Tips To Reduce The Risk of Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease.

As with most diseases, two factors that most affect the likelihood of Alzheimer's & dementia are diet and activity. This shouldn't be a surprise. After all, your body is a result of what you do or don’t do to it. The following are tips for helping your body prevent dementia...

  1.  Keep your mind fit just like you do with your body. Challenge yourself mentally; learn a new language, learn to play a musical instrument, do brain games. Exercise your brain!
  2.  Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. Studies indicate that consumption of fruit and veggie juices was linked to lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease.
  3. Eat berries! The antioxidants provide protection against the formation of free radicals and amyloid plaques in the brain.
  4.  Consume plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. They are found in fish such as salmon and mackerel. Omega-3s have been shown to help reduce Alzheimer’s progress.
  5.  Eat foods high in folic acid or use supplements that supply this.
  6.  Grape skins contain molecules able to protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
  7.  A Mediterranean-style diet has been linked to lower incidences of Alzheimer’s disease.
  8.  Keep your blood pressure under control.
  9.  Keep up an active social life and a strong social network of friends.  Get out and socialize!

Recent studies indicate that coconut oil may have positive effects on delaying Alzheimer’s symptoms.  Even if coconut oil can’t prevent this disease, it will help your skin stay smooth and is a healthy source of fat!  For help with daily activities such as cooking, bathing and dressing, consider hiring an in home care service. The quick video below can help you to better understand and deal with Alzheimer's disease...


Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Thanksgiving Thoughts

While everyone is sitting around the dinner table at the Thanksgiving family gathering, a likely topic of conversation to come up is the care needs of your of someone in your family.  Particularly, a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, and the recurring thoughts will focus around how he/she is doing, how might they need more help with, how they don't seem to be improving, what was the latest "episode," etc.  Do you recognize this conversation?

 Beyond casual conversation, consider taking advantage of a free care consultation, provided by our office.  Doing this with other family members is always a plus, as it allows everyone to ask questions, or hear other ideas that they may not have considered.

We will gladly talk with all of you about your loved one's care needs, and help you determine a care plan that works best for your entire family.  We may even be able to assist you with alternatives that you may not have considered, and options that can cut the long term care costs dramatically.  Making Life Easier is what we do, not just for the care recipient, but for all of the family.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.

Breast Cancer Awareness

 October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and today, October 27 is Breast Cancer Awareness Day. 

What can you do to reduce your risk of Breast Cancer?
 Let's start with diet.   A diet rich in fruits and vegetables hasn't been consistently shown to offer protection from breast cancer. Also, a low-fat diet appears to offer only a slight reduction in the risk of breast cancer. However, eating a healthy diet may decrease your risk of other types of cancer, as well as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. A healthy diet can also help you maintain a healthy weight — a key factor in breast cancer prevention.
 Limit alcohol.  The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol — including beer, wine or liquor — limit yourself to no more than one drink a day.
  Breast-feed. Breast-feeding may play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect.
 Don't smoke. Accumulating evidence suggests a link between smoking and breast cancer risk. In addition, not smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.
  Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Combination hormone therapy for more than three to five years increases the risk of breast cancer. If you're taking hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms, ask your doctor about other options.
  Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation, which have been linked with breast cancer risk. Reduce your exposure by having such tests only when absolutely necessary.
  Regular checkups and consulting with your doctor should be on the top of everyone's list.  As always, ask your doctor before making any health related changes.
Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Glen Campbell's Final Recording

As a follow up to our post regarding the documentary on Glen Campbell's struggle with Alzheimer's disease, his final studio recording titled "I'm Not Gonna Miss You" has been released.  Campbell hasn't performed in public in allmost 2 years, and this is billed as a farewell to his music career.

The melody is somber and contemplative, but the lyrics show his ability to find irony in his disease. The result is a beautiful combination of sadness and joy, which ends much too quickly.



Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Alzheimer's & The Rhinestone Cowboy

In June of 2011, country music start Glen Campbell learned that he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease.  After the diagnosis, Glen and his manager decided to produce 'The Goodbye Tour', which would be his final pubic performing tour.  The tour and events surrounding his disease were filmed, and have been turned into a documentary on Alzheimer's Disease. 

The documentary, titled "I'll Be Me" is scheduled to be released on October 24, 2014. The producers describe the film as a show that Glen would want to watch. Despite the serious topic, the goal was to create a positive message, particularly for those that deal with Alzheimer's in their own lives.  A video trailer from the show is available from youtube.com...

As is inevitable with Alzheimer's disease, it's progress has forced Glen to now reside in a memory care facility. Based on the reviews and write-ups on the documentary, this will probably be worth watching.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Raisins, A Good Health Snack!!

