Outbursts From Dementia Sufferers

We frequently see families caring for a loved one that is suffering from dementia and struggling with outbursts of anger. This is particularly true of those who are in the more advanced stages. Knowing what triggered the behavior, and how to react in the moment of a verbal outburst can help you cope. Finding the trigger to the outburst is not always easy. Remember that someone with advanced stages of dementia may be unable to recognize or communicate their needs easily. Also, they may have difficulty understanding what behavior is acceptable.

Most often the cause of the outburst will fall into one of three categories:
1. Physical:  Issues such as discomfort, pain, illness, improper medication or difficulty hearing. Consult with a physician and ask if they can help determine which of these may be ruled out.
2. Social:  Unfamiliar surroundings, boredom, loneliness, crowds, or embarrassment from having someone repeatedly pointing out they you have already answered a question.  Though not all of these scenarios can be controlled, if you understand the issue you can address the behavior in a more knowledgeable way.
3. Psychological: Challenges such as memory loss, fear, anxiety, or losing touch with reality.  All of these can lead to misunderstandings, misconceptions and difficulty communicating. Again, knowing the cause can help you take command and alleviate the problem.

What should you do when your loved one has an outburst? First, take a deep breath and remain calm. Raising one's voice or arguing will only elevate the situation.  Always reply in a calm, reassuring voice, maintain eye contact, and do not show any anger or alarm. Acknowledging the sufferer's feelings will tend to diffuse any anger they may be feeling. Finally, redirection to something that the dementia sufferer enjoys is very effective.  Things like music, laundry folding, watering plants, games, or any activity that makes them feel productive and happy will tend to move their disposition towards a more upbeat mood.

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+!

New Scam Circulating

Our office has seen several instances of a new telephone scam that has surfaced recently.  Here's how it works...

A caller indicates that they are with a large sweepstakes company (IE: Publishers Clearing House, Readers Digest, etc.) and that you have won the grand prize.  They typically continue to describe the amount of money won, and ask questions about how you would like to recieve your winnings.  In addition, the caller may ask that you provide some personal information to prove who you are and to verify that you are indeed the winner.  Once the information is provided, a discussion will commence on the tax burden which is associated with your prize.  At this point, the caller offers methods of how you can pay the taxes so that the winnings can be delivered.  In one case we know of, the caller managed to get someone to pay over $40,000 "for taxes" up front.  Once the payment has been made, the victim never hears from the caller again.

Scammers have become very good with their presentations, and may even offer a website that can be visited to verify their validity.  The website is of course bogus.  The bottom line is, you should never pay money or give personal information to a stranger that calls.  No matter how convincing or knowledgeable the call sounds, requests for money prior to receiving a prize or service is a scam!

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+!

Protecting Seniors from Financial Abuse

 In broad terms, Senior Financial Abuse can be defined as the illegal or improper use of property or assets of anyone over the age of 60. 

 Some examples of this type of abuse can include identity theft, credit card fraud, abuse of Power of Attorney, deed theft, or using influence to receive cash or assets.  While we usually think of strangers committing this sort of abuse, it can also come from friends or family members.  Seniors are frequent targets primarily due to their lack of awareness of scams, or because they become more withdrawn and depend on another person that they see as trustworthy.  It's the latter reason that results in abuse stemming from family or other acquaintances.  This sort of abuse typically goes unreported owing to fear of the perpetrator, or due to embarrassment that they were taken advantage of.

How can you tell if someone you know is being financially abused?  The following are common warning signs to look for:
- Changes in typical spending habits.  Do you see account balances declining suddenly?
- Transferring assets to 'help a friend'.
- Checks made out to 'Cash', strange payments, or unfamiliar signatures.
- Large or unexplained withdrawals or transfers.
- Bills suddenly stacking up and not being paid.
- Unable to produce statements from financial institutes.
- A friend or family member that tries to isolate a senior from others. 

 Since financial abuse often correlates to isolation, it's important to make sure that regular social interaction with varying acquaintances occur on a regular basis.  Also, offer to accompany a senior to visit any professional advisers to make certain they understand any advice or changes that are planned. If you suspect financial abuse, but don't know what to do, visit the National Adult Protective Services Agency website.  This site can direct you to local agencies throughout the US that can assist you in finding the help you need.

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+!

