At Home Independent Living Blog

Downsizing Together: Tips to Declutter Your Parents’ Home

 September 18, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A man knows how important it is to declutter your parents’ home with their help, so he works with his aging mom to pack items into boxes.

You’ve finally decided to bite the bullet and declutter your parents’ home. As you begin sorting through the attic, you come across a box of old family photos, a stack of forgotten love letters, a collection of vintage toys. Each item holds a story, a piece of history, and a flood of memories. (more…)

If Mom Has Dementia, Does That Mean You’ll Get It Too?

 September 10, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman whose mom has dementia gives her a hug while staring thoughtfully into the distance.

If your mom has dementia and is struggling to remember your name or losing track of her daily routine, an unsettling thought might creep into your mind: “Will this happen to me, too?” It’s natural to struggle with the fear of facing the same challenges as a loved one with dementia. We invite you to take a deep breath and consider the following facts, causes, and risk factors about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to help empower you to navigate these worries and find some peace of mind. (more…)

The Latest Innovative Caregiving Solutions You’ll Want to Explore

 August 22, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman holds a credit card and laptop as she prepares to purchase innovative caregiving solutions.

Every day as a caregiver brings new challenges and opportunities for making life easier and more comfortable for the person you love. The good news is that innovative caregiving solutions are constantly emerging, designed to help you manage your responsibilities more efficiently and make life more comfortable for your family member. Check out some of our top recommendations and see if they might be worth exploring.

Adaptive Clothing

Adaptive clothing has revolutionized a person’s ability to maintain independence. These items include easy-access closures like Velcro, magnetic snaps, and side zippers. Now, however, many types of adaptive wear are not just functional but also stylish and dignified. You’ll find everything from adaptive sleepwear to formal wear, making it easier for the person you love to look and feel their best.

Smart Home Technology

Technology is stepping up to ease the burden of caregiving. Smart home devices like voice-activated assistants (think Amazon Echo or Google Home), smart lights, and automated medication dispensers can significantly enhance the safety and independence of an older loved one. These devices can help remind them to take their medication, turn off the stove, or even make emergency calls—all while giving you peace of mind.

Health Monitoring Devices

Wearable health monitoring devices have become a game-changer. Items like smartwatches and health trackers can monitor vital signs, track physical activity, and even detect falls. These devices allow you to keep a close eye on a loved one’s health metrics in real-time, ensuring that any potential issues are promptly addressed.

Online Support and Resources

The internet is brimming with resources specifically for family caregivers. You can easily find everything from forums for emotional support to detailed guides on specific medical conditions. Many online stores now provide a vast array of caregiving products, often with customer reviews to help you make informed decisions. Subscription services for essentials like incontinence supplies or dietary supplements can also save you time and hassle.

Innovative Mobility Solutions

One of the most significant challenges older adults face is maintaining mobility. Fortunately, the market is flooded with advanced mobility aids designed to enhance independence and ease of movement. From lightweight, foldable wheelchairs and electric scooters to sophisticated stair lifts and portable ramps, there’s an option to fit every need and lifestyle. These devices are designed to be user-friendly and adaptable, often featuring ergonomic designs that reduce strain and increase comfort. By integrating these mobility solutions into daily life, you can help an older loved one maintain their autonomy, continue to enjoy their favorite activities, and navigate their home safely.

Our care experts always keep an eye on the latest innovative caregiver solutions and resources to make your life as a family caregiver easier. We’re here to answer any questions you have. With a complimentary in-home consultation, we can share more about how we can help someone you love in Syracuse, Clay, Camillus, and throughout Central New York. Call us any time at (315) 579-HOME (4663).

How to Alleviate the Burden of Caregiving—For Your Health and Theirs

 August 13, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman feeling the burden of caregiving gazes wistfully out the window while holding a cup of coffee.

Caring for an older loved one is an act of love and devotion, but it can also feel like a never-ending marathon. The emotional highs of shared smiles and laughter can quickly be overshadowed by the physical and mental exhaustion that comes with the burden of caregiving. This challenging journey can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and isolated, a state known as caregiver burden.

