'Tiz the season to worry about mom & dad...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

 December is a time for family.  As the time when many travel to be with parents or grandparents, a family gathering can bring to light previously unknown physical or mental problems of aging relatives.  It's important to distinguish between traits of normal aging and something more serious.  Here are a few items you should take note of..

1. House - Neat and maintained or dusty and in disrepair?
2. Refrigerator - Adequate and fresh food?  Have eating habits changed?  Is there weight loss?
3. Conversation - Are extended conversations a challenge?  Do they repeat questions several times?
4. Forgetfulness - Are there stacks of unopened mail, unpaid bills, missed appointment reminders?
5. Hygiene - Do they look less tidy than the last time you saw them? IE: unshaven, clothes not clean/neat, hair not combed, body odor.
6. Driving - Can they drive themselves safely?  Do you say to yourself "oh no, they're driving to...".

  This is only a brief list.  Our aging families, parents, friends and loved ones rarely want to burden anyone, but we shouldn't ignore their needs.  If you notice these traits, talk about it in a caring manner with them, and also discuss how you can improve the issues.  Above all, be gentle when making changes.

Head to Toe Women's Show

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

 Make plans to attend Head to Toe - A Holiday Women's Show on Thursday, Dec. 9th between 9am & 5pm at the Charles Mack Citizen's center in Mooresville, NC.  While there, be sure to stop by our booth to say "Hi" and to register for our Spring 2011 Sunset Cruise for yourself and 3 guests!  Visit our website at  www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 and click on the link in the "In The News" pane to learn more about the drawing.
 We hope to see you there!

 Providing care for over a decade to the most important of generations....    Yours!

Holidays, Friends, and Family

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

  It's the holiday season again. For the elderly loved ones in your life (or your neighborhood) the holidays can be a time of many 'bittersweet' memories from seasons long ago. Many of our Elders no longer have the friends and family they shared happy holiday seasons with in the 'good old days'. This time of year can make people feel alone, sad, and hopeless. With a little time, effort, and a willing heart we can all brighten the holiday spirit for the elders in our life.  You really only need 3 things: Your Time, Your Attention, and a Willing Heart.

  Encourage your loved one to talk about their memories of Christmas past.  Most people enjoy reminiscing about the "good old days", and with a little encouragement you are likely to hear stories that will bring tears to your eyes.

  This is a great time to pamper your loved one, making them understand that the times may be different, but they are is still much appreciated and loved.  If you give a gift, it needn't be elaborate.

  The most difficult part of all of this is providing your time and attention. Most of us are already stressed out during the holidays with work, children, other responsibilities, not to mention the extra stresses caused by the current economy. Remember though, giving of yourself can be the greatest gift of all.

Thanksgiving

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958


  This Thanksgiving, let's all try to remember how blessed we are, and do something to help our fellow man.  An act of kindness is seldom forgotten.
  Here's wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

VA benefits updates...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958
  

  Recently, the Veterans Administration took steps to streamline the application process for Veteran's Aid & Attendance benefits. This is great news, but it's not the "end all" to a complex process that has frustrated veterans for years, and still retains several pitfalls. The Veteran Aid group has posted a great article covering the improvements and problems that remain. For more information, see the article on their web site by Clicking Here. 

  If you're a Vet, and not sure if you're eligible for Aid & Attendance benefits, we have a good explanation of how it works, and what it can provide on our website.  Keep in mind that changes in healthcare are affecting the final numbers on all benefits these days, but this benefit is one that every veteran should take advantage of.  Learn more by visiting the Home Helpers website by Clicking Here, then click on Aid & Attendance - VA Benefit in the Personal Links section.

Alzheimer’s: Recognizing the Symptoms and Finding Care

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958


November is Alzheimers Awareness Month.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease currently affects approximately 5.3 million Americans, and this number is expected to triple by 2050. Home Helpers has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Early Detection Alliance to help raise awareness, educate the public, provide enhanced care and find a cure.  Early Alzheimer’s detection helps ensure that those diagnosed are receiving proper care.  Below are 10 warning signs that may indicate Alzheimer’s:

Memory loss                                                          Problems with language

Misplacing things                                            Disorientation
Poor or decreased judgment                      Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Problems with abstract thinking         Changes in mood or behavior
Changes in personality                                Loss of initiative

If your loved one is exhibiting any of the signs above, it’s important to consult their doctor. Dealing with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally challenging, but the more familiar you are with the signs and symptoms of the disease the better you will be able to cope and relieve stress.

At Home Helpers, we provide employees with client-specific training, full screening and insurance to ensure you and your family are protected. We can be there to ensure your loved one is taking their medication, eating properly, and being supervised daily.  For more information on Alzheimers, visit www.alz.org .