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Top Tips for Attending a Healthcare Appointment with an Older Parent

Family Caregiver Tips, All Posts, Health and Wellness

One of the many hats you may find yourself wearing as a family caregiver is accompanying your loved one to medical appointments. Seems simple enough, right? Yet there are a number of challenging dynamics and thoughts to consider to make attending a healthcare appointment with an older parent or another senior loved one smooth and successful for both of you.

For instance, it’s easy to slip into the reversed role of parenting your parent. Feelings of pride and a fear of lost independence can lead to a struggle if these waters aren’t navigated carefully and with empathy and compassion.

Dr. Ken Druck, aging and family psychology expert and author of “Raising an Aging Parent, Guidelines for Families in the Second Half of Life,” recommends having an open and honest discussion with your older parent before the first trip to the doctor together. He stresses the importance of “not waiting until a crisis to establish a line of communication. It’s like a line of credit. You’re building trust.”

The elder care experts at American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care recommend establishing boundaries together by asking questions such as:

  • Do you want me to come with you into the exam room with you? Or would you prefer that I remain in the waiting room?
  • Do you want me to ask questions or share my observations and thoughts? Or would you prefer that I remain silent and let you ask questions?
  • Would you feel more comfortable if I wait in the car?

If possible, and cognitive decline or hearing loss isn’t impeding the senior’s ability, it’s usually best to let your parent take the lead – in particular, letting him or her answer the doctor’s questions without stepping in unless asked to do so. And, if the doctor speaks to and makes eye contact only with you and not your parent, it’s important to use either verbal or nonverbal cues to let the doctor know to redirect his/her attention to the senior.

Maintaining a tone of respect, with both the senior and the healthcare professional, while positioning yourself as an advocate for a senior loved one, demonstrates your intention to work collaboratively together as a team, and never to try to take charge.

After the healthcare visit and before leaving the office, ask your parent or other senior loved one to summarize what was discussed to ensure everyone is on the same page about the plan going forward.

American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care’s skilled referred care providers are also available to provide transportation and accompaniment for seniors to attend medical appointments and procedures, according to each senior’s particular requests and schedule. We can also help seniors get settled back in at home after their appointments, pick up prescriptions and groceries, prepare healthy meals and offer friendly companionship, among other services – for the best quality of life overall, both physically and emotionally.

Click on the location below that’s nearest to your aging parent to learn more:

Call us at your convenience to let us help improve life for a senior you love with our customized Florida in-home care services.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Adapting Everyday Activities to Keep Alzheimer’s Patients Active and Engaged

Alzheimer’s and Dementia, All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips, Health and Wellness

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia, you may start to notice some progressive changes in daily activity levels and engagement with regular pastimes. However, it’s vitally important to help Alzheimer’s patients stay active by adapting everyday activities because it helps preserve a sense of purpose and bolster feelings of personal autonomy.

Predictability and stability are essential for preventing older adults with dementia from becoming confused or frightened, so planning ahead is the key to success. Planned activities for Alzheimer’s patients can help them maintain an active lifestyle and can also reduce challenging Alzheimer's behaviors like shadowing, agitation, and anger. To follow are some helpful tips from the senior care experts at American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care for adapting everyday activities to keep a loved one with dementia active and engaged.

  • Preparation and Set-Up. Prepare the planned activity beforehand to make it easier for your loved one to complete it successfully. For example, lay out freshly laundered socks and ask for help with matching socks together, or put a pile of dirty clothes on the table and have your loved one help sort lights and darks prior to washing.
  • Prompting and Cueing. If a senior loved one with dementia becomes easily frustrated with an activity, try prompting him or her onto the next step or task before they become agitated or stuck. Utilize direct verbal cues, guiding your loved one through an activity like dressing with simple, step-by-step instructions. Remember to use a gentle, patient tone and allow plenty of time between each cue for the senior with dementia to complete one action before moving onto the next action.
  • Adapting for Ability. Some of the best activities for loved ones with Alzheimer’s are normal daily tasks adapted to meet their abilities. It may be tempting to take over and do everything for a senior loved one with dementia, but including them in regular daily routines is a better way to preserve feelings of independence, normalcy, and purpose. Adapting for ability can be as simple as laying out the items needed for a task and keeping the task as simple as possible. For instance, folding towels or wash cloths is a simple repeatable task and is not as difficult as folding other items of laundry.
  • Gentle Physical Assistance. Lastly, some activities may require moderate physical assistance, especially if a loved one is still physically able to do a task, but can’t fully complete it on his or her own. While heavy lifting and reaching things up high might be the first to come to mind, also consider offering physical assistance with simpler tasks, such as gently guiding a loved one’s hand when it looks like he or she is not sure what to do next or holding clothing to assist with getting dressed. Assisted activities are a great way to help those with Alzheimer's maintain daily routines.

