Archive for the ‘Alzheimers’ Category

How to Assess In-Home Care Needs

Posted on: January 23rd, 2012 by aagingbetter

If you or a loved one has made the decision to age in place and receive in-home care, the next step is to assess the level of care that you will require.  There is a classic assessment test called the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, developed to help professional caregivers assess the level of assistance needed in the home.  However, the following is a list of some of the main daily activities that anyone can use to help determine theirs or their loved one’s in-home care needs.

  • Ability to use a telephone: This is an important function for seniors in the event of an emergency.  If the senior can operate a phone, look up phone numbers, and dial a few well-known numbers, he or she may not need assistance in this area.  However, if the senior can only answer the phone, but not dial, or cannot use a phone at all, this is a strong indication that some level of in-home assistance is needed.
  • Shopping: Depending on mobility, some seniors may be able to shop for themselves, while others may need someone to accompany them to the store or to have their shopping done by a home caregiver.  This, along with meal preparation, is one of the primary services we at  AAging Better In-Home Care offer our clients.
  • Food preparation: Proper nutrition is important for aging seniors, and you may find that your loved ones are not maintaining an adequate diet from the meals they prepare for themselves.  If this is the case, they may need assistance with meal and snack preparation.
  • Housekeeping: Daily household chores can be daunting for most frail seniors.  This is an area where many home-care clients require assistance to help maintain the proper upkeep and safety of their homes.  Again, this is one of the primary services we offer.
  • Medication responsibilities: A certain amount of memory loss is common with aging, so many seniors feel the need to have medication reminders.  This is one of the most frequent services we offer to clients in their homes or those already in Assisted Living Facilities.  For seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, this assistance is particularly important.

Seniors will likely find that, as they age, their need for assistance in many areas of daily living will increase.  Contact Aaging Better In-Home Care for further details about how we can help assess your in-home care needs and to discuss the many different options for care.  Contact us online or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls or Hayden areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest River areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Wallace or Pinehurst areas.

 

Determining the Right Care for Your Needs

Posted on: January 16th, 2012 by aagingbetter

Home care providers offer many services to help meet an individual’s care needs and to help him or her age or recover safely and comfortably at home.  Determining just what services the person requires, however, can be a bit overwhelming.  We’ve broken down some of the main functions and ability levels that we take into account when recommending either limited or full-time home care to help you in researching options.

Minimal to Minor Care at Home:

  • Emergency Responsiveness: The individual is able to negotiate stairs, call for assistance or respond appropriately to someone helping him or her during an emergency.
  • Mobility: The individual is able to walk and transfer himself or herself from a bed or chair independently with infrequent falling.
  • Activities of Daily Living (bathing, dressing, feeding, etc.): The individual is able to accomplish most activities with little help; perhaps needs assistance with meals or housekeeping, or reminders about medications, assistance grooming, etc.
  • Mental Status: The individual has little to no mental impairment.

Move to Full-time Care at Home:

  • Emergency Responsiveness: The individual needs definite or major assistance in the event of an emergency.
  • Mobility: The individual is prone to falls and needs either stand-by or full assistance walking or transferring.
  • Activities of Daily Living: The individual needs reminders and/or full assistance with many or all activities of daily living.
  • Mental Status: The individual has mild to moderate memory impairment, becomes disoriented often, and/or exhibits mild confusion.

If the individual is in need of full, round-the-clock assistance, our agency is well equipped to offer this service to families or the individual.  However, if significant dementia or Alzheimers is a large part of the picture, family members may want to consider an assisted living facility.  If your family needs further guidance in determining the level of care for a relative, Aaging Better In-Home Care is happy to help.  Contact us online or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls or Hayden areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest River areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Wallace or Pinehurst areas.

 

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High Tech Home Care Options

Posted on: January 9th, 2012 by aagingbetter

One of the biggest benefits of aging in place in this day and age is that technology can make nearly anything possible!  There are numerous high-tech tools to make the home safer for aging seniors, which, in turn, brings peace of mind to their friends and family.  The following are a few devices to consider for loved ones receiving in-home care:

  • Webcams: Installing webcams throughout the home allows both family members and caregivers the ability to virtually check in on the senior at any time.  Webcams also allow family members who live far way to video chat with their loved ones.  While the issue of privacy is of concern, this technology has proven to be a life-saver in some instances where the loved one has fallen and been unable to get up.  Where webcams have  been installed in instances like this, families have been very happy with the results.

