National Home Care and Hospice Month – Honoring Front-Line Heroes in the Home

November is National Home Care and Hospice Month. 

Designated as such by the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, this month recognizes individuals in the US who care for the aging and chronically ill in their homes. These compassionate professionals play a pivotal role in our healthcare system and the families of more than 5million people across the country.

National Home Care and Hospice Month celebrates home health aides, therapists, social workers, and nurses for their care, time, and energy. 

Among those receiving ongoing care, receiving care in the home is the preferred method of healthcare delivery. 90% of Americans choose to age in place and for a good reason. According to AARP, aging in place promotes life satisfaction, a positive quality of life, and healthy self-esteem. With over 12,000 home care agencies, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

It’s essential to choose a provider that best suits your individual needs.

We advise you the following tips to ensure you’re working with the home care agency that will prioritize your goals for aging while keeping you safe in your home, no matter what comes:

  • How long has the agency been serving the community?
  • What training does the care team receive? Are their workers insured and bonded? Do they check references and perform background checks?
  • Does the agency have a care manager that evaluates the specific care needed? What does this process look like?
  • Does this agency include the individual and their family in the plan of care? Are they involved in making care plan changes?
  • Does the patient receive a copy of the care plan? Do they update the care plan regularly?
  • Does the agency have a method for overseeing the quality of care? Does anyone from the agency make home visits? If so, how often?
  • Does the agency provide a list of contacts in case there is a concern or complaint? What is the agency’s procedure for addressing concerns or complaints?
  • How will you pay for care? Does the agency provide a list of payer resources and guidance for finding financial aid and benefits?
  • What procedures does the agency have in place in case of an emergency? What is their process?
  • Is someone from the agency available outside of business hours?
  • How does the agency ensure patient confidentiality?

Although November is designated National Home Care and Hospice Month, we see the impact that these front-line heroes have on our communities every day. If you know of someone who gives their energy to keep the aging, chronically ill, or disabled safe in their homes, take a moment this month to thank them for all they do. And if you or someone you love needs help in their home, contact us today.

 

American Diabetes Month: We Stand Greater Than Diabetes

November is American Diabetes Month. As declared by the American Diabetes Association, this year’s theme is “We Stand Greater Than Diabetes.” The association chose this theme to highlight that when we stand together to support the research efforts, legislation, and a healthy lifestyle, we can be greater than the threat of diabetes.

There are three main types of diabetes: Gestational, Type I, and Type II. Type I and II are the most common. Most of the time, patients can successfully manage their diabetes, no matter which kind. Managing this condition can be done through diet and exercise, and in some cases (always, in the case of Type I), medication.

But what is the difference between Type I diabetes and Type II diabetes?

  • Type I Diabetes: With this type, the body doesn’t produce insulin at all. This type cannot be prevented but can be addressed with medication and insulin therapy. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage Type I as well.
  • Type II Diabetes: Though Type II is preventable, it is the most common type. It often occurs in aging adults. Someone who has Type II diabetes can produce insulin, but their body doesn’t use it properly. One can manage this type successfully with diet and exercise, but in some cases does require medication.

While there’s no cure for diabetes, managing the disease can ensure most people diagnosed will live long, healthy lives. However, complications from the disease can arise if it is not taken care of properly. If left unchecked, this disease can lead to underlying conditions that cause further complications and stress on the body.

Some of these complications are seen frequently in older adults and can require regular medical attention and care.

When diabetes is not managed appropriately, neuropathy (a condition affecting the nerves that can cause a loss of feeling and weakness in the area affected) and poor circulation can occur. This can quickly lead to diabetic wounds and ulcers, often seen on the feet and lower extremities. Not only that, but uncontrolled diabetes can cause other, severe conditions. Examples are heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, issues with vision, and some skin conditions. And of course, some of these can require frequent hospitalizations and multiple new medications.

If you have diabetes, there are things you can do to prevent further complications.

 You must keep track of any prescribed medications or insulin therapies. Ensure you’re tracking your blood sugar regularly, if necessary. And of course, maintain a healthy diet and get as much exercise as possible. If your diabetes has already caused complications, it might be a good idea to reach out to an in-home care company that can help you manage a healthier lifestyle. Having caregivers in your home can help ensure that you’re following a proper diet, can help with medication reminders, and, in some cases, medication management. You can also have the peace of mind of having oversight to address any further complications that might emerge.