A Change of Seasons

 The arrival of fall signals colorful leaves, shorter days, and the approach of cooler weather.  If you have senior family members or friends, you may have noticed when you visit that the home usually feels warm to you.  It's normal as we age to prefer warmer living quarters. But what can be done to keep a loved one comfortable and at the same time safe?
  First,  you’ll want to arrange to have the home furnace and heating system serviced by a professional.  They should confirm that a unit which has been dormant for a while will operate normally and at at peak efficiency. If possible, have them inspect heating ducts and registers, as well as humidifiers, to make sure the air circulating in your home is clean.  This is an excellent time to get all filters changed out also.
 If there is a fireplace, it’s important to clean and inspect it before using it again, as well as confirm the chimney is in operational condition.  For fireplaces with gas logs, most gas utilities will be able to provide this service and verify proper operation.
  Electric blankets and heated rugs or mats are also popular.  Prior to turning these on, take a moment to give a close inspection.  Frayed cords, worn areas, loose or damaged switches, etc., are all reasons to have the item replaced.
  Finally, small space heaters are popular with seniors as they provide local and directed warmth.  They are also one of the number one causes of house fires.  If space heaters are in use, make certain they are in good condition, that all built in safety devices are working (ie: tip-over cutoffs, carbon monoxide sensor, etc.), and that they are not close to drapes.  If unsure, have it checked by a professional or simply replaced.
  A few moments of attention to these small details can provide a wealth of improved safety and comfort for friends and loved ones.

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 Sandwich Generation

Have you ever heard of the term "Sandwich Generation" and wondered what it meant?  Or do you find yourself dealing with some very real challenges as a result of being a member of this group?   Mediastorm has recently released a video that documents one family's challenges of being a member of the Sandwich Generation.  Their movie trailer on this topic is well made and heart touching.  Take a few minutes to view it.  If you, or someone you know is struggling to deal with the same issues you'll see in the video, give us a call.  We'll be happy 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+!

Finding care for the Dementia or Alzheimer's sufferer

An Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis is a scary proposition.  Moving into a memory care center creates more stress for someone who is slowly losing themselves.  A loving and less stressful alternative is seeking out skilled Alzheimer’s home care.
  When a senior with dementia begins to lose their ability to organize their finances, keep their home clean, cook meals, or is not caring for their personal appearance, having a skilled home care provider can not only help an elderly loved one perform these tasks, but they can also brighten their day.  Alzheimer’s home care is actually a continuum of services provided by home care agencies.  Personal care agencies can help with companion services, dressing, bathing, light house work, shopping, eating and assist in reminding Alzheimer’s patients to take their medication.  As the disease progresses, home health care agencies can provide therapeutic care and activities as directed by the patient’s doctor.
  Prior to hiring a home care provider, there are steps follow to assure the needs of the sufferer are met:

•     Make a list of needs.  Be specific in both the needs and what the expectations are for how those needs will be met.  If the family expects breakfast and lunch to be prepared, light housework, medication reminders and assistance with bathing, they must outline these needs and how they expect them to be carried out.

•     Always screen the agency by phone first.  This not only ensures that the agency provides the type of  home care needed, but allows the family a first look at the customer service of the agency. How helpful are they over the phone?  Do they completely answer questions or provide vague responses?  First contact can be indicative of the overall attitude of the agency.

•     The majority of home care agencies will come to the patient’s home to do an on-site assessment at no charge.  Review the list of needs with the agency.  Families may want to have a few members present during the assessment so they can review the assessment afterward to see if the agency is a good fit for their loved one.

•   Make a list of routines. While this may seem trivial, we take for granted how we go through our daily activities, and we typically follow a daily pattern.  For a memory sufferer, having a consistent routine can be comforting.  Writing it down will help the incoming caregiver to continue this routine and put the sufferer at ease.

  Once a home health agency has been hired, be sure to share the loved one’s memories.  This allows the agency’s caregivers to form a bond with the patient.  The stronger the bond becomes with the senior, the happier they will be.  Sharing personal preferences, photos and accomplishments will aid in the bonding process as well.

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+!

