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It's true that a large majority of our clients at Visiting Angels are seniors. But did you know that we also care for a significant number of clients who are far from retirement age?
Homecare services are helpful in any situation where an individual needs assistance maintaining independence at home. Because the core of our non-medical services is providing help with the basics of daily living, there are countless scenarios where choosing to hire a caregiver can be an invaluable decision for anyone at any age.
A few examples of non-senior clients we have cared for include:
Children: We have helped families with children living with long or short term illnesses and disabilities that, in many cases, require care throughout the day. Frequent medication reminders, constant companionship and other routine activities make meeting a child's care needs difficult for parents who cannot be with them all day due to work or other responsibilities.
New moms: Light housekeeping, meal preparation, errands and other household tasks are life savers for new moms who are adjusting to life with an infant while simultaneously recovering physically and caring for other children.
Post-op Recovery: Whether cosmetic or routine, outpatient or inpatient, people of every age require additional assistance after a surgical procedure to maintain their independence and recover successfully. Visiting Angels can assist with picking up perscriptions, meal preparation, transportation to follow-up appointments and other tasks that spouses or other familiy members may not be available to help with.
For more informaton about Visiting Angels and how our caregivers can assist your loved one of any age, please contact one of our three Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 8/18/2010 10:20:01 AM |
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Those of us who work in homecare are no stranger to the trials and tribulations of the hospital discharge process. We help many of our clients through the journey from admission to diagnosis to discharge, and are well aware of the pitfalls that can arise if you are going through the process without an experienced advocate.
Unfortunately, due to insurance limitations, overcrowded hospitals, lengthening life expectancy and a host of other factors, the hospital discharge process is becoming increasingly traumatic- and consequently, increasingly ineffective. A high percentage of elderly patients who are discharged from a hospital will be re-admitted within 30 days. This is a huge probem that needs to be faced head on by all of us working in the continuum of care.
Until a major healthcare system overaul takes place it is crucial that patients who are admitted into hospitals understand what they are facing and are armed with the right tools to successfully navigate a hospitalization. A recently published column in The New York Times sheds light on this issue and offers some invaluable tips. You can read the article here.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help you or a loved one successfully navigate the hospitalization process to an effective transition back home, please contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 7/12/2010 5:13:42 PM |
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At Visiting Angels we care for many people living with Alzheimer's disease. Most of these individuals are in the early to moderate stages of the disease and do well staying at home with help from a caregiver.
However, because Alzheimer's is a degenerative disease, many of our clients reach a point where it is no longer safe or appropriate for them to stay home- even with 24 hour care in place.
In such situations, our caregivers communicate their concerns to our care team and we make a recommendation to the family. Typically this recommendation involves transitioning the elder into a community that specializes in working with memory impairment.
In the Bay Area we are fortunate to have many outstanding options for memory care. One local company, Emeritus Senior Living, recently published tips for easing an elder's transition from home into a memory care community. Here is what Emeritus suggests:
Before the move, make your loved one's new room or space look and feel as familiar as possible. Moving from one home to another can trigger anxiety for anyone. For a person with Azheimer's disease, however, a changed routine and an unfamiliar environment can be extremely stressful. If you're helping a loved one with Alzheimer's move to a new home or into a care facility, make the transition as comfortable as possible.
Decorate the area with meaningful possessions. Familiar belongings can trigger feelings of ownership and boost their sense of security.
Here are some recommended items for their new room:
- Personal family photos - especially of parents and siblings.
- A favorite blanket or throw for over the bed.
- Favorite bedding can make the resident feel more at home instead of new bedding.
- Familiar furniture can be better and more familiar than new.
- A CD player and favorite music CD's are better than watching TV.
- Bath towels that are familiar or similar to ones they had at home.
Also stock the space with pictures of family and friends, memory books or photo albums. Reminiscing about the past can help a person with Alzheimer's bring important memories into the present. Label the pictures to help employees and others identify with the people in their lives and encourage conversations about the past.
To see the article on the Emeritus page, click here.
For more information about Visiting Angels and how we can help someone you know who is living with Alzheimer's disease, please contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 6/1/2010 9:53:41 AM |
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Many are expected to take care of elderly parents or family members as their parents age and become less independent. It is very difficult, especially considering that most caregivers have their own careers and families to take care of as well. Families are happy to take care of their loved ones; however, it is recommended that there is some type of additional senior care to give respite to families. This is helpful with daily tasks and overnight and out of town needs.