If you’re an aging adult with diabetes or know someone who could use assistance managing the disease process, reach out to us today. Our professional and trained caregivers can help.

Combating Loneliness and Isolation in Seniors

The effects of loneliness and isolation on aging adults are no small matter. These days, finding ways to connect with our loved ones from afar has become more commonplace than ever.

It’s no secret that social isolation has a poor effect on seniors. Loneliness is connected to anxiety, depression, and higher suicide rates in older adults. Not only that, but seniors that regularly go without social interaction are at increased risk of developing dementia and are at an over 50 percent higher risk for hospitalizations and emergency room visits. In fact, according to the CDC, the risk of premature death from all causes is significantly higher when a senior regularly experiences social isolation.

For many seniors, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, the isolation is not only unwelcome but can be detrimental to their quality of life.

While we are all learning to adjust to a “new normal,” it’s those that are at increased risk of severe complications if they contact Covid-19 that are feeling the effects of this pandemic the most. If your loved one lives in a senior living community, their day-to-day life likely looks much different from months ago. At least they are still surrounded by those in their peer group, as well as the frontline heroes that work to keep them safe and engaged.

But what if your loved-one lives by themselves, in their own home?

If your loved one is comfortable enough with technology, we’ve all learned how integral video chatting can be during this pandemic. Most of us are using zoom or other platforms to stay connected from home with our co-workers. We can connect with those we love in the same way. If not via zoom, Facebook messenger has a video chat option. Skype is another option for keeping in touch from a distance. Have a loved one that isn’t tech-savvy? Pick up the phone, and give them a call.

Hearing from those that love you, especially when it’s too risky to see them in person, can go a long way in making one’s day better.

Because social isolation can be so detrimental to our seniors’ quality of life and overall health, staying active, even from the comfort of one’s home, can make a big difference in mental and emotional health. As can encouraging them to “see the world” from the comfort of their own homes. The Louvre offers virtual tours, or your loved one can take a walk through the Swiss Alps.

Across the globe, people are ready for life to take on some semblance of normal again. For our aging loved ones, this is especially true. In the meantime, find ways to connect with those significantly impacted by the socially distanced landscape. It’s the small things that keep us linked and reminded us that we’re not alone.

If your loved one is struggling with feelings of isolation, reach out to us. A Place At Home can match those you love with a trusted companion to run errands and help curb the loneliness that can be so pervasive during the pandemic.

Arbor Day – Love For Our Planet and Those We Hold Close

Arbor Day 2020

Arbor Day – it’s one of those holidays that we don’t take off work for, or exchange gifts. But for our planet, it’s one of the most important holidays of the year. The founder of Arbor Day, Julius Sterling Morton, had a passion for nature, and trees in particular. Originally from New York, Morton settled down in the Midwest, founding this holiday dedicated to trees in Nebraska, the same state A Place At Home was founded. It is estimated that one million trees were planted in Nebraska at the first Arbor Day celebration in 1872.

 

Impact on our Health and Environment

 

Trees have a major impact on our environment, and our health. Most people know that trees clean the air. But did you know that each year they remove over 46 million tons of air pollution, just in the United States? In the same amount of time, one mature tree will absorb more than 48 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In exchange, it releases oxygen. It’s no wonder then, that 20 percent of the earth’s oxygen overall is produced in the Amazon Rainforest. And trees don’t just affect our air quality. Studies have shown that just being able to see a tree significantly reduces stress levels and improves quality of life.

Impact on our Heart

 

Traditionally, people across the world celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees. Not just to be kind to the environment, but to honor loved ones who have passed away. It’s for this reason that Arbor Day, and the Arbor Day Foundation, is near and dear to our hearts. At A Place At Home, trees represent powerful meaning.  Like others, we think of trees as the symbol of the vitality of life, and those that came before us, and those that will carry on after we are gone. It stands for families and ancestors. It stands for strength, stability, and nourishment.

