Vol. 1 Issue 1 - September 2008
“Caring from Afar”
Millions of Americans face the heartache of how to take care of aging parents from afar. The distance, not to mention the pressures of a demanding job and responsibilities at home, can make out-of-town kids feel helpless, worried and guilt-ridden.
It may be time to hire a caregiver to help, but determining the right type and level of assistance can be a challenge. Experts suggest that a good first step is to identify specific "care needs," even if you must do this from a distance. Using email and the phone, you can connect with trusted neighbors or relatives and become better informed about the well being of your parents.
Pay close attention to signs that indicate home care may be necessary. The following list can help you get started:
My loved one...
- Needs assistance with housekeeping, laundry and other household duties
- Needs assistance preparing healthy meals
- Needs assistance with bathing, toileting or other personal care needs
- Shouldn’t be left home alone
- Needs Transportation to medical appointments and other activities
- Won’t leave the house, they need a companion
This checklist will help you break any problems into smaller, more manageable units and will also help you define the resources you need to care for your loved ones from afar. For more tips, visit our website www.synergyhomecare.com or call your local synergy office.
“Companionship”
Synergy HomeCare caregivers serve as a lifeline to those that are homebound or just need a little help around the house. This often means that your loved one can maintain a level of independence that would not be possible otherwise.
Caregivers can offer family members support and a much needed break from taking care of their loved one. A Synergy careTEAM member can give family members the time they need to run errands, go shopping, or just get some much needed rest while knowing that their loved one is left in good hands. Whether it’s simply having a conversation, playing cards, or just eating a meal together, the service of companionship can make for a happier and healthier life.
Loved Ones Rest Assured
Studies show that more than half of seniors living alone are undernourished. Our caregivers can help your loved one avoid those dangers by monitoring food and fluid intake, preparing nutritious meals, and assisting those that have a hard time feeding themselves.
Synergy HomeCare careTEAM members make sure that your loved one is safe and act quickly on what is called a “change in condition” – anything that appears out of the ordinary. You can take comfort in the fact that these changes will not be overlooked. Synergy HomeCare caregivers also assist with everything from companionship and transportation to personal care and live ins.
Synergy HomeCare caregivers can often be the key to seniors maintaining a happy and independent lifestyle. Visit our website for more information www.synergyhomecare.com or call your local Synergy Office.
“Alzheimer’s-Proof”
Families of people with Alzheimer’s disease know that a protected and caring living environment is a big part of ensuring the health and happiness of your loved one. Caregivers find that their jobs are made easier when they can create safe places where their loved one can move about comfortably without being frustrated. Here is a check list of some important home modifications that will help everyone affected by AD feel safe and comfortable:
- Install secure locks on all outside doors and windows
- Keep refrigerator clean from all expired foods
- Place nonskid adhesive strips, decals, or mats in the tub and shower
- Use child safety locks for cabinets to chemicals, sharp objects, appliances, and alcohol
- Consider dismantling the garbage disposal
- Display emergency numbers and your home address near all telephones
- Secure and lock all motor vehicles
Experts say that “Alzheimer’s proofing” is becoming mainstream. Mark Warner, author of The Complete Guide to Alzheimer's-Proofing Your Home, suggests the use of various zones to create an Alzheimer's-friendly home: The “safe zone” where a person with AD may freely roam, the “the storage zone” that restricts access to dangerous rooms like the garage and basement; and “the re¬spite zone” dedicated to the caregiver that will allow private time to reduce stress and avoid burnout.
“Caregiver Hub”
The holiday season can be a stressful time for families and seniors. The expectations for a “happy” holiday, the added obligations of the season, and the generally hectic pace can take a toll on family members providing care for loved ones. What can you do to relieve stress around the holidays and combat unwelcome tension and anxiety? Here are three quick tips that can help:
Tip 1 – Create Realistic Expectations
It’s easy to get caught up in roman¬tic images of an ideal holiday where everyone is happy and everything runs smoothly. The reality is that not every holiday is idyllic, so think through your plans and set realistic expectations. Use simple measures for success, like “hoping for everyone to smile at least once,” and don't try to make this holiday perfect, just happy.
Tip 2 – Accept Realistic Obligations
If your holiday calendar is over¬booked you will feel overwhelmed as well. Set realistic obligations and be sensitive about how you plan to spend your time. You may need to make hard choices, but prioritizing your obligations will lower your holiday stress.
Tip 3 – Be Good To Your Body
The holidays are filled with tempting treats that contain too much fat, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. With the added hustle of the season, family members taking care of loved ones often do not get nearly enough sleep and exercise. One way to relieve holiday stress is to pay close attention to your body’s need for healthy food, exercise, and sleep during this intense time of year.
