All posts by Hillary Hollman

The Keys to Weight Loss Over 50

All Posts, Health and Wellness

Nearly one-third of the population in the United States is obese. This is a scary statistic, especially given the known health problems associated with being overweight, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even some cancers.

Adults age 40 and over make up more than 40% of that statistic, and are at a higher risk for becoming overweight because of changes in the body as it ages. Hormones play a big role in the development of body fat, and unfortunately for both men and women, our hormones change naturally as we age, and can result in putting on extra un-wanted pounds that can lead to major health concerns.

Blame Your Hormones

Whether you're a man or a woman, your hormones are going to make it easier to gain weight, and harder to lose weight as you age. Women will experience changes in estrogen levels during menopause that will decrease their resting metabolic rate. This means that they will burn less calories while at rest, which can lead to an in crease in body fat. This also means that any weight put on during or after menopause will be more difficult to lose.

Because menopause is a drastic and rapid change in women's hormones, body fat content and metabolism are affected more dramatically than in men. However, men still experience a big shift in their hormone balance as they age, with a decrease in the production of testosterone. This change is more gradual and can happen over more than a decade, and it results in less muscle mass, and a decrease in resting metabolic rate and calorie consumption during exercise. This means that the same exercises men performed when they were younger now burn fewer calories.

Weight loss over 50 is more difficult for women than men because men have more lean muscle than women, meaning even though both sexes tend to gain weight after 50, men can shed pounds faster and easier than women can. This can be disheartening for women that are trying to lose weight with a male partner, but just because it is more difficult, doesn't mean it is impossible, and because of the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight as we age, it is important to persevere.

Solutions for Weight Loss Over 50

It is important to let go of the idea that you are inevitably going to be heavier when you're older. Even though hormonal changes will make it more of a challenge, you can maintain a good weight and live and healthier lifestyle if you implement a healthy lifestyle and diet.

So what can you do?

Plain and simple, you will have to amp-up your exercise routine, eat less, and pay attention to what you eat. If you don't already have an exercise plan in place, get started on one and gradually increase your training until you are doing 45 minutes of cardio 4 times per week, and some form of strength training 3 times per week. An exercise plan like this will help you lose pounds, and also increase metabolism and muscle mass.

To lose weight, you will also need to eat less, consuming less calories than you are burning each day. This means amping up your activity level and eating less at the same time. Also pay attention to what you are eating - if you fill up on lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and whole grains, you will feel full and won't need to consume as many calories. Avoid eating calorie-dense foods such as processed and fried foods, and sweets, which are also lacking in nutrients and bad for your overall health. Try to avoid unnecessary snacking, especially at night when your metabolism is slowed down. Instead of snacking, drink a glass of water or hot herbal tea to satisfy hunger and quench thirst.

The best course you can take is to pay more attention to your diet, and to be more responsible when it comes to avoiding extra calories throughout the day. However, it is also important to make regular trips to your doctor as you age. Doctors should be checking men for abnormally low testosterone levels, and both men and women should get tested for resistance, which can occur as we age, and can result in elevated blood sugar and added abdominal fat.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Source: Melone, Linda. "The Best Ways to Lose Weight Over 50." Next Avenue. Mar 23, 16.

Tips for Communicating With Dementia Sufferers

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

Can you imagine not being able to understand what your loved ones are saying to you, or even recognize who they are?

Dementia and Alzheimer's takes a terrible toll on the mind, and thus it can make communicating very difficult. But it is important to remember that communicating with dementia sufferers can be frustrating and upsetting for both people involved, so it should be approached with love and care. But it is most important to recognize that even though your loved one might have a hard time understanding or recognizing you, that does not mean that they should be ignored. In fact, quite the opposite. Most dementia sufferers crave warm human contact, a light conversation, and a friendly, understanding smile.

Below are a few simple tips for communicating with dementia sufferers:

  1. Realize the severity of the situation. Unfortunately for people diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's, it will only get worse. Dementia is a severe disease that gets worse with time, making it harder and harder to communicate and to understand. It's important to recognize this from the start so you don't give up or get overly frustrated when things get tough.
  2. Avoid distractions when you're talking. Creating an environment where there are no distractions is ideal for communicating with dementia sufferers. This allows your loved one to focus all of their mental energy on the conversation without being distracted by things like TVs, cellphones ringing, or excessive background noise.
  3.  Speak clearly and calmly. Use your natural voice when you are talking to your loved one, and be sure to annunciate your words. Use warm, calming tones, but avoid "babytalk" or other condescending voices.
  4. Use people's names. Avoid pronouns like "he" or "she" in conversations. Instead, always refer to whomever you are speaking about by their proper name, such as "Cindy" rather than "she." Also be sure to use your name when you greet your loved one. Rather then saying, "hi, it's me!" say, "hi, it's me Cindy!"
  5. Keep the conversation simple. Talk about one thing at a time, and try to avoid long, rambling conversations that have multiple threads. Keep the conversation as clear and concise as possible.
  6. Nonverbal communication is key. Maintain eye contact, and smile when you are talking to your loved one. This will help them understand what you are saying, and it is also reassuring. Nonverbal communication such as a smile or a warm, understanding face might be the only way to communicate once the disease has progressed into its later stages, so it is good to make sure your loved one is receptive to the cues you are using.
  7. Be an active listener. If your loved one is saying something that you don't understand, stop them and politely ask for clarity instead of continuing without understanding what they are saying.
  8. Don't argue. Your conversations won't get very far if you are trying to correct every inaccuracy or misstatement that your loved one says. Let minor mistakes go, realizing that it is part of the the disease, and that by correcting them always, you might actually be confusing them more.
  9. Be patient. Give your loved one time to process what you say, especially after you ask a question. There is no need to get frustrated if they don't respond right away. Recognize that your conversations will take longer and move at a slower pace.
  10. There will be ups and downs. It is important to realize that your loved one will have good days and bad days, despite the progression of their dementia or Alzheimer's. Be patient with them and be there for them, even if it is just a reassuring hand grab or a smile.

