Senior Helpers North Metro

Your senior loved one's safety is a top priority. Fire safety is an important topic, and all seniors should be aware of it. Knowing the basics and how to prevent fires can save lives and property damage, so seniors need to understand the dangers associated with fire and take steps to protect themselves from potential risks.  Fire safety basics seniors need to start by understanding the basics of fire. To start and continue burning, fire needs three things: oxygen, heat, and fuel. A fire can start quickly when these elements are present in the right amounts and conditions. Fires spread rapidly when given an opportunity, so seniors need to have a plan in place if one were to occur.SMOKE ALARMS:Smoke alarms are one of the most critical fire safety devices for seniors. All homes must have working smoke alarms installed on every floor and bedroom.  Smoke alarms should be tested monthly to ensure they are working properly, and the batteries should be changed at least once a year.  Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers are another essential tool in a fire safety plan. Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher that is easy to access and in good working order.  Seniors need to know how to use the extinguisher correctly, so they can safely put out small fires before they become larger ones. FIRE ESCAPE PLAN:Creating and practicing a fire escape plan can ensure a senior's safety in the event of an emergency. Seniors should develop an evacuation route that includes two ways out of each room, such as windows or doors, and designate a meeting spot outside where everyone can meet up once they are safely out of the home. FIRE PREVENTION TIPS:There are several steps seniors can take to prevent fires in their homes. ELECTRICAL SAFETY: Electricity can be dangerous and cause fires in any home. To prevent electrical fires, seniors should: make sure that all outlets and wiring are up-to-date and safe  keep cords away from high-traffic areas where they could become damaged or worn out over time never overload an outlet with too many appliances, and always unplug small appliances when not in use.COOKING SAFETY:Cooking can also be a source of fire in the home. To prevent cooking fires, seniors should never leave food unattended on the stove or oven and always keep flammable items away from heat sources such as stoves or grills. All appliances should be properly maintained and regularly cleaned to avoid grease buildup that could start a fire.  HEATING SAFETY:Heating sources such as furnaces, stoves, and fireplaces can be a fire hazard. To prevent fires from these sources, seniors should always keep flammable items away from heat sources. Chimneys or vents should be regularly inspected and cleaned to avoid the buildup that could start a fire.SMOKING SAFETY: Smoking also causes house fires. To prevent fires caused by smoking, seniors should always use large, deep ashtrays and never leave lit cigarettes unattended.  Make sure that cigarettes are entirely extinguished before disposing of them in an ashtray or garbage can.SENIORS HELPERS ROSEVILLE CARES:Knowing the basics of fire safety and how to prevent fires can save lives and property damage. If your senior loved one in St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, or North Oaks, MN, needs assistance with daily tasks and safety basics, Senior Helpers can help. Contact us today to learn more about our services.  You can reach us at 651-800-4163 or visit our website at www.seniorhelpers.com/mn/roseville/