VA Benefits - Aid & Attendance

 Hardly a week goes by that our office doesn't get a call from the family of a veteran needing care.  When these calls come in, the first question we ask is

"Have you inquired about Aid & Attendance?".  Almost without fail, the answer is "No, what's that", "We don't quality", or "We applied but never got anything".  Unfortunately, lack of knowledge about the benefit is what usually leads to these answers.
  So, what is the Department of Veterans Affairs Aid & Attendance benefit?  To quote, "The Aid and Attendance Pension provides benefits for veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person to assist in eating, bathing, dressing and undressing or taking care of the needs of nature. It also includes individuals who are blind or a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity, as well as assisted living facilities". Information on the benefit can be found by clicking on this link to the US Dept. of Veterans Affairs Website.
   Even with the information found on the web, what the benefit consists of, and how to apply, are not clear.  And that's where we can help.  As part of our commitment to give back to our Veteran's, Home Helpers of LKN & Central NC is dedicated to assisting families in navigating the process to apply for this pension. Simply give us a call and we will gladly offer instructions on what you need to do.  The benefit is well worth the effort to apply, it only takes a few minutes, and there is zero cost involved.
 Finally, if you're a veteran or spouse needing care, and you don't apply for this benefit, it's a sure bet that you'll never get 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+!

Tips for Renovating a Home for Aging in Place

If your family isn’t dealing with the challenges of a family member’s aging needs now, chances are you will be soon. With the number of old projected to outnumber the young by the year 2020 for the first time in history, taking care of the elderly (if only our own elderly selves) is something most of us will be faced with. Nearly 90% of seniors say they want to live at home for as long as possible, so making your home accessible now is in your best interest.  With that in mind, we'd like to offer 8 quick tips to accommodate aging at home...

1) Install grab bars in the shower. All bathrooms can benefit from the added security a grab bar provides. Be wary of the suction type when attaching to tile.  The tiles don't always provide a secure anchor point, and can pull from the wall!!!
2) Install a shower seat.  A foldable shower seat can give a needed rest, and can be stowed away when not in use.
3) Replace doorknobs with lever handles. Lever handles are much easier to operate than traditional doorknobs for those with arthritis and other hand ailments.
4) Replace traditional light switches with rocker or touch switches. As with doorknobs, a traditional toggle switch can be too small to handle, or even too small to see. A rocker or touch style is much simpler to operate.
5) Use easy-to-operate hardware for windows. Everyone needs fresh air once in a while, but some windows are harder to open than others. You may want to research the pros and cons of different window hardware options.
6) Install recessed lighting that illuminates cabinets and countertops. Installing task lighting to brighten workspaces in kitchens, laundry rooms and closets is a great way to improve living spaces for elders.
7) Install lever handles for sink faucets. Lever handles on sink faucets make them easier to operate for all users.
8) Install sensor lighting at each entry. This is a good safety feature for any house, but can especially help older occupants with impaired nighttime vision feel secure at home.

Most all of the above products can be found in local home-improvement stores.  And if you're not up to doing it yourself, ask the store if they have contractors that can 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+!

Medication Safety For Seniors

Did you know that seniors 65 and older, represent approximately 14% of the population but consume 40% of prescription medications and about 35% of all over the counter meds? The average number of medications a senior takes is between 12 and 18 prescriptions a year. That is a lot of medication to manage. Adverse drug reactions and non-compliance with medications is one of the leading causes for hospitalization in the elderly. With these statistics it’s important to make certain we are doing all we can to keep our seniors safe at home.

Some things to remember:
- Keep an updated list of your medications, dose and frequency in your wallet. Don’t forget to add any new medications
- If prescribed a new medication make certain to understand the name of the drug and its purpose
- How long to take the medication and side effects or warnings associated with the drug
- Fill prescription medications at the same pharmacy, their computer software can alert the pharmacist to any contradictions
- Over the counter medications should be discussed with a physician, some non-prescription meds can be potentially harmful

For those having trouble managing their medications we offer several options to assist.
- Direct Link medication dispensers,
- Nurse visits to help manage medications
- Employees escorting seniors to doctor appointments can bring current med list for the MD to review
Lastly, we can be in the home when family can’t, to remind seniors how important it is to take their medications as prescribed.

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+!

Remember Dad on Father's Day

A quick poem to remember dad...

 Daddy, I love you
 For all that you do.
 I 'll kiss you and hug you
 'Cause you love me, too.

 You feed me and need me
 To teach you to play,
 So smile 'cause I love you
 On this Father's Day.
     Author Unknown


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+!