  • Sensor Monitors: In conjunction with webcams, sensors can be placed throughout the home to track movement.  These are particularly handy for seniors with ambulation or wandering issues, such as someone with mild Alzheimers or dementia that is not advanced enough to require institutionalization.   Most sensor systems connect to a TV or computer monitor and an internet connection so that the company monitoring the sensors can detect anything out of the ordinary and contact family members or a response team quickly.

  • Medical Alert Pendants: These handy devices are becoming increasingly popular with seniors and disabled individuals as this technology continues to be updated to increase their effectiveness.  They are worn by the subscriber and a button is pressed in the event of a fall or other emergency, connecting the senior to 911 or another emergency response service.  The cost is usually around $25-$30 per month for subscribers.  Kootenai Medical offers this technology via its Lifeline Program in Coeur d’Alene.  A call to this office can get an appointment for a technician to come out to the subscriber’s home and set up the call pendant.  It does require a land line (phone), however.   Currently, this technology does not work with cell phones.

  • Automatic Pill Reminders/Dispensers: These are perfect for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.  An alarm in the pill dispenser goes off, alerting the senior to take his or her medication by voice message, and dispenses the correct dosage.  If the senior misses a dose, an alert is sent to the caregiver after 90 minutes.

Technology is increasing the level of independence that seniors can experience in their homes.  For more information on these home care options, contact AAging Better In-Home Care online or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls or Hayden areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest River areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Wallace or Pinehurst areas.

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Options for In-Home Care

Posted on: January 2nd, 2012 by aagingbetter

The choices for in-home care are virtually limitless; there are several different models and payment options depending on the type and amount of care an individual or a loved one requires.  So how do you know what kind of care is right for you or your relative?  Some of the main models of in-home care providers include:

  • Private Duty Care: Private duty services are typically “non-medical” services that include housekeeping, transportation, laundry, meal preparation, shopping for groceries or personal care services, such as assistance with dressing, bathing or grooming.  It can also include care of those with dementia, like Alzheimer’s, or respite care for those family caregivers that need a little time away from caring for their loved one.  Private duty care services are usually paid for directly by the client or his or her family.  Some services may be covered by long-term care insurance, workers’ compensation, or armed services (Veterans Affairs) funding. An important thing to note, however, is that private duty services are not covered by Medicare.  Private duty may be covered by Idaho’s Medicaid Program but the individual would have to contact the Eligibility Department in Coeur d’Alene to determine if they qualified for Medicaid services.  It’s usually a fairly long process to become approved.

  • Home Health Care: Home health care is skilled nursing care that is usually required in the home for treatment of an illness or injury – wound care, injections, diabetes or blood pressure monitoring, and other treatments that require nursing skills.  Home health care can also provide physical, respiratory, occupational or speech therapy.  Unlike private duty care, many home health services are covered under Medicare when it’s in conjunction with a discharge from the hospital, providing that specific conditions are met.
  • Geriatric Care Management: Geriatric care managers handle the details of an individual’s life or estate that fall outside the realms of direct care providers, such as financial and estate management. They can also coordinate care for an individual, mediate family communications, or assist with moving to another living arrangement or closing up of a household. Geriatric care management is traditionally an out-of-pocket expense.

  • Hospice Care: Hospice care is a special type of in-home care, designed to provide comfort and support for patients who are nearing the end of a terminal illness. Hospice provides a range of services, including nursing, mental health, and spiritual advising. Coverage for hospice care is typically offered by most private insurance providers and through Medicare.

For more information about the different models of in-home care and what type of care is right for you, contact AAging Better In-Home Care online or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls or Hayden areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest River areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Wallace or Pinehurst areas.

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How to Better Communicate with Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on: November 28th, 2011 by aagingbetter

Alzheimer’s disease makes many aspects of life difficult for patients and their family members, but it can make communication a particular point of frustration.  Dementia and Alzheimer’s can make expressing thoughts clearly very difficult, and can cause difficulty understanding others as well. To help communicate clearly with a person with Alzheimer’s, try the following tips:

  • Speak in a “kind” voice – slow, low, and smiling.
  • Always make sure to speak clearly.
  • Orient yourself to the person and call him or her by name.
  • Always approach the person from the front so as not to surprise him or her.
  • Ask one question at a time.
  • Use short words and sentences.
  • Avoid quizzing the person or asking “Do you remember” questions.
  • Focus on the feelings, not the facts. Often, the emotions being expressed are more important.