It's no secret that getting a flu shot is important for everyone, but it's especially important for seniors.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) recommends that all people aged 65 and older get an annual flu shot to help protect them from the potentially serious consequences of influenza. Learn more about the reasons and where to get a flu shot.   The benefits of the flu shot for seniors.  The flu shot is crucial for seniors, as the virus can severely affect older people. People over 65 may be at an increased risk of influenza-related complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization. Here's a look at some of the benefitsProtection From the Flu and Other Serious Diseases.  The flu shot not only protects against seasonal influenza but also other serious illnesses like pneumonia and meningitis that can occur with or without being exposed to the flu  virus. For example, pneumococcal disease (PD) is caused by bacteria and causes severe respiratory illness that can lead to death in seniors. Getting vaccinated against PD significantly reduces your chances of becoming ill with this type of infection, as well as other types such as hepatitis B, shingles, HPV, and more.Reduced Risk of ComplicationsThe CDC estimates that each year in the U.S., between 16,000 and 48,000 die due to complications from influenza viruses circulating during that period. However, those numbers could be much higher if not for vaccinations protecting Americans against these dangerous viruses.  In addition to reducing fatalities associated with influenza-related diseases among seniors, there are other benefits when getting vaccinated. These benefits include reduced severity of symptoms should you become ill despite vaccination efforts. It can also help to reduce hospitalizations associated with severe cases caused by certain strains of influenzas.  Vaccinations can decrease costs when seniors are hospitalized for treatment due to infections caused by the flu.  Vaccine RecommendationsThe Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends yearly vaccinations against influenza beginning at the age of six months. They specifically recommend vaccination annually for adults aged 65 years or older due to their increased susceptibility to developing serious health consequences from Influenza infections.  Vaccines recommended may differ depending on a person's overall medical history, so consulting your doctor is always highly suggested before making any decisions regarding receiving any vaccinations.When to Talk to Your Doctor Before Getting a Flu ShotBefore getting the flu shot, seniors should talk to their doctors about possible risk factors that could make them more likely to have an adverse reaction after receiving the vaccine. These risk factors include but are not limited to: Chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or COPD Weakened immune systems due to medications Allergies to eggsYour doctor can also provide information about when it's safe for you to get vaccinated if you recently had certain illnesses or immunizations.What To Expect After You Get a Flu ShotMost people experience no side effects after getting the flu shot. However, some may experience minor soreness or redness around the injection site as well as low-grade fever, chills, and fatigue which usually resolve within 24 hours. For those who do experience side effects, they typically last only one to two days and very rarely result in more serious symptoms that require further medical attention from a healthcare provider. It's important, however, to know potential signs and symptoms indicating adverse reactions occur because these might include: Difficulty breathing*Hives Swelling of the face or throatThese reactions require immediate treatment from a qualified professional.

Fall is upon us, and winter is following close behind. That being said, more often than not, windows are now being closed and more people, including seniors, are spending time inside their homes with less exposure to fresh air. So, with less fresh air circulating through the home, and less time outside, improving the air quality inside the home becomes increasingly important.  Here are some suggestions to help improve the air quality inside your senior's home as the weather changes in St. Paul, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks, MN.Change the Air Conditioning FilterIt may seem obvious, and perhaps even a touch cliche, but, changing your air conditioning filter can make a huge difference in the air quality of your home in St. Paul and New Brighton, and that of your senior. The air conditioning system cycles through the air in the home continually, filtering out common pollutants as it does so, increasing the air quality in your home.  The issue arises, however, when the air filter becomes clogged, and the air that moves through can no longer be filtered or cleaned. When that occurs, the air quality in the home drops considerably, allowing for allergens and other toxins to remain in the air. It is also a good idea to check other filters in the house, such as the vacuum and the clothes dryer, to ensure that all filters contribute to good quality air in your home and that of your senior.Check Your Air DuctsThe air ducts in your home are responsible for the flow of all of the warm and cold air, distributing air throughout the home. Ducts that are not properly installed or maintained can collect dust, dirt, particles, and even small insects. This can tremendously decrease the quality of the air in your home and that of your senior. It is wise to have ducts cleaned by a professional on a routine basis to ensure that they are as clean and properly maintained as possible. This helps keep the good air quality in your home in Shoreview and North Oaks and keeps you and your senior safe and healthy.Keep Rugs and Carpets CleanBelieve it or not, your rugs and carpets collect a great deal of dust and debris in your home. Whether it is from people walking over it, particles in the air or particles hung in the humidity in your home, your carpets and rugs collect a plethora of particles. Its essential to vacuum and have carpets cleaned periodically to help eradicate some of the dust and particles in the air. Ensure the Best Indoor Air Quality for Your SeniorThere are many ways to maintain the best air quality in your home so you can enhance the overall health and well-being of everyone living there as the weather is starting to grow colder. And you dont have to do it alone.  Senior Helpers of Roseville, which serves Roseville and the surrounding areas of St. Paul, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks, helps your senior age in place, providing companion services to support your senior every day. As companions for your senior, they can help to work with you to implement solutions to help your senior be happy, healthy, and thrive in their home. This includes helping ensure steps are taken to improve the air quality in their home as the weather changes. Contact us today to learn how we can best support you and your senior loved ones at any time of the year.  Call us today at 651-414-9131 or visit our website at https://www.seniorhelpers.com/mn/roseville/