Dementia and Alzheimer's are very serious mental diseases that can make the role of family caregiver very difficult. American In-Home Care recognizes that Alzheimer’s and dementia affects each person differently, meaning there is no one way to provide care. That is why we will work with you and your loved one to determine what services are most important for their safety, mental health and physical well-being. As experts in senior care, we refer care providers that can improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free, in-home consultation to discuss your care needs.

 

 

What is a Living Will and Healthcare Power of Attorney?

All Posts, Long Term Care Options

We have all heard stories about people who, because of a terrible accident, injury, or disease, become unable to make healthcare decisions for themselves. This is a tragic scenario because when unable to make these delicate decisions, they are often passed off to unknowing relatives, doctors, or sometimes even judges, who have no idea what your important personal preferences might be.

The truth is, the inability to make these decisions could happen suddenly, as in the event of an accident, or gradually, like when someone develops Alzheimer's or dementia, or another age-related illness. And it can happen to anyone.

So whether young or old, it is best to be prepared with a living will and a healthcare power of attorney to make sure that your wishes are followed.

Types of Healthcare Directives

There are two types of healthcare directives: a living will, and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. Healthcare directives are documents that let you specify your wishes about your healthcare, in the event that you can't speak for yourself. Both of these documents are important, and it is wise to prepare both. In some states, these two documents are combined into a single form called an advance directive.

Living Will

A living will is not the same as a conventional will or living trust that are used to leave property at death. It is simply a written document that has your statement about the type of health care that you want (or don't want) if you can no longer speak for yourself.

You can use your living will to say as much, or as little as you want about your healthcare preferences. It is up to you to decide the kind of care you would want, and to decide what you want to say about it in your living will.

Healthcare Power of Attorney 

A durable power of attorney for healthcare is another important document regarding your healthcare preferences. In this document, you simply choose and appoint someone that you trust to act as your healthcare agent in the event that you are incapacitated.

This person will make necessary health decisions for you, and will ensure that the doctors and other healthcare providers are carrying out the type of care you wish to receive.

Who Can Make Healthcare Documents?

You must be a legal adult to make a valid document directing your health care. You must also be of sound mind --meaning you are able to understand what the document means, what it contains, and how it works.

Lifespan of Healthcare Documents

When do my healthcare directives take effect?

Your living will and healthcare power of attorney will go into affect when a doctor has determined that you no longer have the capacity to make your own decisions. This happens when:

  • you are unable to understand what healthcare options are available to you, and what the consequences of these options are
  • you are unable to communicate (written, verbally, or with gestures) your wishes for care

What this all means is that if you can't express your health care wishes for any reason, your documents will spring immediately into effect. However, if there is any question about your ability to understand your treatment choices, or to communicate clearly, your doctor will work with your self-appointed healthcare agent to decide if it is time for your healthcare directives to go into effect.

It is important to remember that you will always be able to choose your own medical care if you have the ability to do so. Your healthcare directives will never override your communicated wishes. And even when you are no longer capable of making your own decisions, your healthcare agent must always act in your best interests and try to follow any wishes you've expressed in your living will.

When do my healthcare directives end?

Your written healthcare wishes remain effective as long as you are alive, unless you personally revoke them, or a court steps in to revoke them. Here are some specifics:

  • You revoke your documents: you can change or cancel your documents at any time, just be sure that your doctors and your healthcare agent is aware of the changes or cancelation
  • You get a divorce: A divorce doesn't change the written directions of your living will, however if you named your spouse as your healthcare agent in your power of attorney of healthcare, their rights will be revoked in most states, and you need to name a new agent. Sometimes it is easier to create new written documents to reflect your new agent rather than change existing ones.
  • You pass away: For the most part, your healthcare directives are no longer necessary after you pass away. The only reason they would remain effective for a limited time would be so your healthcare agent could oversee the disposition of your body, which could include an autopsy or organ donation.
  • A court invalidates your document or revokes your agent's authority: Most of the time, healthcare directives are not a matter for the court. However, if someone believes that did not have the mental capacity to create a valid legal document, the matter could be brought before a judge to decide. Your documents could also be invalidated if you failed to meet your state's requirements, such as notarizing in front of a witness. If someone believes that your healthcare agent is not acting in your best interest, the matter will be brought to court and an investigation into their behavior will follow. If their authority is revoked, the power will go to the first alternate agent that you have listed in your document. If you have not listed any, or if your document is invalidated, a conservator or guardian will be appointed to make care decisions for you.

If you or an aging loved one have not created your healthcare directives, take some time to think about your wishes for healthcare, and find a lawyer who can help you put them down into your formal documents. It is always best to be prepared.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Source: Irving, Shae "Living Wills and Power of Attorney for Healthcare: An Overview." Nolo.

 

Home Sweet Home: Elderly Home Safety Modifications

All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips, Long Term Care Options

Home is where the heart is. People become very attached to their homes, and for good reason: there are many special memories made there, it is comfortable, safe, familiar, and meaningful.

That is why so many seniors are choosing to age in place; it allows them to retain their freedom, flexibility and independence in the comfort and familiar surroundings of their own home. In fact, 4 out of 5 seniors believe their current home is where they will always live. But as our loved ones age, getting around the home and performing many household tasks starts to become more and more difficult, raising the concern of whether it is safe for them to live at home.