Keeping Alzheimer’s patients active helps to ease their feelings of unrest and nurture a sense of independence. The senior care professionals at American, Advocate or Whitsyms In-Home Care are always available to offer additional dementia care resources and support. And when you partner with one of our referred care providers for assistance, you can rest easy knowing that a senior loved one is receiving the finest in-home care.

As the trusted choice for senior in-home care in Florida for over 25 years, our family of brands has offices conveniently located throughout the state:

Contact us today at the location nearest you and let us help find the perfect care provider to meet your needs.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Helping Seniors with Chronic Health Conditions Kick Off a Healthy New Year

Health and Wellness, All Posts

One of the most commonly made
– and broken –
New Year’s resolutions is to exercise more and eat healthier.

For seniors with chronic health conditions (as many as 85% of older adults who are struggling with at least one, and 60% with at least two), the challenge to make healthy lifestyle choices is even more challenging.

The benefits, however, are well worth the investment of time and energy, including:

  • A substantial (71%) decrease in diabetes
  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Better sleeping habits
  • Improved balance, leading to fewer falls
  • Decreased arthritis pain
  • And more!

It’s crucial for seniors to first schedule an appointment with their primary care physician (and/or the specialist treating specific chronic health conditions) for approval to begin or change any exercise or dietary plan.

Upon receiving the doctor’s consent, the senior care companies Florida families trust at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care suggest trying these simple recommendations:

Physical Activity

  • Perhaps the easiest, least expensive, and most enjoyable physical activity is taking walks. Find a walking buddy, start off slowly, and get out in nature to enjoy the fresh air and scenery.
  • Try tai chi or yoga, which are both great for enhancing flexibility, relieving joint stiffness, and increasing range of motion. Follow along with an online tai chi or yoga instructor, or join an in-person class, wearing face coverings as appropriate (and boost socialization in the process).
  • Build endurance and strength while going easy on joints with low-impact exercises such as swimming or riding a stationary bicycle.

Healthy Eating

  • Begin by replacing bad eating habits with healthier options, one at a time. For instance, if a typical snack is salty chips or pretzels, opt for baby carrots and hummus instead. Once you’ve become adjusted to that one switch, choose another – such as replacing the white bread used to make sandwiches with whole grain bread.
  • Include a variety of food groups throughout the day, as well as a variety of colors. Use this listing of food groups and portion sizes for inspiration.
  • Don’t forget about beverages! Opting for water, whether plain, sparkling, or flavored, is a much healthier choice than soda, sugar-sweetened tea, or coffee.

Mental Health

  • Staying connected to others is so important for mental/emotional wellbeing. When in-person visits with family and friends aren’t possible, keep in touch by phone or through virtual visits, using Zoom or a similar platform.
  • Find ways to reach out to help others, which is one of the best ways to boost self-worth, mood, and a sense of purpose. A few ideas include baking cookies to have delivered to a homeless shelter for a special, homemade treat; writing letters or cards to lift the spirits of friends or family members who are struggling; putting together care packages for local veterans.
  • Take plenty of time for relaxing, enjoyable self-care activities: reading, listening to favorite music, spending time in nature, engaging in art projects, etc.

American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care’s professional referred care providers are always here to help seniors stay motivated to make and stick to a healthier way of life, and to provide the high quality care they deserve, whether through accompanying seniors to exercise classes , planning and preparing healthy meals, companionship to foster socialization and alleviate loneliness, or a wide range of other services.

Learn more about how we can help by clicking on the location below closest to you for more information:

Contact us today to learn more about how exceptional, personalized Florida home care services can make life better for a senior you love!

