June 22, 2021 by
For decades, experts have been exploring the development of Alzheimer’s through one basic model, even though not all Alzheimer’s diagnoses present with the same symptoms and progression. (more…)
Author: Dean Bellefeuille
Many Seniors Lack These Basic Assistive Devices That Promote Senior Independence
June 14, 2021 by
Think of the many tools you use each day – your phone, hairbrush, toothbrush – simple things, but ones you can’t imagine living without. For millions of older adults, there are basic assistive devices available that could mean the difference between living at home and facing a move to assisted living. Yet nearly half of seniors living at home aren’t utilizing these helpful tools – even though costs are minimal.
A recent National Health and Aging Trends Study assessed the ability of older adults to perform tasks such as rising unassisted from a seated position and walking, and found that thousands of the participants could benefit from assistive devices.
Not only that, but the risk of senior falls from the lack of simple assistive devices is increased, leading to hospitalizations, serious injury, and disability that could easily have been prevented. In fact, once these devices were made available to seniors, according to research, disability rates for seniors dropped by 50%, along with a decrease in pain levels and an increase in the ability to perform activities of daily living independently.
Dr. Kenneth Lam, author of the study, explained, “It’s a technical problem which, unlike so much of aging, is actually solvable. In the hospital, I can order an M.R.I. and charge the system thousands of dollars. But down the road, that won’t help patients not fall. What happens when they get home?”
A program at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore is looking to change this by introducing inexpensive assistive tools to seniors. Through several in-home visits by an occupational therapist, nurse, and repair specialist, needs are identified and resolved. That could mean installing grab bars in the bathroom, removing fall hazards, or adding a shower chair or raised toilet seat. Small changes such as these can make an enormous difference in a senior’s ability to safely and independently manage activities of daily living.
With At Home Independent Living, the leading provider of Syracuse elderly care and care in surrounding areas, we’re pleased to offer in-home evaluations to recommend changes to the home environment that enhance safety and help seniors remain independent and in control. We can also help enhance senior’s safety, comfort, and independence through services such as:
- Offering accompanied transportation for errands, medical appointments, and fun outings
- Preparing nutritious meals and ensuring sufficient hydration for seniors
- Providing assistance as needed with personal care needs for safe bathing/showering, getting dressed, etc.
- Maintaining a clean and organized home
- And more
Contact us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to schedule your assessment today or to learn more about our senior care in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding areas.
Ease Family Caregiving Conflicts with Elder Care Mediation
June 4, 2021 by
When it comes to working together to ensure the needs of your aging parents are met, even the closest of siblings can find themselves in conflict. Emotions and stress levels are, naturally, running high. Add to that your past family dynamics and history, which tend to resurface during challenging times, and it’s easy to see how difficult this stage in life can be for each of you. (more…)
Learn the Signs of Dysphagia and How to Help
May 24, 2021 by
On a hot summer day, there is nothing more satisfying than a tall, cold drink, but for someone displaying signs of dysphagia, this simple pleasure can be dangerous. Dysphagia – or trouble with swallowing – affects millions of older adults, because of weakened mouth and/or throat muscles. Cancer, Alzheimer’s, MS and stroke are all causes as well.
Understanding The Different Possibilities for Dementia Progression Stages
May 13, 2021 by
One of the first things many people want to know when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia is what the dementia progression stages will look like. We know that the unmistakable sign of dementia is the increasing decline in cognitive abilities as well as the skills needed to take care of everyday life. However, each individual progresses through these changes at a different pace. There are a variety of factors that may affect the rate of decline, such as:
Medication-Related Elderly Falls: Research Shows Nearly All Seniors Are at Risk
May 6, 2021 by
We have long known that there are particular medications that increase the chance of elderly falls. Two decades ago, slightly more than half of seniors were impacted by that risk; yet today, that number has increased dramatically – to an astounding 94% of seniors who are now at risk of falling because of medication side effects. Not only that but, deaths from such falls are occurring at more than twice the earlier rate.
Overcome One of the Top Caregiving Challenges: Caregiver Dread
April 22, 2021 by
What are your first thoughts when you wake up each morning? Are you looking forward to what your day holds, or would you prefer to crawl back under the covers and remain there? If you are experiencing more dread than delight as you think through your caregiving responsibilities for the day, you’re not the only one. In fact, one of the leading caregiving challenges is caregiver dread.
If Lucidity Returns when Caring for Someone with Dementia: Here’s What It Means
April 14, 2021 by
Even when memory loss and confusion escalate through the advancement of Alzheimer’s, there is a remarkable reprieve that often occurs. Previously termed “terminal lucidity,” it’s more frequently now known as “paradoxical lucidity.” It signifies a sudden, short-term regaining of clarity to a nearly pre-dementia cognitive state. During this time, the effects can vary from nonverbal but emotional connections to noteworthy cognitive recovery.
Caring for Aging Parents Post-Pandemic: Why We Can Expect a Healthier Work-Life Balance
April 8, 2021 by
If there is one positive after-effect associated with the pandemic, it’s the attention generated for the plight of family caregivers. Balancing work and home life is without question an incredible challenge for anyone caring for aging parents. As Lindsay Jurist-Rosner, CEO of Wellthy, explains, “Caregiving went from a silent struggle to being in the spotlight overnight.”
Healthy Activities: The Benefits of Gardening for Seniors
March 18, 2021 by
The cool dampness of fresh soil. The warmth of the sun. The happy trills of songbirds. Gardening has the ability to engage so many of our senses, and provides many great benefits to older adults. Regardless of ability level or any space restrictions, there’s always a way to help older adults experience the pleasures of planting indoors or outdoors, watching new growth emerge, and harvesting. As the leading provider of elder care in Syracuse, NY and surrounding areas, we’re happy to share the benefits of gardening for seniors.