November 12, 2018 by
Falls among the elderly are all too common and can have dire consequences. Taking preventative measures is key, such as assessing the home for fall risks like throw rugs and other tripping hazards, insufficient lighting, and a lack of appropriate grab bars and railings. But there’s another tactic being recommended now: creating a fall plan of care, which, when implemented properly, is being shown to reduce fall-related hospital visits by as much as 40%. (more…)
November 6, 2018 by
While we may envision a Norman Rockwell-worthy Thanksgiving celebration, with the whole family enjoying quality time together and Grandma’s traditional feast, the reality for many families includes something unexpected: a trip to the hospital. In fact, statistics show that E/R visits for the elderly jump an astounding 10% – 20% during the holidays. (more…)
August 8, 2018 by
At Home Independent Living, providers of elder care Syracuse, NY families trust, understands that Incontinence, or problems with bladder control, is an uncomfortable and sensitive matter, specifically for seniors. It can lead to a wide variety of dilemmas, from skin sores to reduced socialization for people who are hesitant to leave home in case of an “accident.” Yet while urinary incontinence can affect upwards of 25 million individuals in the U.S. alone, the affliction seldom gets the attention and discussion it deserves. As a result of the lack of communication and information about senior incontinence, many older adults and caregivers feel as though there isn’t anything that can be done to bring relief. (more…)
May 16, 2018 by
Telephone cons targeted at older adults aren’t anything new, with an astounding $36 billion lost every year to financial abuse. And the most recent senior fraud scheme circulating is hard for most older adults to detect until it is too late. Center for Elder Law and Justice attorney Nicole K. Parshall explains, “There is always a new variation of a phone scam. Scammers are very good at developing new tactics in order to engage with specific types of individuals.” (more…)
May 11, 2018 by
Very early on in life, we learn the story of George Washington’s misadventure with the cherry tree and his bold admittance to his parents, “I cannot tell a lie; I chopped down the cherry tree!” Honesty is integrated within our character, and in many cases telling a tiny white lie can wrack us with guilt. But could it actually be beneficial to fib when we want to communicate and provide dementia support to a loved one with Alzheimer’s? (more…)
May 7, 2018 by
The most commendable and admirable choice adult children can make is to open up their home to their aging parents. Our parents raised and took care of us when we needed assistance, so it seems like a no-brainer to reciprocate when it becomes unsafe for Mom or Dad to live alone. But there are a number of considerations to think about before becoming a family caregiver in your own home. At Home Independent Living outlines some of the key questions to think about: (more…)
March 21, 2018 by
For older adults, maintaining independence is a vital aspect of living life on their terms. While the physical limitations of age can make the ability to maintain independence seem challenging, in today’s digital era, it’s actually easier than ever. Technology has changed the ways in which we communicate and take care of the daily tasks of living. Additionally, technology helps seniors by allowing for innovation in home care for those who ordinarily might not have been able to manage life on their own. With the multitude of technology, apps and interactive devices available today, maintaining independence is easier than ever, allowing for more enhanced levels of connection, comfort and engagement than ever before. (more…)
March 8, 2018 by
Dorothy had it right when she said, “There’s no place like home,” and 90 percent of seniors agree, according to AARP. The vast majority of older adults prefer to age in place in their own homes as opposed to moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility. But as increased care is needed, how can senior independence be maintained at home? (more…)
February 12, 2018 by
It’s a sensitive topic to go over with aging parents, but one which has to be resolved sooner rather than later: managing senior finances. Many adult children are reluctant to ask about their parents’ financial matters until there is a desperate need, but initiating the discussion ahead of the need provides ample opportunity to ensure everything is in order. (more…)
February 8, 2018 by
It is always best to tell the truth, right? Yet there are times when some truths are better left unsaid, or at least worded more positively, particularly when communicating with senior parents. While we may have the very best of intentions in attempting to help older adults navigate life, we can help alleviate problems with hurt feelings in our senior parents by rethinking statements such as the following: (more…)