Life can lead us in many directions and eventually you can find yourself living further away from your parents.As they age, it can become difficult for your loved one to continue to live as they always have, and they may begin to needsupport with their daily activities. As professional caregivers at Senior Helpers of Roseville we want to share a few waysyou can care for your senior loved ones that will make a huge difference in their lives.  Even if you moved away from the Arden Hills, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Little Canada, Maplewood, Minneapolis areas there are still many ways you can support youraging parents from miles away.1. Keep in touchThe best way you can support your loved one from afar and make sure they are stayingsafe at home, is to regularly keep in touch. Daily phone calls are a great way to let yourloved one know you are thinking of them, but it is also helpful to monitor their wellbeingand cognitive function. You may also want to video chat with them so you can assesstheir physical appearance to see if they are eating enough, bathing and taking care oftheir overall health.2. Get Some HelpYou don't have to care for your aging loved ones by yourself. There are many optionsavailable so that they can continue to live their best lives in their own homes. SeniorHelpers of Roseville offers customized care plans that with as much or as little help asyou need. Respite care can be used for a few days when you need extra help. You mayalso have someone come in and check up on your loved ones for a few hours aday. Contact Us today to set up an in-home assessment!3. Have an Emergency Plan ReadyThough you may not want to think about it, you should have an emergency plan readyin case you need to get to your loved one right away. Make sure that you havesomeone you trust available to look after your home or children should you need toleave quickly. It may also be a good idea to have an emergency bag packed just in caseyou have to leave in a hurry.Learn More About Caring for Aging Loved Ones Who Live Far AwayIf you need help so that your parent can continue to live in their Roseville home, don'thesitate to contact us today. We will be glad to talk to you about your options so thattogether we can figure out what is best for your loved one.

Everyone, including the elderly, enjoys spending time outside during the day. In some seasons, such as winter, the sun sets earlier than usual, discouraging many people, particularly seniors, from engaging in activities such as driving at night and meeting with friends in the late evenings. Even in these difficult times, socializing is an important part of our daily lives.If you are a senior in St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks, MN, and you are worried that earlier sunsets are limiting your outdoor activities, there are methods of coping with loneliness and isolation during these times that could help you care for your senior lifestyle.Finding a HobbyFinding new activities to engage in is a smart approach to keep yourself busy. When you challenge yourself with something new, your life becomes more interesting. This allows you to push yourself. Learning a new skill can help you meet new people with similar interests, which not only relieves stress but also makes you livelier and helps you deal with loneliness.ExercisePhysical exercise is generally a good way to take care of our psychological health.  Walking in groups in St. Paul is a great way to engage yourself socially and maintain  your physical and psychological health. Building social connections in Roseville or North Oaks like this is also great for your mental health since it helps with relaxation. Other benefits of exercise include: Prevents some diseases Lowers the risk of getting dementia Raises your mood Relieves stressGet in Touch with Your NeighborsMaintaining social connections is beneficial to your mental health. Interacting and socializing with your neighbors is an excellent way to develop and strengthen these relationships because they live nearby.  If you're feeling lonely with your neighbors in New Brighton, you could always come up with fun outdoor activities to do together. Having helpful and friendly neighbors can even reduce the risk of having a heart attack.Use Communication TechnologiesThe majority of people find it difficult to interact with others, whether due to social anxiety or other similar factors. Because their friends and family may live in distant locations, such people may find it difficult to interact with others. These individuals do not have to be concerned about being alone. You can always call or video chat with your loved ones using communication tools such as phones and laptops. You could even try getting companion robots to keep you company. Adopt a PetAccording to the NIA, pets can be a wonderful source of comfort and relaxation. Getting a dog or cat in Shoreview is a good way to fill your time because you will need to care for and feed them regularly. If you believe in your ability to care for them, these furry friends can be a genuine source of joy and lower blood pressure.  Fight Loneliness and Isolation with the Best In-Home Caregivers.  The safety, well-being, and comfort of all your senior loved ones are our priority.  At Senior Helpers Roseville, MN, we offer quality in-home care offered by our experienced caregivers in St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks, MN. We offer good companionship to your elderly loved ones, and our caregivers also help out with light household work. Contact us today to benefit from the best quality in-home care.  Call us today at 651-414-9131 or visit our website at https://www.seniorhelpers.com/mn/roseville/