Understanding Caregiver Burden

Caregiver burden encompasses the emotional, physical, and financial toll that caregiving can take. Emotionally, the constant worry and stress about your family member’s well-being can lead to anxiety and depression. Physically, caregiving tasks such as lifting, bathing, and moving the person can cause significant strain and fatigue. Financially, the costs of medical supplies, home modifications, and potentially reduced work hours can lead to financial stress and uncertainty.

Social isolation is another key aspect of caregiver burden. The demands of caregiving can drastically reduce your time for social activities and connections, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This lack of personal time can also mean sacrificing hobbies and other activities that previously brought joy and relaxation.

Steps to Alleviate the Burden of Caregiving

Recognizing the signs of caregiver burden is the first step towards managing it. Here are some practical steps you can take to bring you peace:

  1. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family members and friends. Even small tasks can make a big difference. It’s also helpful to look into a caregiver support group, either in person or online, for emotional support and tried-and-true advice from others in similar situations.
  2. Utilize Respite Care: Respite care services can provide regular, temporary relief, allowing you to take a break and recharge. At Home Independent Living is pleased to offer respite care services that allow you to take the time away you need while knowing your family member is thriving under the care of a trained professional.
  3. Take Care of Your Health: Make sure you’re scheduling routine check-ups and talking with a mental health professional as well if needed, to ensure all of your health needs are fully met. Regular exercise and a healthy diet also need to be a top priority to ensure you have the energy and strength needed in your caregiving role.
  4. Use Resources and Tools: Utilize tools like the Caregiver Burden Scale to identify areas where you may need help. At Home Independent Living also offers a wealth of educational resources to help guide and support you as you care for the person you love.

With At Home Independent Living, we offer a full range of customized aging care services that provide a healthy life balance for family caregivers while enriching the lives of older loved ones. Some of the many ways we can help include:

  • Friendly companionship for engaging activities and conversations
  • Personal hygiene care and support
  • Transportation and accompaniment to appointments and fun outings
  • Light housekeeping and meal prep
  • And much more

Give us a call any time at (315) 579-HOME (4663) for more helpful tips and an in-home care partner you can rely on to walk beside you when caring for someone you love. We’re pleased to serve Syracuse, Fayetteville, Salina, and throughout Central New York.

Dementia-Related Hiding: Why It Happens and What to Do

 August 6, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

An older man experiencing issues with dementia-related hiding peers into a cabinet.

We’ve all experienced that moment of sheer panic when we can’t find our keys or wallet. It’s frustrating and disorienting. Now, picture this happening multiple times a day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a recurring part of life for those with dementia. Dementia-related hiding is a common and unsettling behavior when the person intentionally hides objects, typically in places you’re not likely to look.

Why would someone with dementia hide things? There are several key issues that may be at play.

  • Memory loss and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and memory loss that accompany dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer remember where they placed their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a safe spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help alleviate their anxiety about losing things.
  • Paranoia and suspicion: Dementia often brings about an increased sense of paranoia and suspicion. The person may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might take their possessions. This heightened sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
  • Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they belong. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the overwhelming task of keeping track of their environment.
  • Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding can be a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to engage in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a sense of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and offer a feeling of accomplishment.

Understanding the reasons behind dementia-related hiding can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience and improve how you care for someone with dementia. Try:

  • Creating a safe and structured environment: Ensure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in the arrangement of furniture and personal items can reduce confusion and make it easier for them to find what they need.
  • Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label drawers, cupboards, and storage areas. This can serve as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can reduce the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
  • Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can provide a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.
  • Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are appropriate for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.

We’re also here to partner with you to alleviate the underlying reasoning behind hiding items and other challenging effects of dementia. Contact us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to learn more about our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas in Central New York.

The Many Positives of Getting Older

 July 23, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

Three senior women laugh as they focus on the positives of getting older.

As a family caregiver for an aging parent, you become their biggest cheerleader and most trusted confidant. It should never be just about managing medications or medical appointments; you’re enriching their life, making each day more meaningful. It’s amazing what a difference focusing on the positives of getting older can have on a person’s wellbeing, and in your role as family caregiver, you can make a profound impact on the life of the person you love.

