Elder Maze Solutions

Whether you're traveling from across the street or across the country, holiday gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to assess the well-being of your aging family members. These festive occasions, filled with dinners, gift exchanges, and parties, offer a natural setting to observe any changes in behavior or lifestyle that may have occurred since your last visit.Changes in an elderly relative's condition can range from obvious to subtle. To help you gauge their current physical and mental state, we've compiled a comprehensive list of areas to observe and questions to consider during your time together.EnvironmentThe condition of your loved one's living space can offer valuable insights into their ability to maintain their home and overall well-being. Look for the following:Signs of damage or disrepair in and around the houseAccumulation of trash or clutterBurned-out light bulbs left unchangedDecline in cleanliness, particularly in the kitchen and bathroomUnopened mail piling upItems stored in unusual or potentially hazardous locationsDamage to their vehicle, such as unexplained scratches or dentsThese observations can indicate difficulties with home maintenance, mobility, or cognitive function.Food and NutritionProper nutrition is crucial for seniors. During your visit, pay attention to:The quantity and quality of food in the refrigerator and pantryPresence of expired or spoiled food itemsSigns of weight loss or malnutritionIndications that meals are being skipped or forgottenPoor nutrition can significantly impact an elderly person's health and may signal the need for additional support.Mood and BehaviorChanges in mood or behavior can be early indicators of cognitive decline or other health issues. Watch for:Withdrawal from social activities or abandonment of once-enjoyed hobbiesNew friendships or organizational affiliations, especially those involving frequent contact or requests for donationsIncreased confusion or repetition in conversationsSigns of irritability, apathy, or sadnessGeneral withdrawal or changes in typical demeanorThese behavioral shifts may warrant further investigation or professional assessment.Personal HygienePersonal care habits can provide valuable clues about an individual's physical and mental state. Look for:Decline in overall grooming and appearanceWearing dirty clothes or not changing clothes regularlySkipping showers or bathsBruises or injuries that might indicate falls or accidentsPoor hygiene can be a sign of physical limitations, depression, or cognitive impairment.Financial ManagementWhile not always easy to observe, changes in financial management can be crucial indicators of cognitive decline or potential exploitation. If possible, discreetly assess:Bill payment habits and any signs of financial distressUnusual or large purchasesUnfamiliar names on financial documentsSudden changes in banking habits or account managementFinancial mismanagement can have serious consequences and may require prompt intervention.Medication ManagementFor seniors taking multiple medications, proper management is essential. Observe:Organization of medicationsPresence of expired prescriptionsSigns of missed doses or confusion about medication schedulesMedication errors can lead to serious health complications and may indicate the need for additional support.Social ConnectionsMaintaining social connections is vital for seniors' mental and emotional well-being. Take note of:Frequency and quality of interactions with friends and neighborsParticipation in community activities or religious servicesUse of technology to stay connected with family and friendsSocial isolation can contribute to depression and cognitive decline in older adults.Remember, this list is not exhaustive but serves as a guide to help you check in on your aging loved ones. By observing these areas and initiating conversations early, you can identify potential issues and provide timely support. If you notice concerning changes, consider consulting with healthcare professionals or senior care experts for guidance.The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your elderly relatives. Use this time to observe, listen, and engage meaningfully. Your attentiveness can make a significant difference in ensuring their continued well-being and quality of life.Aging Life Care Managers are an excellent resource for support. Working with families, an Aging Life Care Manager is a strategic planner offering options and solutions that best fit a persons individual needs and resources. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress, and time away from work for family caregivers.