 

Rooted in Care

 

For every client we have been honored to care for that passes away, A Place At Home plants trees in their memory. Since 2014, A Place At Home franchise network has planted almost 2,000 trees. Memorials to our clients are growing in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Superior National Forest, Chippewa National Forest, Custer-Gallatin National Forest, and Klamath National Forest. Each tree we plant reminds us of how grateful we are to have been touched by the lives of those families and clients.

 

If you’d like to celebrate this Arbor Day by planting a tree, why not go the extra mile and become a member of the Arbor Day Foundation. First time members get 10 trees free and you can sign up here.

 

If you or someone you know can benefit from extra support in the home, please reach out to us to see how we can help.

Eye Care for Seniors: The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Vision is one of the most vital senses, and as your loved one ages, you may notice changes in their eyesight. While some changes are normal to aging, others can indicate more serious issues, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This makes eye care for seniors an essential aspect of their overall health.

Learn more about eye care for seniors, including regular check-ups and diet improvements. These steps can help prevent age-related eye conditions and boost habits that promote optimal eye health.

Routine Eye Exams

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends that individuals 65 and older have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years, even if they have no existing vision problems. Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection of conditions that become more prevalent with age, such as cataracts.

Neglecting regular eye exams can have severe consequences. Conditions like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration can progress silently, leading to irreversible vision loss if not detected and treated early. Annual exams can also reveal other health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes.

Eye Conditions Prevalent in Seniors

  • Macular Degeneration: This condition affects the central vision and can make daily activities like reading and driving difficult. It is the leading cause of vision loss in seniors, according to the National Eye Institute. Symptoms include central vision blurriness, trouble seeing in low lighting, straight lines that look wavy, or a blurry area or blank spots near the center that get bigger over time.
  • Cataracts: A cataract is the clouding of the eye lens, leading to blurry vision. The Mayo Clinic says a cataract usually develops slowly. You might notice your loved one having difficulty seeing at night, being sensitive to light and glares, or needing a brighter light for reading. Other symptoms include colors appearing faded or yellow, having double vision in one eye, seeing halos around lights, or having frequent lens prescription changes. Cataract prevention includes lifestyle change. Severe cases require surgery.
  • Glaucoma: The Cleveland Clinic says glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. It results from increased pressure in the eye, ultimately leading to potential vision loss. Some types of glaucoma don’t show symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose. However, some symptoms include eye pain, blurred or tunneled vision, blind spots, red eyes, rainbow-colored halos around lights, headaches, or nausea. Once damage begins, it’s irreversible, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which is why annual eye exams are crucial for your senior.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy: A condition that can occur in people with diabetes. AAO says it happens when high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina. It can eventually cause blindness. Unlike other eye conditions, diabetic retinopathy typically affects both eyes. The symptoms are similar to cataracts.

Maintaining Good Eye Health

Besides annual eye exams, here are some ways to ensure your loved one maintains good eye health:

  • UV Protection: Encourage your loved one to wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays when outdoors.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataracts and AMD. If your loved one smokes, help them find resources to quit.
  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity improves blood circulation, which is good for the eyes.
  • Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to eye strain and vision problems.
  • Limit Screen Time: Prolonged screen exposure can lead to eye strain. Encourage breaks and the 20-20-20 rule: look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

Dietary Recommendations

While you may not realize it, diet plays a significant role in eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants, like leafy greens and berries, can help with cataract prevention. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can also slow down the progression of AMD. Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins for overall eye health. AAO also recommends orange-colored veggies and fruits with vitamin A, such as carrots or cantaloupe. Vitamin A is good for the retina and keeping the eyes moist. While Vitamin C helps repair the eye from damage caused by fried foods, tobacco smoke, and UV rays.

Call A Place At Home for Help

Eye care for seniors is not just the responsibility of the individual, but also the family and caregivers. If you’re concerned about your aging loved one’s vision, don’t wait for problems to escalate. If you need help getting your loved one to the doctor, let A Place At Home help you. We offer a variety of senior care services, including medical appointment assistance. Remember, good vision contributes to a better quality of life. Take the first step in ensuring a brighter, clearer future for your loved one today.

Find an A Place At Home location near you to set up a customizable care plan.