There are a multitude of basic needs, including household maintenance and chores to be tended to when aiding in senior care. Fundamentals such as bathing and grooming, preparing meals, household chores, and paying bills are some examples of what needs to be done for someone. Perhaps some of these can be done by family members, but many times it is too much to handle, and additional caregivers are needed. Services are available to provide help for these basic senior care needs and companionship.
In addition to chores and keeping up with household duties, maybe a challenge is overnight care, or even being responsible for someone who lives out of town. In this day and age, it is common for families to live great distances from each other. If the adult child who is responsible for a senior lives out of town, how will their parent get to a doctor’s appointment, have a companion to check in on them, or take their proper medication? Hired senior care is available, and they offer caring, secure, and trained caregivers. Perhaps a family has coverage during the day, but is unable to spend the night with a loved one, and would feel more secure if their parent had someone in their home overnight. These senior care services are available also.
Visiting Angels provides caring, at-home caregivers offering respite for families, alleviating the stress that they may have. Visitingangels.com has caregivers that can help with hygiene assistance, meal preparation, housekeeping, errands, and much more. They allow the maintenance of a family’s schedule while providing personalized care.
Bio: Grace Enderlein is a freelance writer and editor. “Take the Pressure off With Senior Care” notes that respite care from Visitingangels.com is helpful for a family caring for a loved one in need.
To learn more about Visiting Angels and how our experienced caregivers can help you take the pressure off, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 5/3/2010 4:27:50 PM |
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At Visiting Angels it is our goal to care for our community as a whole. This includes caring for the environment and practicing "green" behavior both at home and at work.
With Earth Day right around the corner, Visiting Angels is sharing tips with our fellow professionals for how to make your workplace more environmentally friendly.
Here are the top 5 Visiting Angels Earth Day tips for your office:
1. Start a recycling program if your office doesn't already have one. It's easy, saves energy and pollution, and you can pool your recycling earnings to use for fun office extras.
2. Paper or plastic? Neither! They both gobble up natural resources and cause significant pollution. Save energy and trees by bringing your lunch in a reusable bag.
3. Americans send 29 billion plastic water bottles a year to our landfills, lakes, rivers and oceans. It takes 17 million barrels of crude oil to produce them- enough oil to keep a million cars going for a year! Reach for a reusable water bottle instead.
4. Turn off your computer or set it to hibernate when your day at the office is done. This alone can save $75 per computer per year in energy use.
5. Turn off your computer screen whenever you leave your office. Screen savers are not energy savers. Using a screen saver may in fact use more energy than not using one!
For more information about these and other Earth Day tips, visit these sites:
www.energystar.gov
www.reusablebags.com
www.nationalgeographic.com
To find out more about Visiting Angels and our homecare services, please contact one of our three Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 4/12/2010 2:51:53 PM |
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Finding the right long term care option for you or your loved one can be overwhelming. It is emotional and can often become a jumble of information, paperwork, processes and procedures.
Looking for long term care options raises many questions- Can I stay in my home? Am I appropriate for an assisted living facility? What are my needs? What can I afford?
It also introduces a number of terms that the average person probably isn't familiar with: board and care home, home health v. homecare, palliative care, licensed v. unlicensed, and CNA (Certified Nurse's Aid), just to name a few.
Luckily, many professionals in the senior healthcare industry recognize the difficult nature of the process of finding the right long term care option. As a result there are an increasing number of tools available to help make the decision easier. Here is a short list of resources to get you started:
Placement Specialists:
It is the job of a placement specialist to be the expert on long term care options in a given community. They keep up-to-date on the status of facilities by conducting a regular rotation of visits- some scheduled, some impromptu- to check up on the places they recommend to their clients.
During their visits, placement specialists not only look into the care and licensing in each facility but at the intangibles that are important to families and future residents. What is the ambiance? Do the residents seem active and engaged? Is the facility clean and the staff attentive?
For a list of recommended placement specialists in your area contact your loal Visiting Angels office.
Online Tools:
Websites for finding long term care resources are popping up right and left. Some are simply online directories, others are a little more involved and help walk you through your needs and identify your options.