Caring for an older adult with cognitive difficulties, such as dementia or Alzheimers disease, requires patience, empathy, and a thoughtful approach to daily activities. As our loved ones with dementia might have communication challenges, we become more attuned to observing body language and facial expressions. The right activities can provide a sense of purpose, stimulate memory, and improve overall well-being. However, choosing the wrong activities can lead to frustration or confusion. This guide offers practical advice on the dos and donts of engaging loved ones with cognitive decline.Do:        Simplify tasks and break them down into smaller steps.For example, if your loved one enjoyed cooking, involve them in simple tasks like stirring ingredients or setting the table. This allows them to participate without feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the activity.Familiar rote tasks can provide a sense of purpose and success i.e.: folding towels or setting the table.Dont:        Set up for failureAvoid setting high expectations for perfection or completion of tasks. The goal is engagement, not mastery. If your loved one loses interest or struggles with a task, its okay to move on to something else without pressure. Try active listening techniques.Do:        Promote social interactionEngage in activities that foster social interaction, like looking through old photo albums, reminiscing about the past, or participating in small group activities. Social engagement is crucial for older adults as it helps combat feelings of isolation and keeps their minds active. Offer prompting open-ended questions to encourage engagement. Consider looking for a local Adult Day Center near you that might offer activities and social interaction.Dont:        Overwhelm with large gatheringsAvoid large social gatherings or unfamiliar environments that could cause sensory overload or anxiety. Instead, keep interactions small and personal, with familiar faces and settings to provide a sense of security and comfort.Do:        Watch television: many of us utilize television for entertainment but it can often become the primary source of structure and activity for the day.Watching cooking shows can be good if you are looking to improve appetite but can also cause overeating.Watching nature programs with positive content is engaging, however cycle-of-life or aggressive programming (like natural disasters) can produce anxiety. Baby animal shows can be a particular favorite as there is no plot to follow.Watching beloved shows can be nostalgic and comforting, and comedy skit shows also have no plot to follow.Consider what types of programs are watched at different times of day something with no speaking and just photography is good for resting, and sports might spark a desire for more activity.Dont:        Allow TV to cause anxiety or be a substitute for activity or personal interactionWatching the news can be distressing for some and cause anxietyConfrontational talk show formats can be confusing and angry participants may display unwanted behaviors.Sitting in front of the TV all day isnt good for anyone, and this is not engaging in socialization or cognitive stimulation.Do:        Incorporate music and artUse music and art as therapeutic tools. Older adults with cognitive difficulties often respond well to music from their youth or simple art activities like coloring or painting. These activities can stimulate the senses and provide a creative outlet, even for those with advanced cognitive impairment.Dont:        Use Activities that require complex decision-makingAvoid activities that require complex decision-making or too many choices. This can be overwhelming and may lead to frustration. Instead, offer simple, clear options that allow for easy participation. Offer a choice between two things such as menu items or daily clothing choices.Do:        Accept help when caregiving becomes overwhelming.Consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager.  An Aging Life Care Manager can provide expert guidance, help coordinate care, and offer support in making decisions for your loved one.  Dont:        Set your expectations too high or schedule too full.Try to go with the flow and understand things might not go exactly as planned and thats okay. Schedule in extra time for activities or to get to appointments. If you feel frustrated, step away, regain composure (your loved one if not being difficult on purpose) and try again with a new energy. Read tips on how to deal with caregiver stress.As you consider what activity choices to offer your loved one, consider variety and time of day. Include exercise and socialization, as well as hygiene and rest. Modify, modify, modify. If they seem overwhelmed with an activity, try simplifying to a point they can successfully engage. For example: a puzzle with fewer and larger pieces, simple matching games, and activities to stimulate fine motor skills. Remember not to infantilize your loved one, but rather adjust to their needs. Be mindful of your loved ones response to an activity and be flexible with both them and yourself.