We want our loved ones to remain in the homes they love, but we also worry about their safety. In fact, 75% of adult children think about their parent's ability to live independently as they get older. But it is possible for seniors to safely and independently age at home, it just requires some elderly home safety modifications to the house and to their routine. Take some time to go through your loved one's home, making note of any areas that cause safety concern, and then proactively make any modifications, creating a safe environment for your loved one to age happily.

Bedroom

The most important thing to look for in the bedroom is whether your loved one can get in and out of the bed safely and comfortably, and access his or her essentials from the bed. First ask yourself if your loved one can even get into and out of the bed on their own. If not, patient lifts and slings to get in and out of bed are great options, as well as grab bars or "ladders" to help them lower down into the bed, or sit up while in bed on their own. If their condition necessitates it, make sure there is room for a hospital bed in the room.

Once your loved one is safely into the bed, you want to make sure that they can access necessities from their bed to avoid having to get up and down often. Make sure there is a light switch that they can reach from bed (or try clap on lights), and have the telephone and any emergency alert systems set up next to the bed. Have a remote control next to the bed for any fans in the room, or to control the air/heat. Also place any walking aides near the bed so they can reach them immediately when they stand up.

The last thing to consider is proximity to a bathroom. If they have to get up to go in the middle of the night, be sure that there are night lights in both the bedroom and bathroom so they lower the risk of tripping and falling. If there is not a bathroom nearby, consider the possibility of a bedside commode.

Bathroom

The goal in the bathroom is to create barrier-free access to all of the necessary features - the toilet, sink, tub, etc. Transfer benches, safety frames for the toilet, grab bars for the shower, and safety steps for the bathtub are all appliances or add-ons that you can install in your loved one's bathroom for their safety and ease. Also be sure that there are good non-slip bath mats on the floors, and you could consider a heated towel rack with an automatic off function to make sure your loved one is warm and comfortable.

Be sure that there is a bathroom on every floor of the house to make it easier for your loved one to access, and to avoid the risk of falling while hurriedly going up or down the stairs to reach one. Also have a constant source of light

Kitchen

The kitchen can be a dangerous place as we age, so you should spend some time observing your loved one to make sure that they are able to operate everything properly and safely. There might come a time when you need to speak with them about kitchen safety, and might need to have a family or professional care provider come into their home to help with cooking, preparing meals, and cleaning the kitchen.

To make their kitchen experience easier and safer, you can check to make sure that all smoke detectors are working properly, and that the kitchen is arranged so your loved one can easily reach groceries, appliances and utensils that they use often. You can also purchase non-slip and anti-fatigue kitchen mats for the floor, and other useful items such as jar and bottle openers, jug-pourers, and food organizers to help make kitchen tasks easier for your loved one.

Staircases

Stairs are the dreaded enemy to aging at home because of the ever-present risk of falling. So how can you be sure your loved one can safely move from one story to the next? The best options are installing an elevator in the home, or putting a stair lift on all of the staircases in the home. There are straight-rail stairlifts, and curve-rail stairlifts so that you can put one on any staircase, no matter the shape. But if lifts aren't necessary, be sure that there are handrails on both sides of the stairs, and that the top and bottom of the staircase is clearly marked. Also if the stairs are wooden, be sure to place a carpet runner down the length of the stairs to reduce the risk of slipping.

If there are stairs to the entrance of the house, you will want to consider a mobility ramp or platform lift for easy access. There are many different kind of ramps so you can find one to suit the needs of your loved one and their mobility as they age. For example, there are modular ramps, folding ramps, light ramps, and ramp rentals. Platform lifts are another option for getting up outdoor stairs, and they can be slightly less obtrusive than a ramp. You should also make sure that there is good lighting near any entrances or exits to the home that always stays on.

Living Room

The living room might seem like safe haven, but there are a few modifications that you can make to reduce the risk of accidents, and create a more comfortable space for your aging loved ones. Clear the area of any throw rugs to reduce the risk of tripping and falling, and be sure any area rugs are securely fastened down. Also make sure the room is free of clutter and debris, and that electrical cords are out of the way.

Power Lift chairs are great addition to the living room, making it easy and body-friendly to get in and out of the comfy recliner. Clap on, or remote controlled lights and other appliances are also useful and can make life easier. Be sure to create a place in the room where all remotes and electronics are stored to avoid any confusion. You could get a nice bowl or tray, and designate it as the place to put remotes and other similar items.

Even with these elderly home safety modifications, there might come a time when you realize that your loved one(s) need assistance to age at home. At American In-Home Care, we always refer compassionate and qualified care providers that can help you and your loved ones feel safe and supported at home. The care providers we refer can help with a wide variety of services, making it easy to find someone that is the right fit for your specific care needs. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free, in-home consultation.

 

Stimulating Activities for Alzheimer's Patients

All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Dementia can cause seniors to withdraw from friends, family and activities. But maintaining those relationships and interests reduces the effects of severe cognitive impairment, leading to a better quality of life.

The most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease impairs memory, thinking and behavior. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s accounts for 50-80% of dementia cases. While memory loss may start out mild in early stages, the disease worsens over time. Eventually, it can restrict a person’s ability to carry on a conversation or even respond to people or surroundings.