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

The Link Between Hearing Loss in Seniors and Cognitive Health

Health and Wellness, All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia,

To help maintain health, it’s important to visit the doctor regularly. For older adults with multiple health conditions, several physicians may be part of the senior’s healthcare team, working to keep chronic conditions monitored and under control. It’s no wonder that when an annual hearing exam is recommended, some seniors figure that is one healthcare visit they can postpone or even skip without any true risk to overall health and wellness. But that’s just not true.
According to recent studies, age-related hearing loss has been shown to be associated with cognitive decline and dementia. While researchers are still working to determine the cause behind this link, one emerging theory is that hearing loss can cause people to become withdrawn from conversations and social activities, leading to a lack of stimulation and isolation. Since social interaction is so important to brain health, a decrease may lead to negative long-term cognitive impacts.
Because of the potential link between hearing loss and cognitive function, it’s important to make and keep regular yearly appointments with an audiologist. An audiologist will test for hearing loss and can make recommendations for hearing aids as well. Hearing aids will not only help seniors feel more confident in social interactions, but they help enhance safety, too.

In addition to recommending that older adults maintain cognitive function through regular hearing exams, the senior care experts at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following suggestions to help promote brain health:

  • Maintain an active mind. Engaging in hobbies that keep the brain active can help lower the risk of dementia. Consider activities that are challenging, such as learning to play a musical instrument, learning a new language, taking an online class, or doing math or word puzzles.
  • Stay physically active. Regular cardio-based exercise helps promote not only cognitive health, but mental and physical health benefits, too. Start out slow and try building to the recommended 30 minutes per day. Always speak with a physician before starting or adjusting an exercise regimen.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet. Making healthy food choices and including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in a senior’s diet also provides both cognitive and physical health benefits. Make it a point to reduce foods that contain high amounts of saturated fats, sodium and sugar from the senior’s diet.
  • Stay connected. Maintaining social connections helps keep the brain healthy. Stay connected with friends and family and get involved in the local community. If in-person visits aren’t possible, use the telephone or a conferencing app like Zoom. Conversations provide important mental stimulation and cut down on feelings of isolation.

We’re here to help ensure seniors maintain their cognitive function and overall health and wellbeing. With professional and highly-trained referred care providers, Florida families have trusted American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care since 1992. We offer a variety of in-home care services, including companionship, personal care assistance, specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care, and so much more. Let us help a senior you love remain active, engaged and thriving in the comfort of home with a customized care plan that promotes cognitive health.

Reach out today at a location near you to learn more about the difference we can make in the life of a senior you love.

To find out more about the many ways we can help, click on the location below that is nearest to you for additional information:

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Family Caregiving with Your Siblings

Family Caregiver Tips, All Posts

As children, siblings go through a range of experiences and emotional journeys together. Threaded in with the joys of growing up together are issues such as sibling rivalry, jealousy, and basic differences in personality types. Sibling dynamics can be complicated when we’re young, and sometimes those dynamics carry through into adulthood.

As a result, family caregiving with siblings can be challenging. Each person has his or her own opinions, and when those opinions clash, it’s not always easy to come to a resolution that pleases everyone. Holding regular family meetings with specific parameters in place can be helpful. Try these tips from our Florida senior care experts at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care for successful family meetings – leading to more effective family caregiving.

  1. Where should you meet? Comfort is key, whether that means meeting in someone’s home, or a neutral location – a coffee shop, restaurant, park, library meeting room, etc. Choose a meeting space that is comfortable and one that has limited distractions and noise. If you can’t meet in person, utilize a platform such as Zoom to meet remotely.
  2. How should you begin? Before the first meeting, create an agenda, with each sibling’s input on what should be discussed. Share a copy in advance with everyone, and agree to follow the agenda, shelving any additional items that may arise until the next meeting.
  3. What rules should be in place? This will differ for each family, but in general, should include guidelines such as allowing each person the chance to be heard without judgment, using respectful language, and making it a safe place to openly share thoughts and feelings. And if you’re meeting remotely, it’s important to keep in mind that people often behave differently than when meeting in person, and to structure guidelines accordingly.
  4. What if you can’t agree? Compromise is key, as there often will be no one-size-fits-all solution to the issues being addressed. Agree to disagree at times, knowing that at the heart of the conversation is making life the best it can be for an elderly parent.
  5. What happens next? Document any decisions made during the meeting and share with each sibling so that everyone is on the same page. It’s also a good idea to schedule the next meeting while you’re all together, to adhere to a schedule of regular, ongoing conversations.

Know that throughout the challenges of providing care for an elderly parent, American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care’s professional referred care providers are on hand to serve as your partner in care, allowing you the opportunity to step away from caregiving tasks while knowing your parent is receiving high quality care.