Communicating with Dementia & Alzheimer's sufferers

 Our office works with countless families that are dealing with Alzheimer's or dementia.  While not contagious, both of these conditions have a huge impact on the family, not just the sufferer. 

Communication in these cases is crucial in that it can have a direct impact on sufferer's demeanor,  attitude, mood, etc.  With that in mind, we offer some tips on how to make this task easier:

1. Don’t say “remember”. Many times they will not be able to do so, and you are just pointing out their shortcomings. That is insulting, and can cause anger and/or embarrassment. Remove this word from your vocabulary!
2. Turn negatives into positives. For example say “Let’s do this” instead of “Stop doing that”.
3. Tell them what you are going to do before you do it. Particularly if you are going to touch them. They need to know what is coming first so that they don’t think that they are being grabbed.
4. Make eye contact. Always approach them face-to-face and make eye contact before speaking. It is important that they actually see you and that their attention is focused on you.
5. Do not stand or hover over them – it is intimidating and scary. They can’t focus on you and what you are saying if they are frightened.  Being at their eye level is a friendlier approach.
6. If you have questions, only ask one at a time. And let them answer it before you move on to another.
7. Always speak in a calm manner. If you sound angry or agitated, they will often mimic that mood, and it's likely to stay with them for a while!
8. Do not argue as it gets you nowhere. It's better to validate feelings, by saying "I understand how you feel”.  Then redirect by asking them to tell a story that they are fond of sharing.  For instance, lead them into the topic by saying "Tell me about the time..."

 These simple techniques can help ease an Alzheimer's & dementia sufferers anxiety tremendously.  Give it a try.

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 disease and good health practices

Recently, several news networks have carried articles on Alzheimer's prevention recommendations.  While these health conditions are not definitive, and certainly not guaranteed to prevent the disease, they all seem to have a direct connection back into patients that suffer from Alzheimer's.  With that in mind, here are the top 7:


1. Too little exercise
Not enough physical activity is the number one preventable factor that contributes to Alzheimer's cases. About one third of the U.S. population is sedentary, so the highest risk factor is also dangerously common - time to get up and move.
2. Depression
Depressed? Maybe it's time to seek treatment - 15 percent of Alzheimer's cases may stem from depression.
3. Smoking
Need another reason not to smoke? Smoking accounts for 11 percent of Alzheimer's cases.
4. High blood pressure
How's your blood pressure? Keep it in check - 8 percent of Alzheimer's cases are linked to mid-life hypertension.
5. Obesity
Packing on the pounds as you pile on the years? Midlife obesity accounts for 7 percent of Alzheimer's cases in the U.S.
6. Idle mind
Time to go back to school - or to pick up a crossword puzzle!  Lack of cerebral exercise - or simply not using your brain enough - accounts for 7 percent of Alzheimer's cases in the U.S.
7. Diabetes
Problems with blood sugar control kick off the list of modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's. The study suggests that 3 percent of Alzheimer's cases in the U.S. are linked to diabetes.

You may notice that these tips are pretty much basic good health practices.  So add that as another good reason to consider correcting any of the above problems!

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+!

New Scam Alert!

We've had several reports lately of a new scam that targets senior citizens, and this one even hit the

parents of staff in our office!  Here's how it works...

A phone call comes in to a senior, and the caller claims to be a child, grandchild, niece/nephew, or a similar type of relative.  In all of the cases we've heard of, the caller used the actual relative's name.  They then go on to say that they are in jail and need bail money to get out.  The caller then claims that the local police sergeant will explain how to send the money, and hands the phone over to the "sergeant".   This person states that the only way the incarcerated child/grandchild/etc can be released is if a credit card is provided to process the bail charge.

Obviously, this is all a scam that's intended to play on the caring hearts of a grandparent.  And while it may seem transparent when you read this, a senior that's not tech savvy or familiar with these types of ploys is likely to try to help get their child/grandchild/etc out of jail!

How are the scammers getting personal information?  Most likely from social media sites, and it's then a simple process of looking up phone numbers.  Remember, these sites are constantly trying to be hacked and personal information is often leaked!  Please share this story with family members, be cognizant of what you post online, and NEVER give a credit card to a caller!

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+!

Remember Mom on Mothers Day

We stumbled across this poem from an anonymous author, and thought it fitting to share in honor of

moms everywhere on Mother's Day...