These ideas can help you promote a positive outlook and an environment focused on mental and emotional wellness:

  • Health and Wellness: Routine doctors’ visits, a good diet, and tending to chronic conditions are major aspects of care, but equal attention must be given to mental health. Encouraging open conversations about feelings and any anxieties can help identify issues before they become serious. It’s also beneficial to integrate holistic practices such as meditation or mindfulness exercises, which have been shown to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
  • Stimulating Activities: Adding old passions and new interests into a senior’s daily routine can be great for maintaining a positive outlook on aging. Activities like gardening, art classes, or book clubs are fun, keep the mind active and motor skills sharp, and help facilitate social interactions. You can also consider technology-driven activities such as virtual reality experiences that simulate travel or historical events, which can be both entertaining and educational. And don’t forget physical activities such as tai chi or gentle yoga to improve both physical and emotional wellbeing.
  • Community and Connections: Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional health. Facilitating participation in community events or arranging for regular visits with friends and family can significantly enhance their quality of life. Technology can be of great use here, bridging the distance through video calls or social media, which allows for maintaining relationships despite physical distance. Creating opportunities for older adults to meet new people, such as through local clubs or community centers, can also be beneficial. These connections can help prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common in older adults.
  • Professional Support: Even the most dedicated family caregivers may not always be able to provide the full scope of care an older loved one needs. A skilled caregiver offers not only friendly companionship but also personalized support that fosters independence within the comforting environment of their own home. Professional caregivers can be instrumental in implementing therapeutic activities, preparing healthy meals, and providing transportation to appointments. They also offer valuable respite for family caregivers, ensuring that the care provided is both consistent and comprehensive.

Your commitment to promoting the positives of getting older, along with our customized home care services, can be life-changing. Contact us online or at (315) 579-HOME (4663), and let’s work together to make life more fulfilling and enjoyable for someone you love. Our services are available throughout Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas.

Encouraging Confidence and Independence in Seniors With Dementia

 July 17, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman dries dishes to practice independence in seniors with dementia.

Every victory – from tying their own shoes to preparing themselves lunch – is a feat for someone with dementia. These moments boost their confidence while reinforcing their sense of identity in the midst of the challenges they’re facing. One crucial aspect of caring for a loved one with dementia is to nurture these opportunities, preserving the dignity and joy of independent living. Here are a few tried-and-true strategies to help promote independence in seniors with dementia.

Create a Supportive Environment

Make sure the person’s home is safe and free from hazards. Minor adaptations, such as installing motion-sensor lights for better visibility at night and securing loose rugs, can protect against falls and boost confidence. Introduce tools that simplify daily tasks—like ergonomic kitchenware that’s easier to hold—to help them feel capable and in control. Adding clear labels on cabinets and drawers can also guide them more easily through their daily routine, reducing confusion and promoting independence.

Break Down Tasks

Lead into daily activities with creativity and patience. For example, if getting dressed becomes a challenge, try laying the clothes out in an order that makes it easier to navigate for the older adult. Opt for clothing with elastic waistbands or magnetic buttons to minimize frustration. Every small step they can do on their own is an encouragement to their self-esteem. Providing visual aids or step-by-step instructions for more complex tasks can also help them maintain autonomy.

Support Physical Activity

Healthy living involves prioritizing physical activity. Motivate the person to engage in doctor-approved exercises that are safe and enjoyable, like short walks in the park or light stretching at home. Adapt the intensity according to their ability, focusing on enjoyment and the feeling of accomplishment. Encourage regular schedules to help them build a routine that includes physical activity to boost both their mobility and mood.

Take Advantage of Helpful Technology

Take advantage of the many technological advancements that help support independence in seniors with dementia. Consider devices like GPS trackers and simplified phone applications that help manage daily life without overwhelming them. These tools offer peace of mind to both of you, ensuring safety while respecting their need for independence. Smart home devices that can control lighting, temperature, and security with simple commands can also enhance their living environment and provide additional comfort.