Research from the University of Kentucky has determined that snacking on raisins can decrease high blood pressure and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.  The tests took place over a 12 week period with 46 men and women in the test group.  During the test, they snacked on either processed snack foods or raisins.  At the beginning and end of each month, the researchers tested for blood glucose, diabetic risk markers, and blood pressure.  The subjects that snacked on raisins were found to have reduced blood pressure while improving blood glucose and diabetic risk factors.  The conclusions from this were that "regular consumption of raisins may reduce glycemia and cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure".

Generally, any snack of fruits, nuts, or vegetable are much better for you than any potato chip or other type of processed food.  So grab some raisins, enjoy a snack, and reap the rewards!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Vitamin D3 can reduce antibiotic needs in Seniors

 Research from the Queensland Institute in Australia has found that a supplement of vitamin D3 appears to reduce the incidence of infection among seniors.  For this test, over 600 subjects between

the ages of 60 and 84 were split into 3 groups.  Over the period of a year they were given either 1000 or 2000 units of vitamin D3 daily.  The third group was given a placebo.
  The results showed that those receiving 2000 units of D3 per day were 28 percent less likely to require antibiotic prescriptions than those taking the placebo.  Recipients over the age of 70 were 47 percent less likely to require an antibiotic versus those getting the placebo.
  While the results are preliminary, the institute feels the findings are significant enough to warrant an extended 5 year test to solidify it's findings.  As with any diet, medical, or physical changes, be sure to consult with your doctor first.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Turning an Alzheimer's Diagnosis Into Something Positive

 In a previous post, we share the story of how Katie Couric was moving through life as a "sandwich generation" child, at times feeling pushed to the point of being overwhelmed with the responsibility of providing care.  A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be one of the most disheartening experiences a person may ever experience, and can lead to the same conclusions.  The journey of dealing with the disease, and of caregivers seeing a loved one progress with Alzheimer's can often lead to feeling as if one is completely isolated and alone.  It's very important to remember that there are others dealing with the same issues, and in some cases turning the experience into a positive event.
 Samuel L. Jackson recently shared his experiences with his family's Alzheimer's struggles, and how he became involved in the search for a cure.  You can read the complete article at http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/samuel-l-jackson-opens-up-725419

  He also partnered with Maria Shriver to create a quick video sharing personal tales and how it has inspired them to become involved with charities focused on this disease.  The video is well made and worth the few minutes to watch, especially if you're struggling with the same challenges...


  While you may not be inspired to become as involved as these recognizable names, it's helpful to know that there are others that are involved in making a difference where they can.  If you need help dealing with issues brought on by family demands or chronic illness, or know someone that does, call our office.  We work with families & local organizations that can provide guidance, advice, or just offer to listen.  Don't try to go it alone.

We are not alone...

 No, this is not about extraterrestrials.  We're referring to the inevitable cycle of going from "being the

child and depending on parents" to "being the child that is caring for parents, and family, and career...".  It usually happens slowly, so slowly that most people are unaware until they are nearly pushed to a breaking point.  A light usually goes on at that point, and a decision is made to make changes.  The biggest problem here is that most people have waited far to long, and in an effort to set things right quickly, they make poor choices.
  Well known journalist Katie Couric recently began posting some articles about this transition.  She does a great job of explaining her family's situation, their challenges, thoughts, and plans.  One of the best quotes she makes is "Whatever we decide, we'll do it together, and I take some comfort in knowing we're not the only baby boomers dealing with these questions. There are no easy answers."
  You can read the entire article here.  It's an easy read and gets quickly to the point.  If you're feeling this pinch, or know someone that is, give us a call.  We work with families on a daily basis to find a solution that will work best for them.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

 

The Pitfalls of Contracting Home Care

 Recently, lawsuits were launched against a large In Home Care company regarding their business practices.  In a nutshell, the company acted like a 'Placement Agency', locating workers that would then act as caregivers in private homes.  The workers would be paid directly by the client, and the Home Care Agency would bill the client for a finder's fee.  It's also important to note that the agency would not be licensed as a Home Care provider.

  In this scenario, the worker is actually a contractor working directly for the client, and not the Home Care company.  This means that the client in essence has hired their own employee, and is responsible for all taxes, social security, insurance, etc., that must be filed with state and federal government.  Even if the worker claims "1099 Contractor" status, all payments must be reported by the client, and the contract employee is liable for the payments.  The Home Care company has no obligation to perform any of these duties.  The lawsuits are claiming fraud, neglect, misrepresentation, and concealment of information to name a few.