Addressing Senior Isolation: Strategies for Families and Caregivers

If your senior is experiencing isolation and loneliness, they’re not alone. The AARP Foundation finds that one in five Americans who are 65 years and older are socially isolated. It’s important to recognize whether your loved one feels lonely or isolated, because it’s a hazard to their physical and mental health. Research finds it can result in serious health problems such as high blood pressure, dementia, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases like the flu.

Families and caregivers can play a pivotal role in ensuring emotional well-being and social connectivity for the elderly. Explore how to combat senior isolation and loneliness.

Recognizing Senior Isolation

The first step in combating loneliness is recognizing the signs. These can range from obvious signs like withdrawing from social activities to more subtle indicators such as changes in eating habits or neglecting personal hygiene. Emotional well-being in elderly individuals is closely tied to their level of social interaction, so keep an eye out for any changes in behavior or mood.

Here’s what to look for in your loved one:

  • Lack of interest or withdrawal and deep boredom
  • Incapable of connecting with others on a deeper level
  • A lack of care for personal hygiene or grooming
  • Eating too much or too little
  • Either sleeping too much or too little or complaining about sleep issues
  • Clutter and hoarding of items in their house
  • Increased self-doubt or negative feelings of self-worth
  • Quickly exhausted from social activities or avoids them altogether
  • Frequent changes in mood, from sadness to irritability
  • May become easily defensive or sensitive to criticism

Proactive Measures to Combat Loneliness

Taking a proactive approach can make a world of difference. Here are some suggestions you can try:

  • Regular visits: Consistency is key. Make it a point to visit your loved one regularly and encourage other family members to do the same.
  • Technology: Teach your loved one how to use video calls or social media to stay connected with friends and family who live far away. Have them schedule a daily time to connect with family and friends over a phone call.
  • Community involvement: Encourage participation in community events or religious activities. The benefits of activities for elderly individuals in these settings are immense, from cognitive stimulation to a sense of belonging.
  • Pets: A pet can offer companionship and a sense of purpose, reducing feelings of loneliness.
  • Physical health:Exercise, eating healthy, and getting the proper amount of sleep (seven to nine hours) can decrease elderly loneliness. The National Institute on Aging says seniors should aim for two-and-a-half hours of activity a week that makes them breathe hard.
  • Activity or hobby: Help your loved one reconnect with a hobby they used to enjoy or find a class to learn something new to fill up their free time.

Keeping the Social Connection Alive

As age-related challenges like mobility issues or hearing loss arise, maintaining social connections becomes more complicated but not impossible. Adapt activities to suit their physical capabilities. For instance, consider raised flower beds if your loved one enjoys gardening but can’t bend easily. The benefits of activities for elderly people are not just physical but also emotional and cognitive.

Keeping the mind active is crucial. Simple activities like puzzles, reading, or watching documentaries can keep the mind engaged. Mental stimulation is not just about warding off cognitive decline; it’s also about giving your loved one something to look forward to each day.

Sometimes, all they need is a listening ear. Make time to talk to your loved one about their feelings and concerns. Emotional support can go a long way toward improving overall quality of life.

The Role of Caregivers

Caregivers can play a supportive role in alleviating loneliness. From organizing social activities to providing emotional support and daily stability at home, caregivers can do a lot to promote a sense of belonging. Professional caregiving services like those offered by A Place At Home can provide the necessary social interaction and mental stimulation if you can’t be with your loved one.

Contact A Place At Home

If you’re concerned about senior isolation and are looking for professional support, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our various senior care services are designed to address the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that your loved one is not just cared for but also cherished. We create a customized care plan to fit exactly what you and your loved one need. Remember, loneliness doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging. Take the first step in ensuring a happier, healthier life for your loved one today by finding an A Place At Home location near you.

Senior Mental Health: 5 Tips for a Happy, Healthy Mind

Signs of Dementia to Look for During the Holiday

Senior mental health requires special care. The issue often gets overlooked, but over 20% of adults aged 60 and older suffer from a mental or neurological disorder, according to the National Institutes of Health. Learn some of the most common mental health issues facing seniors and how to support them through anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

Most Common Mental Health Issues in Seniors

Depression tops the list as the most common mental health problem in older adults, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Other prevalent issues include anxiety disorders, dementia, and even psychosis. The National Institute on Aging also highlights that depression in seniors is often misdiagnosed as dementia, making it crucial you thoroughly talk through symptoms with your loved one and their doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.