CalQualityCare.org is a great place to start. You can search for resources and take a quiz to identify what type of care you're looking for. Note: this site does not list non-medical options like Visiting Angels. The resources are provided by the State of California and only include licensed care options.
Non-profit Organizations:
Most communities are fortunate to have non-profit organizations that help connect seniors and their families with long term care resources. Some of these organizations are affiliated with hospitals and others are independent.
We refer many of our clients in the East Bay to John Muir Senior Services. This comprehensive organization is a one-stop shop for senior-related information in Contra Costa County. Anyone can call and speak with a social worker who can assess the caller's needs and recommend appropriate long term care options.
Ask your doctor, senior center or friends if they know of a similar organization in your area.
To learn more about Visiting Angels and find out how we fit into your long term care plan, or to receive further information about the long term care resources listed above, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 2/8/2010 1:14:34 PM |
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Winter 2009-2010 has already brought record cold temperatures to the Bay Area and the rest of the US- and it's only January! With weeks to go before the relief of Spring it is crucial that anyone who cares for a senior is aware of the dangers of cold weather.
The National Institute on Aging publishes a pamphlet called, "Stay Safe in Cold Weather!". It contains vital information about the risks posed by winter weather as well as tips for keeping older adults safe and healthy through the cold months.
To view or order the pamphlet click here.
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| 1/18/2010 3:05:05 PM |
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The recent 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta Earthquake reminded all of us living in the Bay Area of how important it is to be prepared. With fears of "The Big One" looming it's critical that we have disaster supplies on hand and an emergency plan in place.
For our clients and other seniors living in the Bay Area there are additional considerations. Health complications, physical impairments and isolation are very real issues facing seniors in our community, and they make disaster preparedness more complex. Questions that arise include, how can you ensure that you will have your necessary daily medications on hand after a major earthquake? If you live in an assisted living community or skilled nursing facility, how will you know where to go and what to do if the building sustains damage? If you have limited mobility or are no longer able to drive, what will you do if there is an evacuation?
Various organizations offer information about how to assemble a survival kit, what to include in your disaster plan and other crucial tips to be prepared in the event of an earthquake. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) along with many partner organizations published the handbook Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country. An online version can be found here.
Rebuilding Together Oakland published a helpful handbook that focuses on extra steps seniors should take to be prepared. The Earthquake Preparedness Manual: Survival Guide for Seniors can be found here.
It doesn't take much effort to be prepared, but preparation is the key to surviving a major disaster like an earthquake. Use the publications above as a guide and make sure you have supplies in your home, office and car- you never know where you'll be when disaster strikes. Most importantly, be sure not only to prepare yourself but think about anyone you know who can't prepare themselves and may not have anyone else available to help.
For more information about disaster preparedness for seniors and the homecare services we provide at Visiting Angels, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 10/23/2009 5:23:30 PM |
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Take the opportunity to educate yourself about the disaese, increase awareness and celebrate those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.
For more information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month visit http://www.nbcam.org/. |
| 10/2/2009 2:15:58 PM |
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is predicting that 30-50% of Americans could contract the 2009 H1N1 Virus- commonly known as "Swine" Flu- during the 2009-2010 flu season. As flu season is officially upon us, there are many things the public can do to try and stay healthy during this period.
It is particularly important that anyone working closely with vulnerable populations is aware of what can be done to prevent the spread of the Swine Flu. Although seniors are not thought to be disproportionately impacted by the Swine Flu, it's still important for caregivers to avoid any behavior that may put their care recipient at risk- especially if the care recipient has a condition that makes them more suseptible to the virus, like a chronic respiratory condition or compromised immune system.
The following information taken from the San Francisco Examiner offers steps that caregivers can take to help their care recipients avoid falling victim to the Swine Flu:
Swine flu is a highly contagious disease, easily spread person-to-person by virus particles contained in coughs, sneezes, or personal contact (such as kissing or on hands). Caring for the elderly is a huge responsibility and the last thing anyone wants to do is spread the flu or swine flu by not practicing hygienic practices.
If you are a home care worker or health care worker, your job becomes more strenuous during the flu season. Below are some tips to ensure the continued health of your charges:
1. Schedule and get your own flu shots - for both the flu and the swine flu. The flu shot does NOT protect against Swine flu so make sure to get immunized against both. Swine flu shots are proposed to be available in October sometime and come in a series of 2 shots, 3 weeks apart.