Know that Alzheimer’s disease can often make communication a negative experience, particularly when the individual cannot recall people or events that were once important.  Remember that this is a side effect of the disease and not something that should be taken personally.  Having worked with many Alzheimer’s patients throughout the years, the caregivers at AAging Better In-Home Care are happy to help you learn better ways to communicate with your loved ones. To learn more about our home care services for Alzheimer’s disease or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact us or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Hayden Lake, Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest Lake areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Pinehurst or Wallace areas.

What is Sundown Syndrome & How Do You Cope with It?

Posted on: November 21st, 2011 by aagingbetter

Alzheimer’s disease brings on many troubling scenarios that patients and families must learn to deal with.  One such scenario is called sundown syndrome, or episodes of confusion, anxiety or agitation that often occur in the evening hours, lasting from a few hours to throughout the night.

The cause of sundown syndrome is unknown, but there are some contributing factors that experts have noticed, including:

  • Physical or mental exhaustion
  • An upset internal clock – mix-up between day and night
  • Medication that causes agitation or confusion
  • Inability to separate dreams from reality when sleeping
  • Less need for sleep

Sundown syndrome is a taxing ailment both for the patient and his or her caregivers. However, there are several ways in which to help a loved one experiencing sundown syndrome cope, including:

  • Help the person relax in the evening; try decaffeinated tea or warm milk.
  • Close the blinds or drapes so that the person does not notice it becoming dark outside.
  • Distract the person with activities he or she enjoys.
  • Discourage afternoon napping and plan activities instead so that the person will rest well at night.

Sundown syndrome typically peaks in the mid-stages of the disease and diminishes as it progresses. In the meantime, caregivers should ensure that the home is secure and safe, particularly if the senior tends to wander.

If you are caring for a senior loved one who exhibits signs of sundown syndrome, contact AAging Better In-Home Care’s experienced caregivers for help. To learn more about our home care services for Alzheimer’s disease or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact us or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Hayden Lake, Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest Lake areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Pinehurst or Wallace areas.

 

The More You Know: Alzheimer’s Awareness

Posted on: November 14th, 2011 by aagingbetter

Forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, and the older we get, the worse it seems to get. Mild forgetfulness is not something to be overly concerned with usually, but when memory loss begins to interfere with daily activities, it may be time to see a doctor.

Knowing more about the disease and its warning signs can help family members and caregivers know when they are dealing with normal memory loss and when it might be something more serious.  Alzheimer’s disease typically begins after 60, and the risk increases with age. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are ten warning signs for Alzheimer’s:

Memory loss that disrupts daily life

  1. Trouble in planning or solving problems
  2. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  3. Time and place confusion
  4. Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
  5. New problems with speaking or writing
  6. Misplacing things, inability to retrace steps
  7. Decreased or poor judgment
  8. Withdrawal from work or social activities
  9. Changes in mood or personality

If you notice a senior loved one who exhibits any of these warning signs, notify his or her doctor.  AAging Better In-Home Care’s experienced caregivers and staff have worked with many Alzheimer’s patients and their families.  To learn more about our home care services for Alzheimer’s disease or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact us or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Hayden Lake, Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest Lake areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Pinehurst or Wallace areas.

Q&A: Top Questions about Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on: November 7th, 2011 by aagingbetter

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis brings with it dozens of questions for the person receiving the diagnosis, for family members and caregivers.  Having answers to your questions can help put you at ease and allow you to focus on coping.  Here are some frequently asked questions about Alzheimer’s disease, along with their answers.

What are the causes/risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s?

  • Research is still being conducted on the causes of Alzheimer’s disease, and as of now, there is no definitive cause or pattern of inheritance.  Studies show that chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, diet, exercise, and social engagement may play a role in whether or not a person develops the disease.
  • Familial or early-onset Alzheimer’s is caused by an inherited gene mutation, but only manifests in less than 5% of patients, developing between the ages of 30 to 60.
  • The late-onset form of the disease typically occurs after age 60.  Studies show that increased age is a risk factor for this form of Alzheimer’s.

What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?

  • Dementia is a symptom. Someone can have dementia without it being Alzheimer’s-related, such as dementia associated with an injury, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, etc.
  • Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia.  Some causes of dementia may be reversible, but most are degenerative that will worsen over time.

What changes happen in the brain of a person with Alzheimer’s disease?