  Probably the biggest draw to this sort of agreement is that the hourly costs are lower, typically by about %20 when compare to a licensed Home Care Agency.  However, when the liability of maintaining, reporting, and accurately managing the previously mentioned employee relationship is factored in, those savings are quickly lost.  The reality is that liability & costs are easily higher.

  At Home Helpers, all of our staff are employees of the agency.  They have undergone background checks, receive recurrent training, and are covered by our insurance policies.  As employees, all payroll requirements are covered by us.  When shopping for care services, these are critical items to keep in mind!  Be sure to look at the bigger picture!!!  Visit us online at www.lknHomeCare.com to learn more about us and our services.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Purchasing a Medical Alert Unit - Final Chapter

In the final installment of our series on Med Alert Systems, we'd like to offer a few quick tips on some of the items/features that are often overlooked in these systems.  Remember, the ultimate goal is to make an intelligent purchase!

One question we hear frequently is what is the difference in a "911 Dialer" and a full Medical Alert systems.  "911 Dialers" are typically available at drug stores, department stores, etc. They advertise a "One time fee", which is the purchase price, and no monthly fees.  While these may look similar to a Medical Alert unit, they differ in that they have one function: Dial 911.  On the surface, this may seem to meet the basic requirement.  However, there are drawbacks to this type of device, not the least of which is the ability to test it on a regular basis without contacting the 911 emergency center. If it's not tested regularly, how can you confirm it's function???  In addition, this type of unit does not provide health information to the responders, nor does it allow for "lesser needs" calls, such as having a neighbor or family member be contacted for some reason.

Before making your purchase, you should ask where the monitoring center is located. During a crisis clear communication is crucial, and adding an off-shore accent to deal with can slow things down.  Finally, on-going support & service are important.  When you're depending on a device for emergency events, it's comforting to know that, if there is a problem, it's easily resolved.  Local service is invaluable in this regard.

All of the units carried by our agency are installed & supported locally, our monitoring is provided by a CSAA 5-star U.S. center, and we're close by.  Feel free to view the most popular units we have on our web site.  If you have any questions,  give us a call.  We'll be glad to assist you in any way we can!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Purchasing A Medical Alert System - Part 3

 We continue our multi-part series on Med Alert systems with explanations of options and features that one should understand before making a purchase.  As you'll recall, we previously mentioned that

our standard system has a button which is worn by the user, has a range of about 300' on average, and will contact our monitoring center when the button is pressed.  But what other options are available? In Part-3 we'll highlight a few of the most popular:

1) Critical Information Forwarding.  All of our Direct Link products have the option of forwarding critical information to the emergency responders. For instance, if someone is on a complex drug regimen, or under treatment for an illness, our units can provide that information to the responding agency.  In addition, if there is a hidden key outside of the home that will allow easy entry, the responders will be informed of where to find it!  This is a great feature when you consider that when emergency responders arrive at a locked home, they will typically break a window or door to gain access. Knowing that a key is available to enter the dwelling is invaluable. BTW, this is a free option on all Home Helpers Direct Link products!

2) Fall sensing. This should be a consideration for any person that is a fall hazard. In this case, the button has a small sensor in it that will detect when a client falls.  It will then automatically activate an emergency alert request without additional intervention from the user.  Fall sensing will typically add a small cost to the monthly rate, but for someone who is unsteady, it is well worth the expense.

3) 2-Way Pendants.  With a standard alert system, after sending an alert, the user will speak to the call center through the base unit. If they are too far from the base to converse, the next action would typically be to dispatch emergency responders. 2-Way Pendants allow the user to speak through the pendant! Also, these units typically have more range than a standard pendant, continuing to function up to about 600 feet from the base.  This is a good choice for someone who likes to be out of the home, but is still in the neighborhood.

4) Mobile Units. A mobile medical alert uses a cellular network to communicate with the monitoring center, and incorporates a built in GPS receiver. This allows the user to travel anywhere there is cellular coverage, and if help is needed, the GPS will identify where they are located. Assistance can then be dispatched to that location!

With the exception of #1 above, adding options tends to increase cost. If the option is not really needed or provides some value, then the buyer should consider saving that money! Besides, upgrades can be made at any time.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Purchasing A Medical Alert System - Part 2

In Part 1 of our series on Emergency Alert Units Explained (also know as life lines, life alerts, etc.), we covered the basics of what the units

consist of, and what each piece does. In this part, we'll cover a few of the variations to the basics. 