  You filled my days with rainbow lights,
  Fairytales and sweet dream nights,
  A kiss to wipe away my tears,
  Gingerbread to ease my fears,
  You gave the gift of life to me,
  And then in love, you set me free,
  I thank you for your tender care,
  For deep warm hugs and being there,
  I hope that when you think of me,
  A part of you, you'll always see.

 Motherhood is not an easy job, but moms everywhere gladly accept the responsibilities. Remember your mom on mother's day.  And if she ever needs help, give us a call.  We'll be happy to do anything we can to assist and honor her.

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+!

Allergy Season is Upon Us!

We've left winter, and the accompanying flu season, for spring and allergies!  The Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) declares May to be National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. It's peak season for asthma and allergy sufferers, and a perfect time to educate family, friends, co-workers, etc., about this malaise.

There is no safe place from allergies in America, and some cities are more problematic than others.  The "Allergy Capitals" is an annual research project to identify the "100 most challenging places to live with allergies".  This year, Louisville, KY landed in the #1 spot, a move up from fifth last year.  If you're curious to know where your city ranks, visit www.AllergyCapitals.com.  There's a list on this site of the top 100 most challenging places to live with allergies.

What to do if you are a sufferer?  http://www.webmd.com offers some suggestions:

1. Leave your shoes at the door. When you come home from the outside, taking your shoes off at the door lessens the amount of pollen you track into the house. Wipe down your dog's coat before he comes into the house, too, because pollen clings to fur.
2. Wash your hair before bed. If you're a morning shampoo person, consider switching to shampooing and showering before bed instead. That way, pollen that collected on your hair during the day won’t rub off on your pillow.
3. Close up the house. Open windows can be refreshing, but they let in pollen.
4. Use the ''recirculate" option in the car. Keep windows and sunroofs closed. Especially on high-pollen days, recirculate the air in your car instead of using the vent, which may let in pollen.
5. Service the filters in your furnace and air conditioner. Change them at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer, or more frequently if it seems to help.

While these tips won't cure you of allergy issues, they will help to mitigate the problem.  And every little bit helps!
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+!

Customer Service, a true story!

  On a recent morning, a client that uses our emergency alert system called to say the alert button had stopped working. Our agency advises clients to regularly test their system to confirm proper function and to provide familiarity with how the units work.  The button had been tested that day and seemed to be intermittent. Since we supply two buttons to our clients, we advised him to use the 2nd button, and that we would be out after lunch to replace the non-functioning button.  We also advised him to test the 2nd button while we were speaking on the phone.  He did this, and it worked properly.

That afternoon, when our employee arrived at the client's home to replace the alert button, a rescue squad came up as he was entering the building.  Not knowing what was going on, he held the door open as they zipped into the building, down the hall, and around the corner.  He then proceeded to the clients condo, only to find that was where the rescue squad had gone!

It seems that only a few minutes earlier, the client had fallen.  While not injured, he was unable to stand, and had activated the alert button.  The rescue squad helped him back to his feet, and verified that all was ok.  Prior to leaving, several of the squad members commented on how easy it was to find the client as they were given instructions as well as an address, and they didn't have to break in as they were given information on gaining access as well!

So, if you step back and review this story, you'll see a lot of benefit for this client from our agency.  IE:
 1. A local number, and person, to call when there is an equipment problem.
 2. Same day support & repair from the same local office.
 3. When needed, emergency responders are given detailed data on the person in need.
 4. Quick response tailored to the client.
 5. A human came to the home to help with the problem.  No mailing, return shipments, dealing with offshore call centers, etc.
 6. Same cost, or cheaper, with better products, service, & support than competitors.

There's obviously more benefits, but knowing the above 6, it's hard to imagine anyone going elsewhere for this type of service!  We challenge you to put us to the test.  Call our office 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+!

Beware Caregiver Scams

Recently there have been several scams reported where families searching for an in home caregiver used an online service to locate someone to work privately with a loved one.  In almost all cases, the person they contacted did not really exist, and money was extorted in some form of a prepayment.  The online services that were used have posted notices to alert users, yet this sort of activity is difficult to control, and most services say as much in their fine print (the part that people don't typically read!).  The FTC recently posted a warning on their website about some of these activities which is available to read here.  Sadly, their listing is but one example of common scams.

