December 17, 2024 by
Anyone who’s cared for an aging parent can tell you how overwhelming it can be. But meeting the care needs of both parents at the same time, balancing between two unique sets of needs, schedules, and personalities? If you’re in this role, you may feel like you’re holding it all together by a thread, and there are some important considerations to keep in mind to protect your health and ensure you’re there for both of them in the long run. (more…)
December 11, 2024 by
The way someone with Alzheimer’s experiences the world isn’t always rooted in our current reality. One of the most heart-wrenching yet profound experiences you may encounter is something called time-shifting in Alzheimer’s. This isn’t just forgetting what day it is; it’s a complete immersion in a different era of their life. For instance, you may be sitting together at the dinner table, and suddenly, the person believes they’re a young adult waiting for their parents to come home. It’s disorienting for them and can be equally puzzling for you. But understanding time-shifting can help make those moments more manageable—and even meaningful. (more…)
November 26, 2024 by
“Laura, it’s so good to see you!”
What a sweet greeting this would be…if you actually were Laura. Increasingly, Mom is referring to you as her sister, forgetting that you’re her daughter. Coping with dementia-related memory loss, especially as the disease starts to steal memories and someone you love no longer recognizes your face, can be extremely hard. The sadness is overwhelming, the frustration undeniable, and the questions keep piling up: Why is this happening? What do I do now? (more…)
November 19, 2024 by
It’s here! The holiday season is in full swing, filled with laughter, decorations, and of course, family gatherings. But let’s be real: it can also be packed with stress, tempting treats, and a hectic pace that leaves everyone a little frazzled. If you’re caring for an older loved one, you know how quickly the holidays can turn from “merry and bright” to “chaotic and overwhelming.” And if hypertension is a factor, it can be even more of a challenge. Between extra salty holiday meals, busy schedules, and unexpected stressors, holiday hypertension management can be daunting. But never fear; with some thoughtful planning and small adjustments, you can help keep their health in check while still enjoying all the festive cheer. (more…)
November 11, 2024 by
You’ve just settled Mom into bed after a long day. You’re exhausted—physically and emotionally—and there’s still a list of tasks waiting for your attention. Maybe it was the struggle with getting her to take her medication today that wore you out. Or perhaps the call from a family member who offered well-meaning but impractical advice is what caused that extra level of stress. Caring for an older loved one can be one of the hardest roles you’ll face in your lifetime. Prioritizing self-care for caregivers and building emotional resilience is crucial, and it’s the foundation that will help you keep going when the days are tough. (more…)
October 14, 2024 by
It’s a typical morning, and you’re helping Dad get ready for the day. You’ve picked out several options of outfits for him to choose from, but he balks and refuses to wear any of them. In fact, he’s been wearing the same outfit for several days now, despite your gentle requests each day to change. Sound familiar? Many family caregivers face this daily struggle, as dementia can make even simple tasks like changing clothes feel overwhelming. The good news is that with a few helpful strategies and plenty of patience, you can overcome dementia dressing challenges and make the process smoother. (more…)
October 7, 2024 by
With the holidays approaching, you might be thinking about festive meals and family gatherings centered around favorite foods and traditions. But what about the rest of the year? Is everyone in your family—particularly older loved ones—getting proper nutrition on a regular basis? While holiday feasts might be an exception, many older adults quietly struggle with senior malnutrition for a variety of reasons. The first step to helping older loved ones stay nourished and healthy year-round is learning about the challenges they may be facing. (more…)
September 23, 2024 by
Watching a loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD can be tough. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do everything you can to help. What you might not realize is that there are other COPD-related health complications, known as comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed in tandem with COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these potential comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to receive screenings and treatment as needed. (more…)
September 18, 2024 by
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…)
August 22, 2024 by
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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).