In most cases, when a user presses the 'Help' button on an alert unit, the device calls a monitoring office that will proceed to determine what the true need is. This historically took place over a telephone line.  However, with the popularity of cell phones, not all users still have a traditional home phone.  Alternatives are 1) Voice Over IP (VOIP) which travels over an internet connection. Providers such as Vonage, AT&T U-verse, Time-Warner Cable, Magic-Jack, or Comcast are examples of VOIP phone providers. For an alert unit to function properly with these requires a special digital unit. The second option is 2) a Cell Based unit which will make the call to the monitoring office over a cell network. By the way, the Cell Based unit operates completely independently of any cell phones or plans that you may have.

It's important that you choose properly here!  If a regular phone line is available, then a standard phone emergency alert unit will provide the best reliability at the lowest cost.  VOIP compatible devices will be slightly more expensive, and a Cell Based unit typically has the highest cost.  However, if there's no home phone of any type, the cell based unit is obviously a good choice. Make certain that there is good cell coverage for the carrier that supports the unit where it will be used.  Some rural areas that have sparse cell coverage can be problematic.

Prior to installing a cell unit for any client, our office always performs a search to determine how close the nearest cell tower is to the planned location of use.  This assures our customers that a good signal is available and they will receive reliable service.  We also test all of our units with the clients during the install to confirm proper operation, regardless of the type, and instruct them to repeat this test on a monthly basis.  This will let them confirm ongoing proper operation so that in the event of an emergency, they can be confident that the unit will work!

In Part 3 of this series, we'll discuss features & options that are available with all of our Direct Link emergency alert devices.  Many of these features set us apart from all of our competitors! In the meantime, you can view our most popular units by clicking here.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Purchasing a Medical Alert System - Part 1

No one wants to lose their independence. The freedom to live comfortably where one chooses is

something that no one wants to forfeit.  However, it can be difficult to maintain independence and retain the peace-of-mind of knowing you're safe. So how do we remain independent and protected at the same time?

The best solution to this problem is a Telephone Medical Alert unit from Home Helpers. This is a device that allows people to live independently in their own homes while still remaining protected from the various hazards that can arise when living alone or when living with various mental or physical impairments. Choosing the right medical alert system can be a difficult and stressful decision. What features do you really need? What should I look for? How does it work?  What is the cost?  It can be daunting to get started, but don’t worry, we can guide you to the best decision.

First, the basics.  A medical alert system consists of two fundamental components.  They are 1) A pendant which is worn around the neck or wrist, and 2) A base unit that recieves the signal from the pendant when the pendant's button is pressed.  When the pendant is activated, the base unit will contact a monitoring location, and trained personnel will speak with you to determine if you have an emergency.  Since the pendant can be activated accidentally, this allows the emergency personnel an oppotunity to determine if there is a real problem. Also, we encourage our clients to press the button on a regular basis so that they are familiar with how it works, and to confirm that it is operating normally.

There are lots of variations to the above mentioned fundamentals, and despite what some vendors advertise, one size does not fit all!  We'll cover some of those differences in our next posting.  In the meantime, if you would like to know more about these products, feel free to give us a call.  We'll be glad to explain more and assist you.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Care Payment Options

Paying for care can be challenging, especially if no previous plans were put into place.  However, more and more, options are coming available that can help ease this challenge.  Prior to making any decision, it's best to know what choices are available!  Below are a few of the solutions we frequently see which are gathering a good deal of attention...

1) Life insurance buyout programs.  This option involves the sale of a life insurance policy to a third party for a cash settlement.  The money recieved can be utilized in any way one may need.  For instance: in home care, assisted living, nursing home, medical bills, etc.  There are several ways to leverage a buyout program, but the bottom line before taking this option is that one should compare the value of the payment versus the policy value, as well as opposed to other programs.
2)  Life insurance conversion.  Some insurance companies are now offering to convert a life policy into a long term care policy.  This would allow payments to be made from the policy that would be based on the policy value.  Not all companies offer this, and one should consider the trade off in policy value versus the cash payout.
3)  VA benefits.  If the person needing care is a military veteran, it pays to research if they would qualify for any sort of pension benefit from the Veterans Administration.  Since this can be a complex task due to the various offerings and qualification requirements, it's highly recommended that you seek guidance before submitting any sort of application.  There are numerous ways to do this, none of them requiring any up front fees. 
4)  Reverse mortgage.  The Reverse Mortgage can be an excellent option when properly executed.  As with VA benefits, it can be tricky and you will want to be comfortable that it's properly executed.  Again, seek consultation.

The above options are all good possibilities when properly executed.  The important thing to remember is to compare them all, and determine what the best selection would be that will maximize available finances for the longest period of time.  Our office works with clients on these challenges all the time, and we have partnered with resources that can help make the selection as simple as possible.  Feel free to call us to learn more at 704-909-7958.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation?