As our senior loved ones age, we may start seeing physical and mental signs of decline. While some signs are not worrisome, others may be more concerning: anxiety, depression, forgetfulness, and mishandling money. These could indicate more serious issues and are risky behaviors. So here are four things you can do to help your aging loved one manage their finances. Four Ways to Help Your Aging Loved One Manage Finances:1. Stepping Up to Help With Daily TasksAs they age, your loved one may start having difficulty remembering important things such as taking their medications and getting refills on time. If you notice your loved one is no longer able to keep track of due dates for their bills or forgets to pick up their mail and leaves letters unopened, it is time for a conversation. Ask them if you can take charge of their finances in order to avoid overdraft fees, missed due dates, and other potential problems.If you live far away or if you cannot visit regularly, consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager to check on your loved one, assess their needs, and recommend on-going services. Share a calendar with their care team to let them know about appointments, and make a readily-accessible list of phone numbers that include doctors, pharmacies, banking institutions, and emergency numbers. 2. Finding a Suitable RentalAnother consideration is your loved ones living arrangement. A popular option is finding a new, accessible, rental home or apartment, which means less maintenance than owning a home. When scouting rentals, look in neighborhoods with the amenities they need. View online listings to find properties in their price range to locate the perfect place. 3. Getting Power of AttorneyAsk your senior loved one if theyre willing to grant you power of attorney, which will allow you to make medical and/or financial decisions for them when theyre no longer able to do so. A power of attorney is a flexible document that lets your loved one (the principal) specify what decisions can be made on their behalf by another person (the agent). The principal can amend or make changes to that document at any time, provided they are of sound mind.Once you fill out the required forms and have them notarized, print extra copies for your records and put them in a safe place. Being legally prepared before your loved one becomes ill or incapacitated will give both of you peace of mind taking the guesswork out of what should happen and knowing that your loved ones wishes will be respected in the event theyre no longer able to clearly communicate. 4. Closing or Selling Your Loved Ones BusinessWhen your loved one owns a business but can no longer manage it, it is time to close or sell it. There are many steps involved in dissolving an LLC or corporation, so consult with an accountant or attorney in order to avoid penalties. You will have to gather all documents pertaining to the company such as articles of incorporation and operating agreement and be able to provide a potential buyer with several years of tax returns, profit and loss statements, and client/vendor contracts, etc.Get a professional business valuation in order to properly and objectively determine its value. A good business broker will help you come up with a number by analyzing the companys management, capital structure, future earnings, and market value of its assets, and will facilitate and streamline the selling process.It can be a difficult conversation, but it is important. Take time to discuss your loved ones financial situation. Together, come up with a plan that will keep them financially secure. Youll have greater peace of mind knowing that everything is in order.5. EfficiencyAging Life Care Managers streamline care processes, reducing redundancies and ensuring efficient use of resources. They help avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and inappropriate placements, which can save significant costs. For example, an Aging Life Care Manager might identify that a clients frequent hospital visits are due to medication mismanagement and work to set up a system where medications are properly administered at home, thus reducing the need for hospital care (Yang). What Distinguishes an Aging Life Care Manager from Other Geriatric Care Managers?Aging Life Care Professionals are distinguished by their membership in ALCA, which sets them apart through rigorous education, experience, and certification standards. Aging Life Care Professionals must meet stringent education and certification requirements, which include formal higher education in related fields such as gerontology, nursing, or social work, and professional certifications like Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Case Manager (CCM) . Additionally, they adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring a high level of professionalism and quality care.When to Engage the Services of an Aging Life Care Professional for Yourself or Your Loved OneKnowing when to engage the services of an Aging Life Care Professional can be challenging. Here are some indicators that it might be time to seek help: The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues. They are unable to live safely in their current environment. They are not pleased with current care providers and require advocacy. They are confused about their own financial and/or legal situation. They have limited or no family support. Your family is burned out or confused about care solutions. You have limited time and/or expertise in dealing with the individuals chronic care needs and/or do not live close by. Your family is at odds regarding care decisions. You need education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.  Evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals for Yourself or Your Loved OneWhen evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals, consider the following: Credentials and Certification: Ensure the Aging Life Care Professional is certified and a member of ALCA. Experience: Look for professionals with substantial experience in geriatric care management. References and Reviews: Seek references from previous clients and read reviews to gauge their reputation and effectiveness. Compatibility: Choose someone who is compatible with your family and understands your specific needs and preferences. Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial; the Aging Life Care Professional should be able to clearly explain care plans and updates.  Understanding Aging Life Care ManagementAging Life Care Management is not just about addressing immediate health concerns but also about providing a holistic and proactive approach to care. This includes planning for future needs, advocating for the client within the healthcare system, and supporting the family through emotional and logistical challenges.Its about enhancing the overall quality of life for both the older adult and their family.Advice for Planning for Healthy AgingPlanning for healthy aging involves being proactive about your health, finances, and lifestyle choices. Here are some key pieces of advice from ALCA: Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental health to stay physically and mentally fit. Plan Financially: Save and invest wisely to ensure financial stability in your later years. Consider long-term care insurance and other financial products that can help cover future care needs. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about aging and the resources available to support you. Stay connected with community services and support networks. Be Proactive About Healthcare: Regular health check-ups and screenings can help detect and manage potential health issues early. Build a Support Network: Cultivate strong relationships with family, friends, and community members who can provide support as you age.   Aging Life Care Management is an invaluable resource for families navigating the complexities of elder care. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that older adults receive comprehensive, compassionate care while supporting and relieving the burdens on their families. By understanding and utilizing the services provided by these professionals, families can enhance the quality of life for their loved ones and themselves. For more detailed information and resources, the Aging Life Care Association website is an excellent place to start.

