral changes Losing items and not being able to figure out how to retrace steps to look for themPoor judgment Memory Care Communities can benefit someone living with dementia as well as give their families peace of mind.  Often located within larger assisted living facilities or in smaller residential settings, these specialized facilities can provide dementia care for residents with middle to late stage memory loss. The environment is secure, and full of safety features designed to enhance memory function and decrease potential confusion for anyone who lives there. Memory Care focuses on giving aging adults a safe environment to stay engaged and active in a structured environment.  Features can include art classes, physical therapy, fitness classes, music experiences, and communal dining to help residents stay socially connected. CarePatrol has been helping families find the right senior care options for their loved ones for over 30 years.  As specialists in the field of aging, CarePatrol Local Senior Care Advisors are able to match older adults to the right communities so they can live their best life, including Assisted Living, Independent Living, Nursing Homes, and Memory Care Communities. Reach out to see how we can help your family today. 

Most people dont think about technology when they think of senior citizens. But todays 65+ population is much more tech savvy than people realize. Not only are older adults streaming shows, using tablets, and taking advantage of virtual assistantstheyre using senior care technology to meet their health & wellness goals. Healthcare tech is also changing the way that assisted living communities and nursing homes provide for their residents in a lot of positive and exciting ways.So, what can we expect from the senior care of the future? Technology will allow for greater transparency, keeping family members informed and connected even from a distance. It will remove some of the rote tasks from caregivers so they can put their energies into better care. And it will give us new avenues to improve health and wellness across the board. Lets take a look at some of the possibilitiesand realities already taking place.Smart Home TechnologySmart home technology has mostly been marketed toward the worlds young upstarts. But smart devices have a real place in senior living communities for those who are forward-thinking enough to adopt them.For example, smart LED light systems that change color and intensity to mimic natural light patterns can encourage healthier sleep patterns and break cycles of fragmented sleep. Smart motion sensors can help detect falls and unusual activity, and digital pill dispensers can provide carefully dosed medications, track when seniors take them, and even provide audible reminders.These features wont take the place of the personal touch of caregiversin fact, theyll enhance it. By easing the burden of doing tasks that can be automated, caregivers can focus on providing more loving, attentive care.Artificial IntelligenceWhile these things may sound great, some may wonder if theyll be more of an obstacle than a help. For instance, what stops a motion sensor from going off when your loved one is doing normal, everyday activities? Thats where artificial intelligence comes in. The AI aspect can create a baseline of normal daily activity patterns, vital signs, and more. Then, if anything significantly deviates from that baseline, caregivers can intervene proactively. This tech has helped assisted living facilities detect early signs of wandering behavior, changes in activity levels, and prolonged isolation.AI also has the potential to provide senior care providers with crucial data to improve their safety measures. For example, if a fall happens, staff could analyze the situation and make interventions to prevent future accidents and injuries going forward.Wearable Digital Health ToolsWearable health tools no longer have to be the bulky, red-button necklaces of old. Todays smartwatches, activity trackers, and medical alert devices for seniors have come a long way, are less intrusive, and look pretty stylish, too. From well-known fitness trackers like FitBit to medical alert watches designed with seniors in mind, these tools are powerful, nonintrusive assistants. These devices can track sleep quality, motivate health and wellness habits, and make it easy to share your loved ones vital information with healthcare providers. Other forms of tech include smart skin patches that help manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, making healthy lifestyle interventions more accessible and easy-to-remember than ever before.Virtual Reality & Senior Mental HealthIt may seem like science-fiction, but virtual reality is already making waves in assisted living facilities across the country. VR headsets can provide enhanced experiences to older adults who are otherwise limited in how far they can travel and move through the world. With VR, they can watch a Broadway musical or take a virtual hike through a redwood forest. And these experiences are more than just a bit of funthey have real wellness benefits for seniors.VR is a promising therapeutic tool that could provide another way to help seniors with dementia, depression, and other mental health challenges. Were just beginning to explore the full potential of VR technology for helping seniors thrive.Find the Best Senior Living Care for Your Loved OneIf youre interested in finding a senior living option for your loved one thats on the cutting edge of health, safety, & wellness technology, CarePatrol can help. Our senior living advisors take your familys needs and preferences to heart, providing personalized recommendations so you can find a perfect fit.