To find out more about the many ways we can help, click on the location below that is nearest to you for additional information:

Reach out to us today to discover how Florida’s best referred care providers are helping seniors – and the families who love them – enjoy life to the fullest with exceptional in-home care services.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Help Seniors Have a Safe Thanksgiving Gathering During the Pandemic

Health and Wellness, All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips

Over the hills and through the woods to grandmother’s house we go. While this rhyme may describe an annual Thanksgiving ritual, this year, due to the pandemic, routines are in flux. With rising COVID cases in different regions of the county, it’s important for families to take precautions if they decide to spend the holidays together. Because seniors are at higher risk for complications from the coronavirus, both due to age and preexisting conditions, it’s critical that safety is at the forefront when planning a Thanksgiving gathering and other holiday celebrations this year.

Whether you and your family choose to celebrate virtually or with a smaller, in-person gathering, the Florida aging care experts at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care share the steps to take to ensure the day is special and enjoyed by all.

Virtual Thanksgiving

If you and your family determine that a virtual Thanksgiving is safest for everyone, there are still a variety of ways to mark the day and to make it special for everyone.

  • Plan the meal, cook, and dine “together”. A great way for grandparents and grandchildren to bond is to plan the meal together. Set up a call using Skype, FaceTime or Zoom, and make a list of favorite recipes, along with one or two new ideas. Then, on Thanksgiving, set a time to begin cooking “together.” Help younger children make a dish virtually by walking them through the steps. Take a break while everything cooks, and then come back together to enjoy the meal later in the day.
  • Send a care package. If shopping and cooking are challenging for an older loved one, make arrangements to have a local restaurant or meal service deliver a meal. Plan a time to “meet” for dinner, and enjoy the opportunity to share stories from past family gatherings.
  • Start a new tradition. Ask the children in the family to start the meal with a song, prayer or poem. Take turns sharing why you are grateful. Make a monetary donation as a family to a local organization. Create a special Thanksgiving toast. Make a Thanksgiving resolution, with each person citing something he or she would like to do or learn in the next year. Be creative and think about ways in which both younger and older members of the family can connect.

In-Person Thanksgiving

If it’s determined that Thanksgiving celebrations will occur in person, the CDC has several recommendations that can help everyone enjoy themselves and maintain safety.

  • Before traveling. Because adults 65 years of age and older are at greater risk for a severe case of COVID-19, it’s important for everyone who will be gathering to agree to safety precautions. This may include quarantining for up to two weeks prior to the arrival date, ensuring anyone who is having COVID symptoms or who has been around anyone who has tested positive for COVID not attend, and taking a PCR test.
  • Travel. Airports, train and bus stations, rest stops, and other public transportation sites are all places where there is a higher potential for exposure to the coronavirus. If you or your senior loved one must travel and be in these places, always wear a mask for the duration of your trip, maintain at least six feet of social distancing, consider wearing gloves when in contact with high-touch surfaces, and wash hands frequently.
  • Hosting the meal. Having the Thanksgiving meal outdoors with social distancing is the safest option. If gathering indoors, open several windows for ventilation, allow for social distancing or wear masks when in closer contact. Greet each other verbally and minimize gestures that promote close contact.
  • Food safety. Consider designating one person to serve food or sharable items like condiments, limiting the number of people touching serving utensils and containers.
  • Sanitizing. Set up several hand washing stations with soap, paper towels and hand sanitizer. Wash hands frequently during the gathering and before and after eating for at least 20 seconds. Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces throughout the day.

Whether meeting virtually or in person for Thanksgiving this year, American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care’s friendly and professional referred care providers are here to help seniors enjoy life to the fullest, both on Thanksgiving and each day of the year.

Let us help by spending quality time with a senior loved one, engaging in conversations, taking a walk at a local park or around the neighborhood, playing a game of cards, or trying a new hobby. In addition, we can also help with a variety of other services, such as planning and preparing nutritious meals, light housekeeping and laundry, personal assistance, and much more.

To learn more about the many ways our family of brands can help a senior you love, select the location nearest you for additional information:

Contact us today to learn how our referred care providers are helping Florida seniors live and thrive in the comfort and safety of home.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Learn About COPD and How to Help a Senior You Love Live with This Condition

Chronic Disease Care, All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips, Monthly Happenings,

COPD has moved to the forefront of health conversations lately in light of the pandemic, as lung disease causes enhanced susceptibility to serious complications from COVID-19; and with nearly 16 million Americans battling the disease, it’s important for all of us to understand the symptoms, treatment options, and how to best manage COPD.