Activities Bring Pleasure to People With Alzheimer’s

Keeping people active in hobbies and interests that gave them pleasure in the past is important after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Those activities help:

  • Stir memories
  • Foster emotional connections with others
  • Encourage self-expression
  • Lessen the anxiety and irritability that Alzheimer’s may bring
  • Make people with Alzheimer’s feel more engaged with life

What activities best suit people with Alzheimer’s? That depends on the individual. As AARP.org describes, activities for Alzheimer's should be stimulating and meaningful, not just done to fill time. Consider interests they had in the past, knowing that some activities may need to be modified for safety or practicality. Keep in mind that Alzheimer’s affects behavior and senses in addition to memory. So, activities that a person once enjoyed may become overwhelming or even frustrating now.

Suggested Activities for Alzheimer’s Patients

Here are 10 activities to try with your loved one. Certain activities may work better at different times of day. Understand that the person’s level of interest or involvement may decline as Alzheimer’s progresses.

  1. Sing songs or play music.
  2. Do arts and crafts, such as painting or knitting. Keep tools and patterns simple.
  3. Organize household or office items, particularly if the person used to take pleasure in organizational tasks.
  4. Clean around the house. Sweep the patio, wipe the table, fold towels or try other household tasks that help the person feel a sense of accomplishment.
  5. Tend the garden or visit a botanical garden.
  6. Read the newspaper.
  7. Look at books the person used to enjoy.
  8. Cook or bake simple recipes together.
  9. Work on puzzles.
  10. Watch family videos.

Take a Supportive, Flexible Approach

If your loved one resists an activity, take a break. You can try again later, or ask your loved one how the activity can be changed to make it more enjoyable for them.

Remember to concentrate on the process of an activity and not the results. It does not matter if you never get the puzzle put together. What matters is that your loved one enjoyed the time spent on it and felt useful.

American In-Home Care refers care providers that specialize in Alzheimer's and dementia care, providing your loved one with compassionate, stimulating care specific to memory loss. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 for more information, or to schedule your free in-home consultation.

This article previously appeared on Alzheimers.net 

Senior Nutrition: The Real Brain Foods

All Posts, Health and Wellness

We've heard about eating right for our heart, but what about eating right for our brain? Healthy eating and a balanced diet has been shown to have many benefits, such as lowering risk for heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, but there is also increasing evidence that certain foods and proper senior nutrition can help lower the risk for developing Alzheimer's and dementia.

Alzheimer's disease and dementia are some of the most notable conditions that we wish to prevent, or to lower our risk as we age, and as there is increasing evidence that certain foods can actually lower our risk for these conditions. Take a look at the list of foods below that have been shown to increase brain function and lower the risk of Alzheimer's, and start incorporating these brain foods into your regular diet.

1. Oils

Oils are a great source of Vitamin E and healthy fats, which are essential to the proper functioning of your brain. A potent antioxidant, vitamin E may help protect neurons or nerve cells. In Alzheimer’s disease, neurons in certain parts of the brain start to die, which jump-starts the cascade of events leading to cognitive deterioration. So beefing up your Vitamin E intake now might help stop this process later.

Coconut Oil and Olive Oil are two of the best natural oils for your body and your brain, and can be added into your diet through salad dressings, baking, and as a base for sautéing foods. Avocado Oil, Almond Oil, and Sesame Oil are also great to use and are packed with healthy Vitamin E and omega-3. However, stay away from Corn Oil and Soybean Oil, as they are rich in omega-6, which can cause inflammation in excess.

2. Fish

Salmon, mackerel, tuna, and other fish are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The good news is that DHA has also been shown to be beneficial to brain health because it seems to be very important to the normal functioning of brain neurons.

So adding fish to your diet is a great way to take care of your brain and your heart, and might also help you eat less red meat in your diet, as it is packed with saturated fats which can aid in clogging arteries. However, try to stay away from farm-raised salmon, shark, Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, American Eel, Chilean Sea Bass, and imported shrimp due to high mercury content, antibiotics, and unsustainable fishing practices.

3. Dark green, leafy vegetables

Kale, collard greens, spinach, and broccoli are good sources of vitamin E and folate. For example, one cup of raw spinach has 15% of your daily intake of vitamin E, and 1/2 a cup of cooked spinach has 25% of your daily intake.

Exactly how folate may protect the brain is unclear, but it may be by lowering levels of an amino acid known as homocysteine in the blood. High levels of homocysteine may trigger the death of nerve cells in the brain, but folic acid helps break down homocysteine levels. High homocysteine levels have also been linked to an increased risk for heart disease.

4. Avocado

Good news for all the avocado lovers out there: this creamy treat is also a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin E. Foods rich in vitamin E are associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Avocados are also packed with Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and overall health, and healthy fats.

Avocados can be a great addition to any meal, and can be added to smoothies, used on top of salads or omelettes, or used as a spread on whole grain toasts for a morning treat.

5. Seeds

Seeds, including sunflower seeds, are also good sources of vitamin E. One ounce of dry-roasted sunflower seeds contains 30% of your recommended daily intake. Chia seeds, flax seeds, and pumpkin seeds are all great sources of vitamin E, and can be sprinkled on top of your salad, eaten as a snack, or added to baked goods to give your brain a boost.

6. Almonds and almond butter

Although both are high in fat, almonds and almond butter are a source of healthy fats, necessary for a healthy brain and heart, and they are also packed with vitamin E. There has been some very good research that diets that are high in healthy fats, low in saturated fat and trans fats, and rich in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and nuts are good for the brain and the heart.

Both nuts and nut butters may help keep the heart and brain healthy and functioning properly. Other good choices are cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts.

7. Red Wine 

Research shows that drinking in moderation is heart healthy, and can be good for your brain too, potentially lowering the risk for Alzheimer's. Moderation is considered one daily drink for women, and two for men.