Warning Signs of Anxiety and Depression

Senior depression can manifest differently than it does in younger individuals. For instance, it’s common for them to withdraw from social activities or lose interest in hobbies. Anxiety might look like excessive worrying, restlessness, or even physical symptoms like trembling. If you notice these signs, talk to your loved one’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

5 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Mind

According to PAHO, two-thirds of seniors with mental health problems don’t get the treatment they need. Open communication is key. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and concerns. Here are some more tips to help your loved one keep a happy and healthy mindset.

  1. Stay socially connected: Encourage your loved one to maintain friendships and engage in social activities.
  2. Mindfulness and relaxation: Techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being.
  3. Healthy diet: Nutrient-rich foods can have a positive impact on mental health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, are particularly beneficial to the brain and can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.
  4. Continue their hobbies: Hobbies such as games, art, or reading are great to get the mind going. They can create a sense of purpose for your loved one and put them in social situations. Research by the University of College London found that adults 50 years and older are 30% less likely to develop depression if they have a hobby.
  5. Regular sleep schedule: A study by the National Institutes of Health shows that inadequate sleep can increase the risk of dementia. Seven hours of sleep a night is considered sufficient.

Showing Support to Your Loved One

Supporting a senior with mental health issues can be challenging, but encouraging them to follow those five tips will help. Additionally, you can create a safe space for them to express their feelings. Open the communication line, listen to them without judgment, and offer emotional support. Help them engage in physical activity and have a social life. This can look like going on an afternoon walk with them or driving them to visit a friend. Loneliness exacerbates senior mental health issues.

At-Home Senior Care for Mental Health

At-home senior care services, like those offered by A Place At Home, can be a lifeline for your loved one. Caregivers can offer one-on-one emotional support and companionship, reducing your loved one’s feelings of isolation and worry. They can also help with medication management, ensuring that your loved one takes their prescribed treatments for health issues, including mental health. Plus, caregivers can help instill a daily routine. This allows your loved one to feel more in control and reduces their anxiety and stress from a lack of structure.

In-Home Care for Seniors with Autism

Senior care is not just for those with age-related conditions; it can also be tailored to support seniors with lifelong conditions like autism. While autism is generally diagnosed in childhood, seniors with autism require specialized care. Caregivers can provide personalized, structured routines and activities that cater to the unique needs of someone with autism, making their daily life more comfortable and less stressful. They can also plan activities designed to engage and stimulate them mentally.

A Place At Home Can Help

Senior mental health is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. If you’re concerned about the mental well-being of your elderly loved one, consider the support that professional at-home care can offer. The A Place At Home experience is unique to you and your family. We provide specialized care individualized to your loved one’s unique needs, ensuring their mental and emotional well-being is taken care of. Find a location near you and take the first step toward a happier, healthier life for your loved one.

Aging in Solitude: The Risks of Loneliness in Seniors

Risks of Loneliness in Seniors senior woman looking out window alone

Loneliness in seniors is a pervasive problem that can lead to negative effects on their mental health and overall well-being. According to research, nearly one-third of seniors experience loneliness and isolation, leading to a host of emotional and physical issues. In this blog, we’ll discuss the effects of loneliness and provide insights on how in-home senior care with A Place At Home can help reduce mental health problems.

Loneliness is a feeling of isolation or disconnection from others. As we age, we may experience the loss of loved ones and physical limitations that can make it difficult to maintain social connections. Seniors may also experience loneliness when they retire or move to a new location where they are unfamiliar with anyone. While loneliness is natural and can be experienced by anyone at any age, research indicates that seniors who experience loneliness are at risk of developing mental health problems.

Mental health issues associated with loneliness in seniors include depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Depression is a common problem among seniors who experience loneliness as they may feel lethargic, sad, and have a loss of interest in activities that they once enjoyed. Anxiety is another problem that can develop from loneliness, leading to worries about their health, social interactions, and finances. Cognitive decline is also associated with loneliness as seniors who feel disconnected from others may not engage in activities that stimulate their mind, leading to cognitive decline over time.