November is COPD Awareness Month, the perfect opportunity for our Florida aging care specialists at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care to share the information seniors and their families need.

What Is COPD?
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive condition caused mainly by tobacco smoke, although air pollution and lung infections such as pneumonia can also lead to an increased risk for contracting the disease.

What Are the Symptoms of COPD?
Initially, symptoms may be so mild they may not even be detected, but as the disease progresses, the following signs become more severe:

  • Coughing, especially coughs that produce a lot of phlegm
  • Wheezing, squeaking, or whistling sound during breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Shortness of breath, exacerbated by physical activity

Additionally, someone with severe lung damage may also develop swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, reduced muscle endurance, and/or weight loss.

It’s imperative to see a doctor as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How Is COPD Treated?
While there’s no cure available for COPD, there are ways to slow the progression of the disease:

  • Most importantly, someone with COPD needs to quit smoking, and to avoid secondhand smoke and other pollutants.
  • Medications to ease symptoms, such as wheezing and coughing, may be prescribed.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation helps those with COPD learn better coping mechanisms, including how to conserve energy and recommended lifestyle changes.
  • Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed as well if blood oxygen levels drop.

As the experts in senior care throughout Florida, our referred care providers are available to help those with COPD live the best life possible. Let us help with accompanied transportation to medical appointments and procedures, encouragement to adhere to recommended exercise plans, meal planning and preparation, and the companionship seniors need to alleviate loneliness and isolation, which can lead to depression and other serious health concerns, especially for those battling a chronic disease such as COPD.

Reach out to us today for more information about our referred care providers and the difference we can make in the life of a senior you love.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Alzheimer's Wandering: How to Maintain Safety at Home

Alzheimer’s and Dementia, All Posts,

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, families typically have an abundance of questions about care, disease management and changes in behavior that can be expected. One of the most concerning behaviors that families may face is the tendency to wander. While not uncommon, Alzheimer’s wandering often occurs in the early to middle stages of the disease and can be challenging for family caregivers and place the individual with dementia in unsafe situations. While anyone with dementia is at risk to wander, often the behavior is brought about by:

  • Basic needs. Your loved one is hungry, thirsty or needs to use the bathroom.
  • Following past routines. He or she may be trying to go to work, to school or to the store.
  • Searching. Your loved one may be searching for something or someone.
  • Stress or fear. Wandering is often brought about as a reaction to stress, fear or nervousness.

To help prevent wandering, the Florida in-home care experts at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care recommend implementing a daily, structured routine, including regular meals, exercise, plenty of hydration and bathroom breaks. It’s also a helpful idea to keep a diary and note the time of day or any potential triggers that seem to proceed wandering. If a loved one feels disoriented or abandoned, provide calm reassurance that he or she is safe.
Other ways to ensure the safety of a loved one who may wander include:

  • Camouflage doors. Paint or wallpaper doors to match the surrounding walls, hang curtains, or conceal exits with folding barriers. Hang a “NO EXIT” or “DO NOT ENTER” sign on doors.
  • Install a security system or alarms on doors. A whole-house security system can be set up to chime when doors or windows are opened. Childproof covers on doorknobs and bells hung on doors can also help alert family caregivers to wandering.
  • Keep car keys out of sight. If the senior with dementia is no longer driving, be sure to keep car keys hidden and in a secure location.
  • Provide supervision. Having someone at home with the senior loved one is ideal. The professional care providers we refer are highly trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care and help provide families with peace of mind through compassionate care and enhanced safety.

Another important step for families to take is to have an emergency plan in place should their loved one wander.

  • Have a recent photo of your loved one on hand.
  • Keep a list of emergency numbers.
  • Alert neighbors and ask them to inform you if they see your loved one out alone.
  • Enroll your loved one a wandering response program.
  • Make a list of places the senior with dementia might go, including a former house, workplace or place of worship.
  • Place labels in the senior’s clothes, have him or her carry identification or wear a GPS device.

We know that Alzheimer’s and dementia impact each individual differently. To help meet the needs of local families, our referred care providers are experienced and trained in Alzheimer’s and dementia care and work to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of individuals in their care and reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s wandering. Whether implementing a structured, daily routine, engaging a loved one in reminiscing activities, helping prepare nutritious meals, assisting with personal care needs or a variety of other tasks, our referred care providers are available for a few hours each week, up to and including 24/7 live-in care.