Alcohol relaxes the blood vessels and reduces the blood's ability to clot, making it a useful preventative method for heart disease. Less is known about how red wine and alcohol work to lower the risk of Alzheimer's, as it is difficult to pinpoint alcohol as the contributing factor, rather than other healthy lifestyle choices.

8. Berries

The latest research presented at the National Meeting of the American Chemical Society in Boston found that blueberries, strawberries, and acai berries may help slow down age-related cognitive decline by preserving the brain’s mechanism to get rid of toxic proteins, which wanes with age.

Berries can be added to smoothies and salads, eaten alone as a snack, and also make a great dessert mixed with nuts and coconut flakes.

9. Whole Grains

Fiber-rich whole grains are important to brain health, and can include whole wheat, whole oatmeal, bulgar, brown rice, buckwheat, whole grain barley, whole rye, and quinoa. Whole grains are an integral part of the Mediterranean diet, which is also loaded with fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, olive oil, and wine. Research out of Columbia University Medical Center in New York City shows that a Mediterranean diet may be linked to lower risk of mild cognitive impairment that can lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

This type of diet may reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and other vascular risk factors such as high blood pressure—all of which may have a role in increasing risk for brain and heart diseases.

10. Exercise

No, you can't eat exercise. But there is substantial evidence that regular exercise is crucial to staving off many age-related conditions, including Alzheimer's. Setting up an exercise regimen, and eating a diet rich in healthy oils, fruits, vegetables, fish, whole grains, and nuts will go a long way in lowering your risk for developing Alzheimer's or dementia, and will help you feel energized, fit and fulfilled.

American In-Home Care always refers qualified, credentialed, screened, care providers that can assist with a wide variety of services in-home or in facilities, including diet monitoring, meal preparation, and grocery shopping. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free consultation to assess your in-home care needs, and determine which care options are right for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do I Need Respite Care?

All Posts, Long Term Care Options

As we age, most people wish to remain in their own homes for a number of reasons. Being home is familiar and comfortable, and can decrease the physical, mental, and financial stress of moving into a facility. However, remaining at home can start to cause safety concerns if mental and physical health conditions are not managed or monitored properly.

A common option when you decide that your aging loved one needs assistance to stay at home is to take on the role of caregiver yourself, either by moving in with your parents, or having them move in with you. This can be a situation that takes time to adjust to, and can even cause family tension. This is why it is important to talk openly to your parents or loved one about issues such as needs, expectations, and setting boundaries.

As the sole family caregiver, it is easy to become overburdened by the added stress and responsibilities of caregiving duties, in addition to your own personal and professional duties. It is important to be aware of your limitations, and to take time for yourself to avoid caregiver burnout, and to recognize when it is time to seek professional aid, which can come in the form of Respite Care.

What is Respite Care?

Respite Care is all about taking care of the caregiver, since providing care for an elderly or ill loved one can start to take a mental and physical toll on your well-being. Respite Care offers family caregivers temporary relief from the physical and emotional burdens of caregiving, reducing stress and preserving family stability. Respite Care is an important part of an overall home care strategy, and can offer services in the home, or a variety of other settings.

  • In-Home Respite
    • A referred care provider can be brought into the home for a specified period of time to provide oversight and care for your loved one, allowing you to leave the home and/or have personal time to take care of your own needs.
  • Alzheimer’s Respite
    • Respite is especially important when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, as it can be a physically and mentally draining task. By having a Respite care provider who specializes in Alzheimer's Care, you can take a break to give you time for your own duties, so you can return refreshed and healthy.
  • Hospital Support
    • Qualified care providers can perform additional support during a stay at the hospital, giving your loved one constant care and attention during some, or all, of their stay, and keeping family members up-to-date.
  • Overnight
    • Sometimes you need a temporary care provider to stay with your loved one overnight if you’re in need of a good night’s sleep, or need to travel. With overnight Respite Care, your loved one will be safely looked after, ensuring safety and companionship while you’re away.
  • Travel Care
    • If you are planning a trip with your loved one and need extra assistance during your travels, a travel care provider can travel with you and perform care. They will be discreet and compassionate, allowing your family to enjoy the trip and each other’s company, while keeping your loved one safe and properly looked after.

When Should You Consider Respite Care?

There are certain times that having the assistance of a certified and professional care provider can be invaluable. There are certain situations where you should always seek professional assistance for the safety of both you and your loved one, but there will also be less specific times when you feel like you need help or need a break, and it is important to listen to that, and not be afraid or hesitant to seek out help. You should consider Respite Care when:

  • You need to travel overnight for business or pleasure (it is important to take personal vacations!)
  • Your elderly parent or loved one needs to transfer from one location to another, or is staying somewhere for an extended period of time (like a surgery center, rehab facility, hospital, etc).
  • Help is needed with daily activities of living, or skilled care following a hospitalization, surgery, injury, or illness.
  • Your parent or loved one wants to be at home while undergoing intense medical treatment, such as chemotherapy.
  • You feel mentally or physically exhausted, and need time for yourself to rest or perform personal duties.

At American In-Home Care, we always refer qualified, screened, care providers that can assist you with your Respite Care needs. Contact a Client Care Liaison at any time to set up a free assessment of your in-home care needs; they can provide you with additional information about which care options are right for you and your family. We are available to take calls 24/7 at 1-844-505-0004.

Gifts For Alzheimer's Patients

All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Alzheimers CareWith over 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease, and more than 10 million people providing care for them, it is highly likely that you will be buying gifts for a loved one with Alzheimer's, or someone that has been touched by the disease, this holiday season or at some other time. As such, it is important to know what gifts are appropriate - gifts that can help ease stress, confusion, and depression, and actually aid the memories of those suffering.