What Distinguishes an Aging Life Care Manager from Other Geriatric Care Managers? What is Aging Life Care Management? Aging Life Care Management, also known as geriatric care management, focuses on improving the quality of life for older adults and their families through comprehensive planning and management of care needs. This involves addressing not only health concerns but also financial, legal, and social aspects to ensure the well-being of older adults. Aging Life Care Professionals or Aging Life Care Managers are members of the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA) and differ from Patient Advocates, Senior Advisors, Senior Navigators, and Elder Advocates. ALCA members must meet stringent education, experience, and certification requirements of the organization, and all members are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Benefits of Aging Life Care Management Engaging an Aging Life Care Manager can offer numerous benefits: 1. Expertise and Knowledge Aging Life Care Managers bring specialized knowledge and experience in elder care, ensuring that the client receives the best possible care. They are well-versed in managing conditions such as dementia, Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and other chronic illnesses. For example, they can recognize early signs of cognitive decline and coordinate with healthcare providers to manage it effectively. If a family is struggling to manage the needs of a beloved relative with Alzheimers? An Aging Life Care Manager can provide a detailed care plan, recommend suitable memory care facilities, and ensure that the parent receives appropriate therapies to slow disease progression. 2. Stress Reduction By handling complex care tasks and providing emotional support, Aging Life Care Managers reduce the stress and burden on family caregivers. They can step in during emergencies, offering a 24/7 point of contact, which alleviates the constant worry families often experience. Studies have shown that family caregivers often experience high levels of stress, with about 40-70% showing significant symptoms of depression (American Psychological Association). Having professional support can significantly reduce these mental health challenges. 3. Improved Outcomes An Aging Life Care Managers comprehensive approach can lead to better health outcomes and enhanced quality of life for the older adult. Continuous monitoring and timely interventions can prevent hospital readmissions and manage chronic conditions effectively. Research indicates that coordinated care management can reduce hospital readmission rates by up to 20%, highlighting the effectiveness of proactive care management (Finlayson et al.). 4. Efficiency Aging Life Care Managers streamline care processes, reducing redundancies and ensuring efficient use of resources. They help avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and inappropriate placements, which can save significant costs. For example, an Aging Life Care Manager might identify that a clients frequent hospital visits are due to medication mismanagement and work to set up a system where medications are properly administered at home, thus reducing the need for hospital care (Yang). What Distinguishes an Aging Life Care Manager from Other Geriatric Care Managers? Aging Life Care Professionals are distinguished by their membership in ALCA, which sets them apart through rigorous education, experience, and certification standards. Aging Life Care Professionals must meet stringent education and certification requirements, which include formal higher education in related fields such as gerontology, nursing, or social work, and professional certifications like Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Case Manager (CCM) . Additionally, they adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring a high level of professionalism and quality care.   When to Engage the Services of an Aging Life Care Professional for Yourself or Your Loved One Knowing when to engage the services of an Aging Life Care Professional can be challenging. Here are some indicators that it might be time to seek help: The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues. They are unable to live safely in their current environment. They are not pleased with current care providers and require advocacy. They are confused about their own financial and/or legal situation. They have limited or no family support. Your family is burned out or confused about care solutions. You have limited time and/or expertise in dealing with the individuals chronic care needs and/or do not live close by. Your family is at odds regarding care decisions. You need education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.   Evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals for Yourself or Your Loved One When evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals, consider the following: Credentials and Certification: Ensure the Aging Life Care Professional is certified and a member of ALCA. Experience: Look for professionals with substantial experience in geriatric care management. References and Reviews: Seek references from previous clients and read reviews to gauge their reputation and effectiveness. Compatibility: Choose someone who is compatible with your family and understands your specific needs and preferences. Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial; the Aging Life Care Professional should be able to clearly explain care plans and updates.   Understanding Aging Life Care Management Aging Life Care Management is not just about addressing immediate health concerns but also about providing a holistic and proactive approach to care. This includes planning for future needs, advocating for the client within the healthcare system, and supporting the family through emotional and logistical challenges. Its about enhancing the overall quality of life for both the older adult and their family. Advice for Planning for Healthy Aging Planning for healthy aging involves being proactive about your health, finances, and lifestyle choices. Here are some key pieces of advice from ALCA: Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental health to stay physically and mentally fit. Plan Financially: Save and invest wisely to ensure financial stability in your later years. Consider long-term care insurance and other financial products that can help cover future care needs. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about aging and the resources available to support you. Stay connected with community services and support networks. Be Proactive About Healthcare: Regular health check-ups and screenings can help detect and manage potential health issues early. Build a Support Network: Cultivate strong relationships with family, friends, and community members who can provide support as you age. Aging Life Care Management is an invaluable resource for families navigating the complexities of elder care. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that older adults receive comprehensive, compassionate care while supporting and relieving the burdens on their families. By understanding and utilizing the services provided by these professionals, families can enhance the quality of life for their loved ones and themselves. For more detailed information and resources, the Aging Life Care Association website is an excellent place to start.

As our parents age, it becomes increasingly important to be aware of signs that they may need additional support. While many older adults fiercely value their independence, there are often subtle indicators that assistance is necessary to ensure their safety, health, and overall well-being.Key Signs Your Aging Parent Needs Help:Changes in Physical Appearance and HygieneA noticeable decline in personal grooming habits or hygiene can be a red flag. This may include wearing soiled clothing, infrequent bathing, or neglecting oral care. Significant weight changes, either gain or loss, can also indicate difficulties with meal preparation or underlying health issues.Household Management IssuesKeep an eye out for:Expired food in the refrigerator or a strong odor in the kitchenPiling up of mail, especially unpaid billsCluttered or disorganized living spacesNeglected home maintenance, both interior and exteriorMedication MismanagementDifficulties with medication can have serious consequences. Watch for:Confusion about dosages or schedulesUnopened pill bottles or untouched medication boxesMedications spilled on the floorCognitive and Emotional ChangesBe alert to:Increased forgetfulness or confusionChanges in mood or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activitiesSigns of loneliness or social isolation Mobility and Safety ConcernsLook out for:Unexplained bruising or injuriesDifficulty with walking, balance, or getting up from seated positionsNew scratches or dents on the car, indicating potential driving issuesTaking ActionIf you notice one or more of these signs, it's time to have a conversation with your parent. Approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for their desire for independence. Involving other family members can help facilitate discussions and decision-making.Remember that early intervention can prevent crises and ensure your parent receives the appropriate level of care. This might involve exploring options such as in-home assistance, meal delivery services, or senior living communities that can provide the necessary support while maintaining as much independence as possible.By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your aging parent navigate this new phase of life with dignity and ensure their needs are met in a way that respects their wishes and preserves their quality of life.If you notice just one of these happening with your parent, it is time to have a conversation. If you need help starting that conversation or implementing a plan of care, consider working with an Aging Life Care Professional. Aging Life Care Professionals understand the frustration felt by adult children and the desperation felt by older adults who want to hold on to their independence. With an objective perspective on the situation, we can help facilitate difficult family discussions and decision-making to address these and other concerns.