Have you ever heard of the term "Sandwich Generation"?  This generation is the group that is

working to raise a family while worrying about the well being of an older relative.  If you fall into this category, we have a few tips to help deal with the pressure you feel as you're trying to maintain your lifestyle:

1) Don't try to do everything.  There's only so much of you to go around! For instance, it's not uncommon for parents to compromise the relationship with children when caring for a parent.  If you're doing this, you're over-committing.
2) Don't be afraid to ask for help.  While most people feel as if they are failing or letting someone down when asking for assistance, the reality is that you're taking moves that will improve the situation for everyone. Arranging for meals to be delivered to elder relatives, seeking out homemakers or home care services are examples of available options.
3) Research both Child & Adult Care options.  There is usually a wide variety of choices available in your community.  Ask friends and co-workers for referrals, and don't forget to inquire with local churches.
4) Talk to your employer about flex time or alternative work arrangements. Don't shy away from this option. Employers value good employees, and making a change to retain those workers is not uncommon.

If you need help getting started with these options, give us a call.  We'll be happy help with information that can assist you with your care-giving challenges.  You can also visit our website for additional online information. Simply click here to view our resources page.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Seniors & Driving

About a year ago, we listed a post that featured a great video on Seniors & Driving.  The video was entertaining, and provided some very succinct information on the topic.  If you missed it, you can watch it again by clicking here.  It's well worth viewing! With this in mind we'd like to offer some warning signs that you notice that might require you to take action on this problem:
 
    Having more than one at-fault accident in a year.
    Unexplained scratches or dents.
    Tickets for unsafe driving.
    Difficulty reading road signs.
    Getting lost or easily confused.
    Medical treatment for the eyes or ears.

Often, family members will observe an elderly relative's driving ability decline without knowing what to do.  It's a sensitive subject to approach!  Sometimes you may be able to get a family doctor, counselor, social worker, etc., to issue a "no more driving" prescription.  Hearing the news from a professional can soften the blow and make following the advice easier.  Waiting until an accident happens is the worst approach, so be proactive try to lead the way.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Family Care Fair, May 3rd, Huntersville NC

Join Home Helpers at the ninth annual Family Care Fair from 10am to 2pm – a day of free fun for the

entire family.  Located at Novant Health Huntersville (formerly Visit Home Helpers at Novant Health Family Care FairPresbyterian Hospital) on Gilead Rd. It’s just one more way we’re with you on every step of your health care journey. Stop by our booth and say HI!  We hope to see you there.

Activities include:
- Free health screenings
- Exercise demonstrations
- Health and safety information
- Moon bounce
- Healthy refreshments
- Giveaways (first come, first served–so join us early)

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Testing For Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease

A form of dementia, early-onset Alzheimer’s disease typically affects people in their 50s, though it is seen in persons as young as their 30s. Unlike Alzheimer’s that affects those over age 65,

early-onset AD has been linked to inherited genetics, and frequently runs in families.  Recent studies on this disease have shown promise in helping detect it's condition and finding new treatments. The following are 5 recent breakthroughs:

1. Blood Test Detects Early-Onset Alzheimer’s - Researchers at Georgetown University and the University of Rochester have developed a blood test that indicates risks for Alzheimer’s. The test examines the amounts of certain fats in the bloodstream. Based on clinical trials, the test shows with ~90% accuracy of the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s within the next three years. It should be cautioned that this test requires further work before it can be applied outside of clinical trials.

2. Eye Test Could Diagnose Alzheimer’s Years Before Symptoms Occur - Sapphire II, an eye exam technology, could diagnose Alzheimer’s in a matter of minutes. Developed by Cognoptix, Sapphire II is a laser-based reading device and consumable ophthalmic ointment.  Cognoptix is seeking FDA approval to use the test to help physicians diagnose suspected cases of Alzheimer’s.

3. SAGE, A Self-Test for Alzheimer’s - A 12-question test, the Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination (SAGE) may help spot cognitive decline in as little as 15 minutes. Ohio State University developed the test and administered it to over 1,000 research participants. Results showed that 28% of test takers demonstrated symptoms of cognitive decline, which correlated to more detailed cognitive testing. Ideally, a person whose score signaled potential cognitive decline would go their doctor sooner for a diagnosis. The test should be viewed as a baseline for cognitive function and is not a substitute for a medical exam, but is a usefull diagnosis tool.

4. An App for Detecting Alzheimer’s - In this day of "An App For Everything", there is Neuroracer.  Developed by Alkili Interactive Labs, it may help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s. Alkili conducted a study with Neuroracer that showed it improved brain activity and multitasking skills for older players. The hope is that the app could become a benchmark for other testing and pave the way for more mobile video games that could serve as medical tools.