The key is to look for gifts that your loved one is interested in, and that will keep them actively engaged and at ease. Gifts for Alzheimer's patients should be fun, yet stimulating in some way - be it cognitive stimulation, sensory stimulation, or physical stimulation. Special DVDs can be a good alternative to television, and games and puzzles can not only be fun and interactive, but can help you keep tabs on how your loved one's disease is progressing.

Keep in mind that certain gifts, like new electronics, might seem like a fun or helpful gift, but could actually cause added stress or embarrassment for an Alzheimer's patient because it creates another thing to be remembered. If you decide you want to give a tech gift or electronic, be sure to go over the instructions with your loved one slowly and more than once, so that they have a good understanding,  and keep a copy of the instructions for yourself.

Gifts for Alzheimer's Patients

1. Early Stage: When in the Early Stage of Alzheimer's, people can still live healthy, active lives for the most part, and might only notice subtle changes in their memory and body. For these individuals, gifts that aid cognitive stimulation are beneficial, and can include some of the following:

  • Magnetic reminder pads for the refrigerator
  • Labeled baskets or file folders to keep documents and other misc. items
  • Designated hanger or jar for keys
  • Family calendar with important dates written in - birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, etc.
  • Dial-by-picture telephone system
  • Automated pill dispenser
  • Night light for bedroom or bathroom
  • Crossword puzzles related to 20th Century events or history
  • "Spot the difference" photo games
  • Large playing cards or index cards
  • Puzzles with places they have gone, or art they enjoy
  • Stimulating DVDs, such as nature or history documentaries
  • "Classics" CD from their favorite musician
  • A collection of their favorite movies
  • Plan a special outing - go to a play, a movie, a museum, shopping with family and friends
  • Do fun hands-on activities together such as painting or scrapbooking

2. Middle/Late Stage: People in the later stages of Alzheimer's generally need assistance with most of their daily activities as their state continues to deteriorate. Gifts that provide sensory stimulation, and that bring back pleasant memories are beneficial for individuals suffering from moderate or late stage Alzheimer's, such as:

  • Scented lotions in their favorite scent
  • A bathrobe or slippers in their favorite color
  • A warm throw blanket
  • Comfortable clothes that are easy to put on and take off, and easy to wash - such as sweats, knits, and wrinkle-free sleeping garments
  • A CD or compilation of their favorite songs or musicians
  • Family photo album with pictures of every family member, and their name
  • An illustrated family tree
  • Puzzles of favorite places or art works
  • Games - color stimulation, size and shape games, brain-game books
  • Color-by-number activities
  • Nature or animal DVDs or documentaries
  • Stress ball, or sensory hand-held toys
  • Do fun hands-on activities together such as painting or scrapbooking

Gifts for Family Caregivers 

Caring for an Alzheimer's patient, especially if it is a loved one, can be extremely taxing on a person, both physically and mentally, and can often lead to caregiver depression. To avoid this, truly the best gift you can give an Alzheimer's or dementia caregiver is the gift of respite care. By having someone else relieve caregiving duties temporarily, you will help the family caregiver reduce stress and have a necessary and deserved break over the holiday season.

  • Gift certificates - to salons or spas, favorite restaurants or hotels, favorite clothing stores, maid or lawn services, personal wellbeing such as yoga or gym membership, or technology support
  • Books - informational about caregiving and Alzheimer's disease, and also purely fun, entertaining books from a genre that you know the caregiver enjoys
  • TIVO or DVR subscription - allows the caregiver to record their favorite shows and movies on television that they might miss due to caregiving duties
  • Respite Care - finding a company that can refer a professional, qualified, and compassionate respite care provider to temporarily relieve the family caregiver of their duties is probably the most valued gift you can give. It gives your caregiver the gift of personal time and rest.

American In-Home Care always refers qualified, credentialed, screened, care providers that can assist with a wide variety of services in-home or in facilities. The care providers we refer to perform Respite Care can assist with overnight respite, in-home respite, Alzheimer's respite, travel care, and a number of other services to assist with daily activities. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free consultation to assess your care needs.

Long Term Retirement Planning

All Posts, Long Term Care Options

The number of Americans needing long term care is expected to double in the next 30 years, putting a increased financial and emotional burden on many families. This burden will be felt the most by Baby Boomers who are facing retirement themselves, while also caring for elderly parents and maintaining relationships with grown children of their own.

As it is becoming less common for children to assume the sole caregiving responsibility for their parents, it is even more crucial to be proactive and focus on long term retirement planning at an earlier age.

So what are the steps to successfully plan for long term retirement?

1. Location Matters

As a healthy, recent retiree, or an adult planning for retirement, it is important to think about where you are living. If you have a large, expensive house in a largely car-dependent city or neighborhood, you might want to consider downsizing into an apartment, condo, or small home that is in a pedestrian friendly location near your family and friends. Making the change now will allow you to limit unnecessary expenses, and ensure that you will be able to age at home as long as possible.

According to a UBS survey, 89 percent of participants said that while they would prefer to stay in their current home, they still find moving to a smaller home vastly more preferable than moving into a Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility.

2. Get Long Term Care Insurance

If aging in your home is what you want, an important step in your retirement planning should be finding an insurance policy that covers that kind of care. It is never too early to be searching for a Long Term Care Insurance policy that suits your needs, as the younger and healthier you are, the cheaper the policies are.