2. Ensure your elderly friends are immunized against flu and pneumonia. The CDC recognizes that most elderly subjects have some natural immunity to swine flu so are more concerned with immunizing the primary targeted groups before the elderly.
3. Monitor visitors coming in. Everyone wants their darling child to visit grandma or grandpa but little ones are breeding grounds for illnesses due to having a new immune system. The elderly are especially susceptible to illness so keep anyone with a running nose, cough or sneeze away from the people for whom you care. Swine flu contagion period is 7 days after symptoms start but children may remain contagious for much longer.
4. Ask visitors to keep kissing and touching to a minimum. It's a good time to practice 'air kisses' or 'blowing kisses' from young children to the elderly.
5. Keep antibiotic solutions (such as Pyrex) handy throughout the house. Controversy exists about whether antibiotic solutions really help reduce the spread of flu or Swine flu as they're viruses but it can't hurt! Ask visitors to use the solution before touching the elderly.
6. Monitor the CDC Fluview spread maps to see where confirmed cases are, on a week by week basis. Increase prevention maneuvers accordingly - if flu cases have been confirmed in your immediate area, you might want to consider instituting a 'no visit' policy. Phone calls are always allowed....
For more information about the non-medical caregiving services we provide at Visiting Angels please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 9/8/2009 1:03:12 PM |
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Medication errors can be deadly, so developing a plan to help you avoid them is a must. The best way to prevent a medication error is to know your medications and when and how to take. Creating a personalized medication record will help you keep track of when to take your medication so that you do not make mistakes or miss doses. If you are unable to create a medication record yourself, ask your caregiver, doctor or pharmacist to help. Remember, you are the boss when it comes to your medication and taking a proactive stance will help ensure your medication safety.
The Vial of Life program consists of a vial (empty pill bottle, plastic bag or other container), labeled with a Vial of Life sticker, inside which is placed a medical form which has been filled out stating the health status of the individual and current medications being taken. The vial is placed in the refrigerator, usually recommended to be on the top shelf of the door, because it has been shown that the refrigerator's contents are preserved in the event of a fire. Stickers are placed in the front window of the home so that responding emergency personnel will know to look for the Vial.
For more information, visit the Vial of Life website. |
| 9/1/2009 12:37:05 PM |
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When a loved one is nearing the end of life, the last things anyone wants to be distracted by are legal issues. Unfortunately, along with the emotional and psychological components of the dying process come many important legal and medical questions. Who is responsible for making health care decisions on the patient's behalf if the patient is unable to? Should the patient be given CPR if the need arises? Should the patient's organs be donated?
There are many tools available to avoid confusion around these issues that arise at the end of a person's life. The Mayo Clinic has put together a helpful tip sheet that describes these tools and outlines their purpose. The information in the Mayo Clini's tip sheet can help you or your loved one prepare for both unexpected and expected end of life situations.
To view the tip sheet click here.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help care for your loved one at the end of life, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 7/27/2009 4:54:48 PM |
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Good communication between patient and practitioner is essential to good care. Practitioners need to know the whole story about a patient's condition, lifestyle, symptoms, etc... in order to make an accurate diagnosis. Patients need to receive all the facts and understand completely what their practitioner is telling them in order to follow instructions and stay healthy. Information about the patient's condition can then be passed on to other healthcare providers, such as Visiting Angels, in order to ensure that the patient is receiving the right level of care. If communication fails at any point in this chain, the result could be serious for the patient.
Provider-patient communication improves drastically if a patient is prepared for their appointment. Following the simple tips in this article can result in more successful trips to the doctor, which means a better chance that the patient is receiving the care they need.
For more information about Visiting Angels and how we can help provide the care your loved ones need to stay healthy and independent, please contact one of our local Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 7/20/2009 2:35:10 PM |
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There are many misconceptions about what diseases pose the greatest threat to women. The following list, courtesy of Health Net of California, ranks the diseases that cause the most deaths among American women:
1. HEART DISEASE
It's common to think that breast cancer is the #1 killer of women, however, heart disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined.
2. CANCER
Did you know that the most common cancer killer among women is lung cancer? It is followed by breast cancer and colorectal cancer, the latter commonly thought of as a men's disease.