5. Peanut Butter Exam May Diagnose Alzheimer’s - Looking to link sense of smell to cognitive decline, researchers from the University of Florida have discovered that patients diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer's diagnosis will struggle to smell a spoonful of peanut butter. Because sense of smell often fails early on for Alzheimer’s patients, researchers believe this tests fo this nature could become a valuable tool in early detection.

Experts warn that simple tests for diagnosing such a complex disease are not always accurate.  The ongoing research that produces these is encouraging though. As with any health question, always consult with your physician with any health concerns.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

The time to Downsize...

Downsizing is an inevitable part of moving to a new residence: taking old clothes to Goodwill, throwing away that leaf blower that hasn’t worked in five years, and getting rid of all the things you’ve accumulated that your family no longer needs. But, downsizing can be particularly wrenching for the elderly, who may find it overwhelming to think about letting go of the items they’ve gathered over a lifetime. If a loved one is faced with a move to assisted living, where they may have less storage space, that clutter in the closet may turn into a stubborn roadblock – and it's a common excuse to resist moving.  Often the senior will feel like they are giving up cherished memories, especially when faced with leaving a long-term home on top of it all.

It's not uncommon to wonder how you can ask Mom and Dad to give up so many mementos they obviously cherish, and risk upsetting them? Indeed, the the entire process can be daunting.

Enlisting friends and family to help a loved one clear their clutter can be an enormous help. Having others around to share memories can make the process less painful.  Sometimes seniors are daunted by the size of the task, or feel physically incapable.  Sometimes the situation becomes so dire that professional help is warranted. Senior move managers can help with the process and are experts at smoothing the transition into senior living.

A trusted advisor on senior living issues can go a long way to helping seniors and their families figure out what to throw away, what to sell, the value, and what to bring with them into assisted living. They can also help you  address fears and anxieties about assisted living, as well as the advantages of moving.  The result can be a hassle-free transition – and a much lighter load.  If you find yourself needing assistance with this sort of challenge, give us a call.  We've been helping families with this & other challenges for over a decade.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

5 Myths You've Probably Heard About Nutrition...

  We often hear comments about eating less as we age, and many of those statements are unfounded.  With that in mind, we'd like to offer 5 myths regarding nutrition and seniors.  See if you recognize any of these...

#1: It’s Natural For Older People to Lose Their Appetite
  It’s true that seniors need slightly less food than younger adults because of metabolic changes.  But an outright loss of appetite is not normal, and could be a sign of serious health problem. Simple causes such as decreased sense of taste or dental problems can lead to eating less and make it appear that appetite has decreased when it hasn’t.  Any sudden weight loss should be seen as a red-flag and warrants a doctors visit.

#2: Being Moderately Overweight is a Sign of Robust Health
  While some studies suggest that being moderately overweight contributes to longer lifespans, other studies dispute this. The very overweight, or obese, will experience lifespans on average 10 years less than person of normal weight.

#3: It Doesn’t Matter Whether an Older Person Eats Alone or With Others
  People who live alone and who are left to their own devices in the area of food preparation often have bad outcomes. Eating almost every meal in isolation can also exacerbate loneliness, stress and anxiety. In other words, constantly eating alone can put seniors at risk. Mealtime should be a social activity!

#4: Seniors With a Weak Appetite can Safely Skip Meals
  There are multiple drawbacks to skipping meals. It can cause our body to crave food to such an extent that at the next meal we overindulge in the extreme, which is not healthy. On the other hand, and somewhat paradoxically, skipping meals can further decrease one's appetite. Another major risk is that it can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels, which has numerous negative impacts.  Skipping meals is not a good thing.

#5: Seniors Have Slower Metabolisms and Need Fewer Nutrients
  While a senior may need slightly fewer calories and food-bulk than a younger adult, they need just as many nutrients, if not more. One reason is that as we age, our ability to absorb nutrients is decreased. Specifically, physicians recommenced that older adult increase their intake of calcium,  as well as vitamins D and B12.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

The 'What if's' of an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

  Recently we came across a conversation between a husband and wife that was recorded after the husband had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. It is both heartbreaking and heartwarming to hear them talk about their experience and hear the wife’s commitment to care for her husband, just as they had discussed years before.  It's well worth listening to, and can be heard in it's entirety here.

Whenever you or a loved one receives a diagnosis like this, it’s important to have a plan in place. Thinking through the “what-ifs” and taking steps to plan ahead will save you a lot of stress down the road.  If you have any questions about planning for care services, feel free to call Home Helpers at 704-909-7958.   We can help you to plan for your care needs as well as connect you with local resources that may be of assistance.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

After the hospital visit...