To discover more about the ways our family of brands can help provide safety for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s, select the location nearest you:

Reach out to us anytime to learn more about the professional Florida home care that families have trusted since 1992.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Physical Therapy for Seniors: Helping Older Adults Remain Active

Health and Wellness, All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips

October is National Physical Therapy Month, and the in-home care companies Floridians trust – American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care, recommend helping the older adults in your life become more physically active (with doctor’s approval and exercise plan), and to engage the services of a physical therapist when warranted to improve quality of life and health.

Physical therapy is a great option for seniors who:

  • Are recovering from an accident, injury, or surgery, such as a fall or hip replacement. Physical therapy is a crucial component in recovery following hospitalization, helping seniors regain balance, flexibility, range of motion, strength, and endurance while reducing pain.
  • Have experienced a stroke. Physical therapy can help retrain the brain to utilize lost or compromised functionality, allowing seniors to regain use of muscles impacted by the stroke and increase independence.
  • Are enduring pain from conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Extension exercises to improve posture, weight-bearing exercises, aquatic therapy, use of hot packs and ice, and many other techniques can help minimize pain and reduce the risk for falls.
  • Struggle with incontinence. A physical therapist can teach seniors exercises for the specific muscles that control urination, train on appropriate hydration and restroom planning, and more.
  • Simply want to improve balance. Balance problems in seniors are common, for a variety of reasons, and can be strengthened through physical therapy services that boost the many bodily functions that work together for balance.

Trusted by Florida families since 1992, our referred care providers can help seniors requiring physical therapy services in a variety of ways, including transportation to PT appointments, providing motivation to follow prescribed exercise plans, preparing healthy meals, or even simply providing friendly companionship and conversation to make each day the best it can be.
Learn more about our family of brands and the many ways we can help a Florida senior in your life. Click the link below for the location nearest your loved one:

Contact us today for more information about our referred care providers and make tomorrow a brighter day for a senior you love!

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

The Importance of Flu Shots for Seniors

Health and Wellness, All Posts, Community Events, Family Caregiver Tips

For seniors aged 65 years and older, there’s never a good time to get the flu. And this year, that’s especially true. With coronavirus cases still on the rise, it’s more important than ever for seniors to take steps to protect their health. One way to do this is to plan on getting the seasonal flu vaccine.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, between 50-70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations can be attributed to people who are 65 years of age or older. With many hospitals still struggling to meet the demands of COVID-19 positive patients, it’s easy to see how adding flu-related hospitalizations could make an already tenuous situation worse.
Mark Thompson, an epidemiologist in the Influenza Division at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, states, "People who can avoid the flu will help reduce the burden on a U.S. health care system already overwhelmed by COVID-19.”

With this in mind, the Florida in-home care experts at American, Advocate, Douglas and Whitsyms In-Home Care provide the following three tips on the importance of getting a flu vaccine this year:

  1. Plan to get the vaccine early. Healthcare providers and many pharmacies offer the flu vaccine each year. Due to an anticipated increase in demand for the flu vaccine, it’s important to plan to get the vaccine as early as it’s available, which is typically September. This online resource provides information about local clinics that offer flu vaccines near you.
  2. Learn about the different types of flu vaccine. While the flu vaccine is approved for most people 6 months of age or older, there are different types of flu shots for specific age groups. Doctors typically recommend a high-dose vaccine or a vaccine made with adjuvant for anyone over the age of 65 years old.
  3. Be proactive and protect yourself. Because the immune system becomes weaker with age, it becomes difficult for the body to fight off infections like the flu, putting seniors at greater risk for serious complications and potential hospitalizations. Getting an annual flu shot is a proactive way to protect your health.

Flu shots for seniors are covered by Medicare and by most private insurance. For seniors who don’t have insurance, many pharmacies and clinics offer flu shots at very low cost.

A seasonal flu vaccine is an easy way to reduce or minimize the risk for the serious complications that can occur when older adults get the flu. Our experienced referred care providers can help provide transportation to ensure seniors are up-to-date on all of their vaccines, and can also help keep the home clean and sanitized and the refrigerator stocked with healthy food and snacks.

Discover more about the ways our family of brands can help promote optimum health for a senior you love, select the location nearest you:

Contact us any time for additional information on how our professional Florida Home Health Care Services can help keep seniors safe & healthy during Flu season and beyond.

State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661