If you're going to hire someone to work in your home privately, make sure you know what you're doing.  Criminal backgrounds, substance abuse, recurring driving infractions, findings from professional registries, etc., should always be checked first.  In addition, you should be aware of the legal liabilities you assume, as well as the requirements for tax and insurance obligations in your state.  You should never assume that because you found a person listed on a web service, that everything is above board!  It's rare for services to perform this type of leg work for you.

An easy solution to this headache is to enroll the services of a licensed home care agency.  In addition to removing the burden of making sure that the person has been properly vetted, the insurance covered by the agency will protect both you and their employees.  Home Helpers has been providing In Home Care service for over a decade, and we understand the importance of protecting everyone involved.  In addition, we will work to guide you to get the best possible value for your needs.  If you have a need for care services, or know someone who does, feel free to give us a call.  We'll be glad to assist in any way possible.

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+!

Drug Management

According to the CDC, more Boomers died of overdoses in 2013 than from car accidents, the flu, and pneumonia combined.  The Wall Street Journal reported  recently that this death statistic is expected to worsen as Boomers bring drug-using habits into old age with them to cope with everything from pain to declining functional ability.  Old habits and new challenges tend to not mix well in this situation.

As the article tells us, this group is in the midst of a perfect storm - the collision of the first generation with a predilection of mind-altering substances and record high rates of opiod painkiller abuse.

We find ourselves frequently working with families who are coping with a loved one with some sort of substance abuse, or with complex drug needs that are difficult to manage.  One solution for drug management is our electronic dispenser that provides the proper dose at the correct time.  Since it's a monitored solution, if the dosage isn't taken, the unit notifies us so that we can follow up with a phone call.  This allows us to confirm if the client is ok and they simply missed the alert, or if there's a problem that needs attention.  It's an affordable solution to an issue that can be challenging.  For more information, feel free to call our office.

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+!

Elder Abuse

  Every year, more than half a million American elders are abused or neglected according to Centers for Disease Control. The frequency of elder abuse may be greater as so many are afraid or simply unable to speak out about what is happening to them. In some cases, the abuse is limited to financial exploitation. In other cases, it may encompass neglect and physical cruelty.  Different varieties of elder abuse have different signals, some less obvious than others.  Here are some examples:

1- Neglect. This is commonly defined as withholding or failing to supply necessities of daily living to an elder, from food, water and appropriate clothing to necessary hygiene and medicines.
2- Abandonment. This occurs when a caregiver or responsible party simply deserts an elder – dropping them off at a nursing home, a hospital, or even a bus or train station with no plans to return. Hopefully, the elder has the presence of mind to call for help, but if not, a tragic situation will quickly worsen.
3- Physical abuse. Bruises and lacerations are evident signals, but other indicators are less evident: sprains and dislocations, cracked eyeglass lenses, impressions on the arms or legs from restraints, too much or too little medication, etc.
4- Emotional or psychological abuse. How do you know if an elder has been verbally degraded, tormented, or threatened in your absence, or left in isolation? If they aren't  willing or able to let you know about such wrongdoing, watch for signals such as withdrawal from conversation or communication, agitation or distress, and repetitive or obsessive-compulsive actions linked to dementia such as rocking, biting or sucking.
5- Financial abuse. When a relative, friend or other party uses an elder's funds, property, or assets illegally or dishonestly, this is financial exploitation. This may vary from withdrawing savings with an ATM card to forgery to improperly assuming power of attorney.

  Some people aim to exploit senior citizens. Others simply don’t recognize or respect the responsibilities that come with eldercare. Whether the abuse is intentional or not, the emotional, physical or financial harm done can be reprehensible. If you suspect abuse, but aren't sure where to turn, call us.  We'll be glad refer you to the correct resources.

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+!

A Final Grammy Award

 If you're a regular follower of our posts, or a fan of Glen Campbell, you'll recall our article about his struggles with Alzheimer's and the making of his last album. You can read it again and view the video clip by clicking on this link.  It's both a sad and heartwarming story, and well worth reading.

  A song from that album has earned Glen Campbell what is likely to be his final Grammy Award.  "I'm Not Gonna Miss You," is a bittersweet tune which he co-wrote with Julian Raymond for the 2014 documentary Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me.  That documentary outlined the affects Alzheimer's has had on both himself and his family.  You can read more about this recent award online in this Rolling Stone article. 
  As the inevitable progress of Alzheimer's cannot be stopped, Glen is now forced to reside in a memory care facility.  The Grammy Award is a fitting tribute to a very talented entertainer.
  If you have a friend or loved one that is struggling with this disease, and would like to know more about unique in-home care in this situation, give us a call.  We provide specialized staff training to make dealing with Alzheimer's as easy as possible.  We can be reached at 704-909-7958, or visit our website at www.LKNHomeCare.com.