  Routines are nice because you tend know what to expect. If you’ve ever been unexpectedly

hospitalized, you know that life can quickly become anything but routine.  Upon being discharged, people often find themselves facing a world of uncertainty. In an attempt to reduce medical costs, the federal government has placed increased emphasis on care transitions, a process that can quickly overwhelm many patients and their families.

The goal of care transitions is to achieve a continuity of care where patients successfully move from one setting to another with proper information, and managing the ongoing care process.  One aspect of success specific to the Affordable Care Act (i.e., ObamaCare), is a reduction of hospital re-admissions within 30 days of discharge.  Excessive re-admissions can cause hospital reimbursement rates to be cut.

Discharge is often an overwhelming experience.  Patients and family members are often inundated with information, and instructions can be confusing. Knowing this, we’d like to share some suggestions to assist in successfully transferring from the hospital to home:

Anticipate Care Needs –  Meet with your healthcare team before discharge to discuss your specific situation and ask questions to get an idea of what you and your family might expect over the next 30 to 60 days (e.g. medication regimens, medical needs, therapy, need to monitor vital signs/blood sugar, activity and diet restrictions, help with transfers and transportation).

Request Information – Take time to learn from your healthcare team about your condition and care needs. Don’t expect to remember everything the first time through. In addition to information gathered during conversations, ask for written education materials you can read and refer to over time. If needed, ask for demonstrations of specific tasks.

Focus on Safety –  Make sure you know what is needed and that you are equipped and able to do what is necessary (e.g., medication management, disease self-management, arranging follow-up appointments, helping with personal care and activities of daily living). Also, become familiar with signs and symptoms that might suggest a need for urgent attention or a call to 911.

Clarify – Ask questions. IE: “What if I cannot get in to see my Doctor within the timeframe indicated?” and “Is the hospital sending my medical records to my physician?”

Seek Support – The time and effort required to deliver the needed level of care and support can be daunting. That’s where we come in.  Home Helpers recognizes that care demands are often more than family can handle alone while maintaining other responsibilities.  A free consultation can be arranged to take place at a hospital before discharge.  We can arrange for transportation, home care services, follow up schedules, etc.

At Home Helpers, we structure our services around the needs, goals, preferences, and values of those we serve. We consider it a privilege to assist in care transitions and provide home care services needed to Make Life Easier.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Senior Independence

February marks National Senior Independence Month. Take a moment to review the living arrangements of someone you know, and ask yourself: What holds them  back? What could make daily life easier? Small changes can make a huge difference, and we've got some suggestions...

Home Safety Tips
     Brighten Up—Rooms should be well lit, so make lighting replacements where needed. Night-lights should be installed throughout the house—especially in dark corners and along staircases.  This can help prevent trips and falls over unseen objects.
     Clear Clutter—Keep floors and walkways clear of unnecessary items.  Simply rearranging the furniture can be valuable for those who may have balance or vision problems.  Make sure pathways are clear enough to move freely without fear of harm.
    Get a Grip—Install grab bars and handrails in the restrooms near the shower, bathtub and toilet. Using non-slip mats and placing double-sided tape under rugs can also help minimize slips.
    Open Access—Everything should be easily accessible, including the refrigerator, cabinets, drawers, doors and shelving. Also, place items on the lower levels of shelves for easier reach.

Stay Active to Avoid Accidents
  Did you know that daily exercise could help reduce the risk of falls? In fact, being inactive is one of the major risk factors of falls in older adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  With your physician’s approval, take part in any activity that promotes moving.  As always, walking is one of the easiest exercises you can do, and it comes with many benefits, including improved balance, strength and endurance.  Plus, there's no need to go anywhere to do it!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

American Heart Month is upon us

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including stroke and heart attack, are our nation’s No. 1 killer! Since 1963, February has been celebrated as American Heart Month in an effort to urge Americans to join the fight against these diseases.

According to the American Heart Association’s Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics 2010 Update, nearly 2,300 Americans die of CVD each day, and about 18% of those deaths were individuals younger than 65. More than 81 million American adults (33%) have one or more types of CVD. The estimated direct and indirect cost of CVD for 2010 is $503.2 billion.

While some risk factors are genetic, there are several that are controllable:
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• Poor nutrition/diet
• Smoking
• Stress

One can reduce these risks by maintaining an active lifestyle, controlling cholesterol, eating a well-balanced diet that is low in calories and full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing blood sugar and quitting smoking.

  Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+! 