As seniors, it is normal to try and manager multiple prescription medications at once, but it can be challenging. that's why Senior Helpers Roseville, MN, is here to help you. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of staying organized with your medications, as well as some tips on how to do so. Read on to learn more!Benefits of Organizing Prescription MedicationsBy organizing prescription medications, seniors can easily keep track of which medications have been taken and when to take them. Additionally, organizing your medications ensures that you are taking them as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. Organizing medications also helps with reducing medication errors and potentially avoiding trips to the emergency room. Tips for Organizing Prescription MedicationsTake medications out of the drugstore packaging and organize them in a pillbox or other container. Create a daily schedule for taking medications. Always check the expiration dates on medications. Be mindful of any changes in medication dosages and times. Write down all prescriptions and recent changes to medications.Label each medication with its name, dosage, and frequency of use.Never Share Prescription MedicationIt is never a good idea to share any prescription medications with family or friends. Each person's body is different, and the medications may react differently in each person. It is important to consult with your doctor if you have any questions about your medications. Your doctor might also be able to recommend some strategies for medication management that could prove to be helpful for you.Set Medication RemindersSetting reminders for taking medications is important for seniors to ensure that medications are being taken as prescribed. You can set reminders on your phone or use an online tool or app to remind you when to take your medications. You can also ask family or friends to set reminders for you.Consult With Your Doctor if NecessaryIf you are feeling overwhelmed trying to organize your medications, it is recommended to consult with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you better understand the medications you are taking and provide additional tips for organizing your medications.Senior Helpers Can Assist With Medication OrganizationIf you're looking for more help in organizing your medications, reach out to Senior Helpers Roseville today to get the personalized care you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer in St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks.

Dying wishes are a difficult and often uncomfortable conversation to have. Emotions may become heightened, the topic of mortality can be delicate, and individuals must think about decisions that would take place should they no longer be able to make those choices. Having an advance directive in place offers your senior family member peace of mind during this time. Still, you might be unsure how to approach this sensitive conversation. Here is some guidance and advice courtesy of Senior Helpers Roseville.Benefits of Advance Directive PlanningAdvance directive planning is incredibly meaningful for seniors and their families. It allows your aging family member to remain in control of the decisions that must be made should they become unable to make choices themselves. This eliminates inter-family disagreements about what kind of care or treatments are appropriate and reduces confusion amongst healthcare professionals when it comes time to implement them. Additionally, having an advance directive can act as a legal document that states the wishes of your loved one, ensuring that their values and beliefs are protected in this difficult situation. How to Approach Your Senior About Advance Directive Planning Bringing up this conversation can be daunting for many family members. To make sure your senior loved one feels supported and heard during the process, consider these tips:Respect their autonomy throughout the discussion. Allow them to express their thoughts without interruption or judgment. Make sure to reference any decisions they have made as a sign of respect and admiration for them. For instance, if they previously acknowledged that they would like to remain in their own home, refer back so they know you're taking into account their wishes.Explain why currently-in-place plans are important with tactfulness and diplomacy. Stress that having an advance directive allows opinions about future healthcare treatments to remain consistent should general cognitive abilities reduce over time. Letting them know that you want what's best for them is key here; remind your senior relative of how much you care for them when considering possible solutions together.  Remain Compassionate in Your ApproachEnd-of-life conversations can be incredibly difficult to navigate, and showing kindness and compassion on each party's part goes a long way. Oftentimes, elderly individuals may be resistant to the idea of an advance care plan at firstthey could feel that setting such a plan implies that their death is inevitable or inevitable soon, which can cause anxiety. Thoughtful and sensitive communication will help ease these fears as your senior loved one navigates this new situation.Senior Helpers Provides Compassionate Care ServicesCreating an advance directive requires careful discussions and thought. With thoughtful communication and understanding, you can help your senior loved one feel confident in the decisions they're making. At Senior Helpers Roseville, we are here to support seniors in the St. Paul, Roseville, New Brighton, Shoreview, and North Oaks areas throughout life's transitionsif you have questions about end-of-life planning for a family member, please don't hesitate to contact us today at 651-414-9131 or visit our website at https://www.seniorhelpers.com/mn/roseville/