3. Consider The Tradeoffs

It is natural for a parent or grandparent to want to help their children and grandchildren with money - mortgages, college tuition, etc. However, most of us are not wealthy enough to not have to make tough financial decisions sometimes. That same money could be put away in preparation for your long term care needs, which would prevent financial hardships and relationship strains on your children later on.

If you do end up needing to rely on your children for care later in life, it could be a source of conflict between siblings on how to split care responsibilities and payments.

4. Talk To An Expert

Talking to a professional with your entire family present is an important step for long term retirement planning. It allows you to determine what is important to you, and how to manage your retirement and care needs so that the whole family is on the same page, preventing strife later on.

Find a financial advisor or lawyer who specializes in wealth transfer and estate planning, and who is willing to build  relationship with you so they can adapt as your needs change over time.

Once you have determined that either you or your parents need assistance to continue to age at home, one of our Client Care Liaisons can set up a free consultation to determine your in-home care needs, and refer a care provider that is right for your family. Contact us Toll Free at 1-844-505-0004.

 

 

Maximizing Social Security Benefits Under New Rule

All Posts, Long Term Care Options,

By Laurence J. Kotlikoff, Social Security expert and Boston University economist (This article previously appeared on NextAvenue.org)

Here are 12 tips for maximizing Social Security benefits under the new rule.

The 2015 Budget dramatically changed Social Security claiming options. ​Every day, I get a host of emails from the victims of these changes. Most are like my 64-year-old secretary, who I wrote about last week.

Thanks to Congress and the President, she lost her ability at age 66 to do three things: a) get a child benefit for her severely disabled child, b) a get spousal benefit for her non-working husband who has had to stay home and care for their child for years and c) file for her retirement benefit, immediately suspend it (with the strategy known as “file and suspend“) and wait until 70 to collect her highest possible retirement benefit.

The most important means to maximize your lifetime benefits was, and remains, to try to start benefits only after they have stopped growing.

What’s her new best strategy?

Is it to keep working to forgo getting her son and husband benefits for four years and take her own retirement benefit at 70? This strategy entails her continuing to work 80 hours of week at two jobs to keep the family living at its decidedly lower-income living standard.

Or is it to take her own retirement benefit at 66 and thereby activate benefits for her son and husband? Doing so means her own retirement benefit will be 26 percent smaller for the rest of her life. That option provides the immediate wherewithal (the money) to consider working one rather than two jobs from age 66, but at the price of a permanently lower long-term living standard.

Surprising, Rushed Social Security Changes

This is the kind of outcome that the AARP — the huge nonprofit that is supposed to protect the elderly — was applauding in emailing its tens of millions of members and telling them to actively congratulate their Congressmen and Congresswomen for supporting the change in the law. I wrote about this in a recent Forbes column.

This is the kind of outcome that the small-minded, ill-informed Congressional staffers who changed Social Security rules are now cheering. They made their draconian changes in a back room, with no public hearings, knowing that the changes would be rushed to a vote before Congress. They made these changes knowing that these changes would take benefits away from millions of low- and middle-income people.

But if the new Social Security benefit rules are here for good, and they certainly seem to be, what should people do?

Here are 12 secrets to maximizing your lifetime Social Security benefits under the new rules:

1. The most important means to maximize your lifetime benefits was, and remains, to try to start benefits only after they have stopped growing. For a high earning 60-year-old couple, for example, their inability to utilize the file and suspend strategy costs them about $50,000. But if they wait until 70 to collect their retirement benefits, they will still be up $350,000 compared to taking their retirement benefits at 62. That’s the power of being able to wait to collect a 76 percent greater check every month from age 70 through 100 if you live that long. As a result of this new law, this couple loses roughly $50,000 out of the $400,000 they would have previously received from optimizing. That is, the budget legislation cost them 12.5 percent of their remaining lifetime benefits.

The hit to my secretary if she takes her retirement benefit at 66, which appears likely, is roughly twice as large.

So this supposed “progressive” policy change that “eliminated loopholes” is nothing of the sort. It will force low- and middle-income households to file for their retirement benefits early and leave them with permanently lower old-age living standards.

2. If you are married, you may still qualify to use the file and suspend strategy.Under this strategy, a) one spouse files and suspends their retirement benefit at 66 and waits until 70 to restart that benefit at its highest possible value while b) the other spouse files just for a spousal benefit at Full Retirement Age and waits until 70 to take his or her retirement benefit.

Under the new law, use of the file and suspend strategy is highly restricted. The spouse who is going to file and suspend has to have been born no later than May 1, 1950, and submit their request to file and suspend on or before April 29, 2016, so Social Security has time to process their application. This reflects the six-month grandfathering window including in the 2015 Budget.

The spouse who wants to take their full spousal benefit by itself and let their own retirement benefit grow must be born no later than Jan. 1, 1954. The grandfathering rule here is you need to be 62 by the end of the year, but Social Security treats someone whose birthday is on the first of a month as having changed their age on the last day of the prior month.

So if your spouse does file and suspend before this witching second, you better not turn 62 (the way you record your own birthday) even a nanosecond after midnight, Jan. 1, 2016.

3. If you are divorced (after having been married for 10 or more years) and turn 62 no later than Jan. 1, 2016, you can still file just for your divorce(e) spousal benefit at full retirement age and wait until 70 to collect your own retirement benefit.

4. If you are married and you and your spouse are more than four years apart in age, but the younger of the two of you will reach 62 by the end of this year, that younger spouse is still free to file just for a full spousal benefit when he or she reaches Full Retirement Age and still let his or her retirement benefit grow through age 70. This is possible, because the older spouse will be taking retirement benefits by then.