In-Home Senior Care

In-home senior care with A Place At Home is a great way to combat loneliness in seniors. By having access to caregivers and companions, seniors can feel more connected to others and have meaningful social interactions. Companion care can help seniors build relationships with caregivers who can provide emotional support and engage in activities with them, leading to a better quality of life. Moreover, A Place At Home provides an opportunity to connect seniors with others who are going through similar experiences, leading to a sense of community that can combat feelings of isolation.

Loneliness in seniors can have negative effects on their mental health and well-being. However, in-home senior care is an effective way to address loneliness in seniors by providing companionship, emotional support, socialization opportunities, and overall assistance in their daily lives. At A Place At Home, we understand the importance of mental health and strive to provide seniors with the support they need to live fulfilling lives.

To learn about current options for in-home care for yourself or a loved one, give us a call at your nearest location or browse our website to discover more about our senior care services. We provide compassionate at-home care services that make it easier and safer for seniors to maintain their independence and continue to live at home.

5 Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors

A Place At Home - 5 Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors

January is National Bath Safety Month, making it the perfect time to evaluate your and your loved one’s bathroom setups and assess the safety conditions. 

5 Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors

With sharp countertop and cabinet corners, slick floors, hard surfaces, and a lack of handles or supports, bathrooms pose a substantial risk for seniors to experience a slip or fall. As nearly 230,000 injuries are reported each year due to mishaps in the bathroom, we have outlined five bathroom safety tips and precautions to help reduce the risk of injury or fall in the bathroom. 

Install Grab Bars and Non-Slip Strips

The average bathroom is typically not equipped with proper handles and supports to help one move around a bathroom. While you may find yourself grabbing towel bars or shelving for balance, these are not intended to hold weight over 5-20 lbs. Installing grips and grab bars near the toilet, in and around the shower or bathtub, and throughout the rest of the bathroom are the perfect aid for leverage, balance, and maneuvering around the bathroom. 

As there are many forms of grips and grab bars on the market, it is best to opt for wall-mounted options, as suction-cup options tend to come loose or slide down over time. When installing, walk through your loved one’s routine to find the best location and distances to place the grips and grab bars.

5 Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors - Grab Bars

Slick floors in the shower or tub are also a leading cause of falls in the bathroom. Installing non-slip strips help eliminate bulky shower mats and the risk of the mat’s suction cups from coming loose. Non-slip strips adhere directly to your shower or tub and provide a textured, grippy surface to stand on. 

Non-Slip Strips

Keep Bathroom Essentials Easily Accessible

Bending down or reaching up for bathroom products and essentials has also become a leading cause of injury in the bathroom. Bending down can result in hitting your head on countertops, shelving, shower fixtures, or the toilet while reaching up can result in knocking items down onto oneself or falling down from shifting weight to one side as you reach. Additionally, storing shampoo and other products along the edge of the shower or tub can pose a risk of falling while entering/exiting the shower or tub. All necessary bathroom and hygiene products should be kept within easy reach and free from clutter. 

Raise the Toilet Seat

Similarly to bending down for bathroom products, bending down and squatting to use the toilet may become challenging. Installing an elevated toilet seat is an optimal solution to elevate the hassle of transferring on and off the toilet. 

Much like the grab bars, it is important to install a raised toilet seat suitable to the space allotted and the mobility of your senior loved one. When choosing an elevated toilet seat, opt for seats that offer a more permanent and secure option. While these options may require more installation, elevated toilet seats that adhere or install directly onto your existing toilet are best, as opposed to the options that are simply placed over the toilet. 

Elevated Toilet Seat

Invest in an Accessible Shower/Tub or Bath Chair

Accessible showers and tubs are equipped with the stability and support needed for safe bathing, as they are typically furnished with grab bars, adjustable shower heads, shower-safe seating, and easy entry/exit options. Although shower stools are a more budget-friendly option, it is recommended to choose more permanent and supportive options, such as wall-mounted bath chairs like those pictured below. 

Accessible Shower

Hire a Caregiver

The assistance of a caregiver can ensure senior bathroom safety. A Place At Home offers in-home senior care services to keep your loved one safe from unexpected falls and assist with bathing and other daily tasks such as dressing and transferring from a bed to a wheelchair.  

When you choose A Place At Home, you work with a team of qualified, compassionate care professionals who will ensure the highest standards of care are met. Your safety is our top priority. Contact us today for senior-focused care tailored to your loved one’s needs — we are honored to help. 