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+!
 

Changes, and actions to take...

Many of us traveled home for the holidays to visit Mom and Dad. This time spent together comes once a year and is a special time, filled with holiday excitement and cheer. But, did you notice signs that something may be slightly off?

Here's a starting point for evaluating what you're seeing:

-    Changed eating habits, resulting in losing weight, having no appetite, or missing meals.
-    Neglected personal hygiene, including wearing dirty clothes and having body odor, bad breath, neglected nails and teeth, or sores on the skin.
-    Neglected their home, with a noticeable change in cleanliness and sanitation.
-    Exhibited inappropriate behavior, such as being unusually loud, quiet, paranoid, or agitated, or making phone calls at all hours.
-    Changed relationship patterns, causing friends and neighbors to express concerns.
-    Decreased or stopped participating in activities that were once important to them, such as bridge or a book club, dining with friends, or attending religious services.
-    Exhibited forgetfulness, resulting in unopened mail, piling of newspapers, not filling their prescriptions, or missing appointments.
-    Mishandled finances, such as not paying bills, losing money, paying bills twice or more, or hiding money. Made unusual purchases, such as buying more than one subscription to the same magazine, entering an unusually large number of contests, or increasing purchases from television advertisements.

Now What?
  We all want our parents to remain in their home for as long as possible, and most people feel this way.  In fact, 89% of seniors say the ability to age in place – or live independently and remain in one’s home – is very important, but more than half of those surveyed (53%) are concerned with their ability to do so.
  If a large distance separates you from your aging loved one, or if you don’t have the chance to spend time with them as often as you’d like, hiring an in-home caregiver can ensure that they receive the daily care they need. A little extra help with housework, cooking and errands may be all that the senior in your life needs, or they could need a more intensive care plan that includes personal care.  Whatever the needs, Home Helpers can provide solutions to keeping your loved one happy, healthy and at home.  Call us today.  We'll be happy to talk work with you through these challenges.

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+!

Beneficial activities for the Alzheimer's sufferer

Coming up with daily activities for an Alzheimer's sufferer may feel like an uphill battle. One of the biggest stumbling blocks people have is avoiding over-stimulating actions that can frustrate the individual too much. There are numerous benefits to get a patient with Alzheimer’s to use their mind more frequently. Playing strategic games such as chess can be incredibly beneficial. Below are additional suggestions that should be considered:

1: Reminiscing:  Another great activity for Alzheimer’s patients is reminiscing. Talk about things that you did in your past and begin asking questions of the Alzheimer’s patient. They may not be able to remember certain things, and sometimes their memories may clouded, but that’s okay. Redirect them to memories they can recall. That can actually open the door to things they haven’t thought about, memories they haven’t held onto in many years.

2: Arts & Crafts:  Putting together scrapbooks can be a fun pastime that forces the individual to use their brain, concentrate, and even inspire memories to come to the surface. Quilting or painting can be incredibly beneficial. Reading aloud or even talking about books that they read together can be a great way to spend some time.

3: Music:  Encouraging the Alzheimer’s patient to sing, regardless of whether they can hold a note or not, is good because it brings oxygen to the brain. You can also look to incorporate dance routines when coming up with certain types of music.  You may also want to sit down and suggest writing songs.

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+!

New Developments in the Treatment of Alzheimer's

After years of setbacks, Alzheimer's researchers are sounding optimistic again. The reason: a brain protein called tau. At this year's Society for Neuroscience meeting in Washington, D.C., there are more than 100 papers on tau, which is responsible for the tangles that form in the brains of people with Alzheimer's. In the past, tau has received less attention than another protein called amyloid beta, which causes the sticky plaques associated with Alzheimer's.

This toxic tau, known as a tau oligomer, occurs not only in Alzheimer's patients but also in people with traumatic brain injury.  New research suggests that treating Alzheimer's will require drugs that affect both tau and amyloid, and perhaps other factors that are less well understood.  It's because of this new research that new tools for treating alzheimer's are coming available.

We'll keep you posted as news of these developments unfold.

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+!