5. If you are married and reach 62 no later than Jan. 1, 2016 and your older spouse won’t reach 66 by May 1, 2016, your older spouse can file for a retirement benefit before age 70 but after you reach Full Retirement Age, permitting you to take just your spousal benefit at that point and then wait until 70 to collect your own retirement benefit.

Whether this is optimal is something only the most precise commercial software can calculate. Make sure that the software program you use has been fully updated since the legislation has passed.

6. Suppose you are a married younger spouse and that you were born after Jan. 1, 1954 and that your spouse was born after May 1, 1950. Assume you have very low earnings relative to your spouse so that your spousal benefit will exceed your own retirement benefit even if you wait until 70 to collect it. In this case, you and your spouse have a tricky problem.

Your spouse can file for their retirement benefit before reaching 70, say, at 68. But doing so comes at a price of permanently reduced retirement benefits and a permanently lower widow’s benefits for you if your spouse dies before you and after age 68. On the other hand, by taking their retirement benefit earlier than 70, your spouse can permit you to take your spousal benefit sooner than would otherwise be the case. Recall, however, that if you take your spousal benefit before full retirement age, it will be permanently reduced.

One option, which is likely the best in many cases, is for you to take your own retirement benefit when you reach Full Retirement Age and then take your excess spousal benefit when your spouse reaches age 70 and take their retirement benefit.

But if your spouse has a relatively low maximum age of life, it may be better for you to take your retirement benefit as early as age 62 and have your spouse take their retirement benefit somewhat before age 70 at which point you take your excess spousal benefit. Taking the excess spousal benefit (the difference between your full spousal benefit and your own retirement benefit) early (before full retirement age) will permanently reduce it. But if you are going to be flipping onto a widow’s benefit fairly early in life, getting a bird in the hand may be worth it.

If the above sounds even more complex than under the old system, you’re right: it is. The new law has made maximizing your Social Security via the correct collection strategies even more complex for many couples.

7. If you took your retirement benefit before Full Retirement Age, were born after Jan. 1 and were hoping to suspend it at full retirement age, you can still suspend your retirement benefit and restart it at 70 at what is now a 32 percent larger value. But you can’t provide your spouse or your ex-spouse or your young or disabled children any benefits based on your account during the years that you keep your retirement benefit in suspension.

For example, you may have filed for your retirement benefit last year, say, at age 62 to activate a child benefit for your disabled child and a child-in-care spousal benefit for your spouse who is caring for your child. You may have done so knowing that at Full Retirement Age you could suspend your own retirement benefit and restart it at a 32 percent higher at 70 without terminating your child’s disabled child benefit and your spouse’s child in care spousal benefit during the suspension period. But Congress and the President just took that option away. When you reach Full Retirement Age, if you suspend, both the child and child-in-care spousal benefit will stop until you restart your retirement benefit. Consequently, the advantage of this start-stop-start strategy has been greatly reduced.

Still, it may be best to forego those auxiliary benefits for four years in order to have a permanently higher retirement benefit (and when you die, provide a permanently higher widow(er) benefit), starting at 70.

8. If you are single or divorced before 10 years and you aren’t going to get married, the new law doesn’t change any of your options except for one. If you don’t reach 66 until after May 1, 2016, but you still suspend your retirement benefit, you will no longer be able to ask to receive all your suspended benefits in a single lump sum check if, for example, you are diagnosed with a terminal disease. This makes suspending your benefit in order to raise it by restarting it at 70 a riskier option.

9. If you are widowed, nothing has changed with respect to your options to maximize your lifetime Social Security benefits. Your best strategy will be to either take your widows benefit at 60 (or 50 if you are collecting disability) and start your own retirement benefit at 70 (or, if widowed, at Full Retirement Age, but you can then suspend it until 70) or take your retirement benefit at 62 and take your widow(er) benefit at Full Retirement Age or earlier in the case your deceased spouse took their own retirement benefit early.

10. If you are collecting disability benefits, you weren’t hurt as badly by the new law. That’s because thanks to another midnight massacre of Social Security benefits, you weren’t able to collect a full spousal benefit off you spouse’s work record in any case. On the other hand, if your spouse turns 62 by or on Jan. 1, 2016, he or she can collect just a full spousal benefit from Full Retirement Age through 70 while letting the retirement benefit grow. That is, the spouse, too, is grandfathered.

11. If you are disabled and were expecting to collect excess spousal benefits from your spouse during years that their retirement benefit is in suspension,you can kiss those benefits goodbye unless your spouse was born on or before May 1, 1950 and files and suspends. If your spouse is a minute too young to meet that deadline and suspends after reaching Full Retirement Age, he or she won’t be able to give you any benefits off their work records while their retirement benefits are in suspension.

12. If you and your spouse were born before or on Jan. 1, 1954 and have been married for 10 plus years, but neither of you will turn 66 before or on May 1, 2016, you have an option to collect full spousal benefits off of each other’s records starting at Full Retirement Age and then take your own retirement benefits at 70. But, there’s a rather large caveat: The option involves getting divorced two years before you reach Full Retirement Age.

Neither of you will be deemed at Full Retirement Age to be filing for both your divorcee spousal benefit and your own retirement benefit (because you have been grandfathered in), so you’ll have this option that someone who won’t turn 62 by or on Jan. 1, 2016 won’t have. Between the time that you divorce and age 70, you can “live in sin.” Then at 70, you can get remarried. For some high-income households this can mean an extra $120,000.

Source: Kotlikoff, Laurence J. "How to Max Social Security Benefits Under the New Rules." Next Avenue. 18 Nov. 2015. PBS NewsHour. 16 Nov. 2015.