Tips for Planning a Vacation with a Senior Relative

It is the peak season for vacations to all sorts of destinations ranging from the beaches of the coast or the shopping and sightseeing of the big city. With children out of school, it is easy to bring the whole family together.

While entertainment and planning for the kids will be simple with hitting the water, fun rides, and larger-than-life activities, let’s make sure not to forget the needs and accommodations of your senior relatives.

Tips for Planning a Vacation with a Senior Relative 

  • Ensure that you book a stay at a hotel, Airbnb, or lodging equivalent with an elevator or book a room on ground level. This avoids carrying items for longer periods of time and climbing multiple flights of stairs. 
  • Schedule enough downtime. We all need our rest and to get off of our feet for a while. Plan for ample amounts of quiet time to rest, freshen up, use the restroom, and recharge. If possible, arrange to have a separate space for senior relatives to escape the hustle and bustle of vacation.
  • Include them in the plans. Make sure to include activities that they love. Plan for activities and sights that appeal to them. 
  • Plan ahead, but also embrace flexibility. Establish a general idea of the sights, restaurants, and desired attractions and plan roughly estimated times for these activities. Think through the logistics and estimate with travel time, wait time, delays, and approximate duration of the activity in mind. However, allow flexibility. If a family member grows tired, adjust the plan accordingly.   
  • Assist them with packing. Run through the itinerary with them to make sure they have all the proper needs for each activity. If hitting the water or walking the town, pack items to accommodate their needs, such as extra sun protection and proper shoes. 
  • Consult with their doctor and ensure that they are safe to travel. Health conditions affect one’s ability to travel, especially by airplane. Check which form of travel their doctor recommends and guarantee that medical care is nearby your desired destination in the case of an emergency. 
  • If traveling by air, allow for enough time for leaving the house, traveling, arriving, restroom breaks, etc. Arrange for any onboard assistance, early boarding, or transportation throughout the airport. Book flights with a longer layover time to allow your relatives to recoup, use the restroom, and get from one gate/terminal to another. 
  • Bring all proper documentation, insurance information, and medication. Verify that all documentation is up-to-date and valid. Discuss these items with your relatives for clarity in the case of an emergency. Include the names of their medication, what they are used for, and the times they should be taken. 
  • Limit the amount of walking or strenuous activity. Rest is key. If sightseeing around the city, plan for longer stops along the way. Opt for sights where it is easy to drive up to and require less walking to reach. If visiting a theme park, break up the to and fro around the park with a longer lunch break, longer, seated, and less thrilling rides, or cart/trolley transportation around the park. 
  • If wheelchair-bound, confirm that the desired locations and attractions are wheelchair accessible. Confirm that the desired restaurants, lodging, museums, sights, etc. have wheelchair ramps, lifts, or elevators.  
  • Document the experience and share the photos with them. Memories are the best part of vacations. Bring a mobile device or digital camera to capture the experiences. Choose a polaroid camera or disposable camera for a fun, nostalgic way to document the memories. 
  • Manage expectations for the entire family and those traveling with you. Excitement will take over when on vacation — explain to the younger family members the need for rest, downtime, and patience. While waking up early may not be desired for the younger crowd, it is imperative to beat the crowds and ensure less hustle and bustle for the senior relatives to endure. Additionally, arrange to have a separate activity for the children as museums may not be interesting or they need to get some energy out. 
  • Proper hydration is important when traveling. With different altitudes and allergy/weather conditions, it is paramount that your family practices proper hydration. Carry water at all times and look out for the signs of dehydration in seniors. 
  • Consider bringing the help of a caregiver. A caregiver will provide your loved ones with the support and attention they need, even during vacation. They will assist with routine activities of daily living, such as dressing, using the restroom, and bathing, as well as have a full understanding of the medical needs of your senior relative.

If you are looking for in-home senior care, schedule a free consultation with our A Place At Home office. You can expect a quick response about pricing or answers to any questions about our in-home care, care coordination, or senior living alternatives. Our professionals are ready to provide you or your loved one with compassionate care, open communication, and support, and improve overall quality of life. Call or schedule a free, online consultation with your nearest A Place At Home location today!