  • Alzheimer’s patients develop amyloid plaques, or abnormal clumps and tangled bundles of fibers called neurofibrillary tangles in their brains.
  • As these clumps and tangles multiply, healthy nerve cells die, which causes the brain tissue to shrink.

What treatments are available for Alzheimer’s disease?

  • There is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, but there are medications that can help control the symptoms of depression, aggression, or hallucinations.  It is very important to discuss the use of medications with your doctor, as some Alzheimer’s medicines can react negatively with one another.
  • Many symptoms are caused by non-medical triggers, such as environment, changes in routine, or from frustrations with the inability to communicate, and can often be managed without the use of medication.

At AAging Better In-Home Care, we have worked with many Alzheimer’s patients, and are happy to answer any questions you may have about how to care for a loved one who has been diagnosed with the disease.  To learn more about our home care services for Alzheimer’s disease or to schedule a free in-home assessment, contact us or call us at (208) 777-0308 in the Hayden Lake, Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls areas, (208) 263-7889 in the Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry or Priest Lake areas, or (208) 784-1505 in the Kellogg, Pinehurst or Wallace areas.

Raise Your Cholesterol, Lower Your Risk of Alzheimer’s?

Posted on: February 7th, 2011 by aagingbetter

A new study just reported in the Archives of Neurology found that having higher HDL or good cholesterol was associated with a decreased risk of both probable and possible Alzheimer’s disease. Both high cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease are highly frequent in western societies, with a staggering 1 out of 5 Americans reporting high bad cholesterol levels and 1 out of 8 persons over 65 having Alzheimer’s. Although doctors don’t agree on just how much a healthy heart can protect against Alzheimer’s disease, most do believe there is a connection between the two.

The belief is that excess bad cholesterol in the blood leads to increased bad cholesterol in the brain, and that increased production of cholesterol in the brain promotes production of plaques, which cause Alzheimer’s.

Guidelines for cholesterol recommend that men raise HDL levels that are under 40 mg/dL and that women increase HDL numbers under 50 mg/dL. An HDL of 60 mg/dL or higher with a total cholesterol level of under 200 is optimal.

AAging Better In-Home Care has caregivers who are well trained in caring for both someone trying to lower his or her cholesterol level and those who have Alzheimers disease.  Besides traditional home care services, we can prepare tasty and nutritious meals, assist with exercise and activity, provide a watchful eye for loved ones that might wander and provide medication reminders.

Contact AAging Better at 866.464.2344 for a free in-home assessment and discover whether home care is appropriate for your situation and how we might help provide you with full-time care or respite care, if needed.

Start the new year by preparing for future needs of the frail elderly

Posted on: December 21st, 2010 by admin

The U.S. Census Bureau projections indicate that between the years 2010 and 2030 the elderly population in the United States will rise from 13 percent of the total population to almost 20 percent with over 71 million elderly. Centenarians alone, the fastest-growing age group, are set to double within 10 years and top one million by 2050. With these figures in mind, proactive planning for the frail elderly becomes essential in order to ensure adequate care in future years.

AAging Better, serving all of north Idaho, is encouraging seniors and their families to take a fresh look at their circumstances this new year. We believe it is important for people to be armed with information on potential needs for the frail elderly and are assisting the public in crafting their own “care plans” in an effort to prevent the conflicts between independence and safety in the years to come.

North Idaho has a number of agencies and associations to help assist families in  preparing for the future.  The RSVP program (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) is a local source of help and assistance when help is needed immediately.  That number is (208) 664-3114.  The Alzheimers Association number is (208) 666-2996.  This Association provides classes, information and help in dealing with loved ones with Alzheimers.   The Senior Companion Program and Caregiver Respite Program are two other good sources for family members caring for frail seniors or a disabled child.  These programs each provide information or assistance in the home that can allow a caregiver to run an errand or get out of the house for a short period of time.  Call (208) 664-8544 for further information.  Finally, if  a senior or disabled individual qualifies the Meals on Wheels program can provide up to two hot meals each day to home-bound individuals.  Their number is (208) 686-4628.  Take a moment to call these numbers as you begin your process of finding out what’s available in our communities to help our frail seniors, disabled, or those with Alzheimers and developing dementias.

Also, contact AAging Better for help in assessing a frail senior’s situation. There doesn’t have to be a conflict between safety and independence. With a little planning, the frail elderly can safely remain in the comfort of home—and maintain a feeling of independence.

 
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