Lead With Empathy

Empathy is the name of the game in dementia care. Validate their feelings and perspectives, even when they differ from your own. Engaging in their reality helps reduce their stress and makes them feel valued and understood, reinforcing their sense of self-worth. Regular, open conversations can help build trust and make them more comfortable in expressing their needs and emotions.

Fostering independence for someone with dementia enriches their lives. Celebrate each victory, no matter how small it may seem. It can truly make a world of difference!

Our dementia care experts, serving Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas, have additional tips to offer along with skilled hands-on care to help the person you love live their best life. Contact us online or at (315) 579-HOME (4663).

5 Tips to Help Support Senior Independence in Aging Parents

 July 9, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman who knows how important it is to support senior independence hugs her mom as they sit on the sofa together.

Mom has a green thumb that’s second to none, and she wants to redesign the family garden for the first time in years. She may not move as fast as she once did, but that hasn’t slowed down her love for gardening. This is a perfect opportunity for you to step in—not to take over, but to facilitate her vision, perhaps by providing tools that make gardening easier for her to handle. It’s so important to empower your parents to pursue their interests and maintain their independence with a bit of thoughtful support as needed. Here’s how you can work together with your parents to support senior independence and help them continue to live life their way:

  • Daily Living Activities: If daily responsibilities that you once took for granted become more difficult for your parents, collaborate with them to establish more creative, accommodating solutions that prioritize their independence. This might include introducing handy tech tools that simplify cooking and cleaning, or adapting their home to make it more ergonomic. These changes help maintain their self-sufficiency and make everyday life a little easier. Also, consider regular assessments of their living space to further enhance convenience and accessibility, so they can continue to navigate their home safely and comfortably throughout aging.
  • Health Management: Be an active participant in your parents’ health management. Attend doctors’ appointments with them, not just for support, but to stay fully informed. Together, you can track treatments and medications, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident with their healthcare decisions. Engaging actively in these discussions also helps you advocate for their needs and assures that their treatment plans are fully understood and properly managed.
  • Emotional Support: Nourish your relationship with your parents by joining in activities that support your connection and spark joy between you all. Share stories, engage in hobbies together, or explore new adventures. This kind of support is vital for their emotional health and strengthens the bonds within your family. Frequent communication can help alleviate feelings of loneliness or isolation they might experience, ensuring they always feel loved and connected.
  • Financial Oversight: Support your parents in managing their finances by talking over their goals and preferences, and help them learn how to use tools that make budgeting and bill payments simpler. This helps protect their assets while empowering them with the knowledge and resources they need to maintain control over their financial health. Regular reviews of their financial situation can also provide peace of mind for both you and your parents, confirming that their finances are in order and well-managed.
  • Home Safety: Enhance their living environment with modifications that promote safety without sacrificing style or comfort. Simple adjustments like improved lighting and accessible storage can greatly increase their confidence and independence at home, making it a safer and more comfortable place for them to live.

At the end of the day, it’s about supporting senior independence and helping aging parents continue to lead vibrant, autonomous lives. It’s about helping them make the most of this enriching phase of life, with just the right amount of assistance that is never overbearing.

We’re here to support you and your aging parents as well with highly personalized in-home care services in Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas. Contact us online or at (315) 579-HOME (4663) for a free consultation to learn more.

Are Aging Loved Ones Prepared for a Power Outage?

 June 18, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

Emergency supplies including a flashlight, batteries, and radio sit at the ready on a table for someone who is prepared for a power outage.

Summer storms mean more power outages. For most, they’re just a minor inconvenience. But for older adults, it can cause major concerns. The best way to handle unexpected power outages is through advance planning to ensure older loved ones are prepared and equipped to ride out the storm, giving you the peace of mind you need. (more…)

Build Your Game Plan—Create a Care Plan for Seniors!

 June 12, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

A woman creating a care plan for seniors shows an older couple something on her computer.

We get it. Exploring home care options for Mom and Dad is a daunting experience. There are so many options to consider, and so many new and unfamiliar terms to understand. Take, for instance, the care plan. It may seem like just another piece of jargon in a sea of confusing terms, but creating a care plan for seniors is actually one of the most important aspects of home care services. Here’s why: (more…)

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