Assisting elderly parents or friends can be challenging. As a person ages, their bodies may fall victim

to a number of health problems, which can be difficult to deal with.  An elderly person may become upset over small things that they can no longer cope with alone.  In order to deal with these changes, you need to learn to properly communicate.  Here are 5 simple suggestions that can help:
1. Show respect. Just because someone needs assistance every day with common tasks does not mean they are a child. Ask for their advice as you proceed. Being heard helps them to feel they haven’t lost control.
2. Always be calm, even if the other person is saying something ugly. Research shows that an elderly person may feel they can say anything they want without retribution because they are old. Don’t fall into that trap and start an argument.
3. Set rules and boundaries that understood by both sides. As a caregiver, you are giving up your time to help out. The care recipient may not fully grasp the amount of help you are providing. Let them know when requests aren’t reasonable, and offer other solutions. Do not be afraid to say no.
4. Truly listen to the person you’re helping. Always give your complete attention, even when it’s difficult.
5. Provide a loving environment. Acknowledge when they do something that’s intended to help you, no matter how small. More than anything, show gratitude. This will provide a sense of knowing that they’re useful and appreciated.

While these tips sound simple, they can be very hard to carry though.  If you find yourself in a situation where you feel angry or frustrated, take a deep breath and walk away, particularly if dementia is involved. More than anything, do not hold a grudge. If you feel you can’t manage the situation, give us a call.  We’ll be glad to help.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

We get regular calls from families that are suddenly faced with the reality of planning care for another family member.  This type of thing seems to happen suddenly, and the callers are a

bit shell shocked, not knowing what services are available, how they may differ, or where to turn for advice.  Most people just don’t think about this until they have no choice, and then they’re scrambling to figure something out!  With that in mind, we’ve pulled together a few online tools that will help you navigate this task.  Even if you don’t have an immediate need, it’s worth a look to familiarize oneself with available options.

1. Cost of Care Calculator.  Are you aware of the costs of care in your area, and that they can vary from stated to state? This online calculator quickly lists the averages where you may live, or any area in the US!
2. Moving A Senior.  It’s common to move a parent or aging loved one as their needs increase. The National Associatin of Senior Move Managers can be a tremendous asset if you’re facing this challenge.
3. Financial Help for Veterans.  The Veterans Aid & Attendance pension is a little known benefit available to our veterans.  Home Helpers regularly assists our veterans with this, and you can find more information here.
4. Medicare Hospital Comparisons.  Medicare.gov will help you find the closest hospitals that process medicare, and list patient reviews!
5. Nursing Home Comparisons & Reviews.  Choosing a nursing facility can be confusing.  Get listings of what’s available nearby or in other areas, as well as ratings & reviews.

If you have a question or need that isn’t covered by any of the above, feel free to call our office.  We’ll be more than happy to help answer your questions and guide you to a solution.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Know how to recognize a stroke

Most people are unaware of the signs that someone is experiencing a stroke.  Knowing what to recognize, and then taking action can save a life.  Here are 5 quick clues:

1.  Weakness or numbness in the face or limbs.
2.  Dimming, or loss of vision, particularly if it occurs in one eye.    
3. Slurring speech, difficulty speaking or understanding speech.    
4. Severe headache with no known cause.    
5. Unexplained dizziness, especially if accompanied by any of the above.

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, you can usually confirm it by asking them to

1. Smile
2. Raise both arms
3. Repeat a simple sentence

If they have trouble with this, call 911 or transport them to the nearest emergency room immediately.  Time is critical with a stroke, and the more quickly the sufferer gets medical attention, the more likely they are to recover.  DON’T WAIT TO SEE IF THEY IMPROVE, ACT!  If it turns out to be something other than a stroke, great!  But if it is a stroke, being quick can make a world of difference.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Music hath charms...

Did you know that there are many advantages to listening to music, aside from the inherent pleasure? 

That’s right, listening to music has health benefits that go beyond the Home Helpers Senior Careenjoyment we may feel.  For example, some physical advantages we derive are:

    Reduced pain levels
    Lower blood pressure
    Positively affect movement
    Calming feeling
    Improved range of motion

How is this possible you may ask?  Let’s take motion range as an example.  Music makes people want to dance & move.  Repetitive movements helps to keep joints limber and stretch muscles.  Also, did you know that dancing to music is the only thing that stimulates every part of the brain?  In many cases, individuals suffering Alzheimer’s disease will become completely nonverbal, but can still sing songs from the past such as Happy Birthday, Amazing Grace, The Star Spangled Banner or Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree and so on.

Music is unique to each person and is a part of our personal history and culture. It is a means of self-expression and helps define who we are. With music we are able to communicate and connect on common ground without using words.  And, it has health benefits to boot!

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!