3. STROKE
Approximately two-thirds of the deaths from stroke are women. Smoking and uncontrolled blood pressure are major risk factors. Stroke is also one of the leading causes of disibility in America.
4. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder)
An overall term for a group of chronic lung conditions, it's major cause is smoking and is associated with lung cancer. COPD includes bronchitis and emphysema and one's quality of life diminishes in relation to the progression of the disease.
5. DIABETES
An estimated 5 million Americans are unaware that they have diabetes. Complications are usuallly life threatening and include blindness, kidney damage, and severe nerve damage. Those with diabetes are also two to four times more likesly to have a stroke or heart disease.
The risk of contracting many of these diseases can be lessened through simple lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or improving eating habits. Making basic adjustments like these can drastically improve the odds of living a long and healthy life.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can assist anyone you know who is suffering from these and other conditions, please contact one of our local Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 6/26/2009 4:25:05 PM |
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When the heat is on it’s time for everyone to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses and deaths. Each year approximately 200 people die of heat-related issues. The summer is an especially critical time for preventing heat-related health issues in older adults. Numerous studies have proven that hot weather is more likely to affect older adults, 50 and above, than younger ones.
Heat-related health problems in seniors can result when the outside temperature is in the 80-90 degree range. Therefore, those caring for older adults should always check the temperature and monitor it and their loved one closely. Caregivers should be also aware of the many additional risk factors that place seniors in danger of suffering complications from the heat.
As we age physical changes take place and older adults lose the ability to cool down. These and other physical changes in older adults sometimes do not allow them to feel the heat when temperatures rise to dangerous levels. Seniors are also less likely to hydrate themselves as they often do not recognize feelings of thirst as quickly as younger adults.
To add to the elevated risk posed to older adults in hot weather, major diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and others common with seniors increase the likelihood that they will have problems when the temperature rises. Some medications, along with excessive heat, can make a volatile combination that shouldn’t be ignored.
Here are some basic guidelines caregivers can follow to prevent heat-related illnesses in older adults:
- Move the individual to an air conditioned room and make sure that the thermostat is set cool enough. Also make sure the unit is in good reliable working order. Fans are not enough as all they do is re-circulate hot air.
- If there is no air conditioning available, perhaps frequent trips to your local shopping mall or grocery store are in order.
No senior should ever attempt to walk even short distances during severe temperatures.
- Older adults should always drink plenty of water or other clear liquid nutritional supplements.
- Tip: If an older adult's urine is light in color, the person is properly hydrated. If it is a darker yellow, more hydration is required.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will dehydrate the body.
- Frequent cool showers, baths or sponge baths can help keep an older adult's temperature down
- Wearing light colored clothing, loose fitting, and made of a breathable fabric like cotton are helpful in managing heat.
- If going outdoors is a must, be sure a hat is always worn with a brim to cover the face and ears.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help keep your loved ones safe from heat-related illness, please feel free to call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 5/27/2009 3:31:35 PM |
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Each year the government issues flu warnings for seniors and young children- the two populations most vulnerable to infectious disease. It is understandable that these same populations are particularly concerned about the new H1N1 flu virus, aka the "Swine" flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the H1N1 strain and tracking the outbreak on the CDC's official website. Along with listing reported cases by state, the CDC's H1N1 website is a great source for up-to-the-minute news, facts about the virus, and information about what you can do to stay flu-free.
Being informed about symptoms and ways the virus can pass from person to person is the best way to make sure that you and your loved ones avoid contracting or spreading the flu. At Visiting Angels, we are closely monitoring our clients and staff to make sure we are doing our part to keep the H1N1 virus from spreading. Together we can keep our seniors and our community healthy! |
| 5/4/2009 5:57:57 PM |
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Want to be an Earth Day Angel? Change just one lightbulb in your home or office and you will be off to a great start!
Did you know that exchanging just one standard bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) can:
- Save at least $30-$40 over the life of the bulb (about 8,000 hours)
- Increase safety by producing 70% less heat
- Use 2/3 less energy, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and helps protect our environment from the risks of global climate change.
Encourage the seniors in your life, family and friends to use energy efficient light bulbs. They can help save money and save the Earth at the same time! Together we can work to improve the health of our seniors and our planet.
Sources: www.energystar.gov, www.lightbulbsamerica.com
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| 4/23/2009 9:56:13 AM |
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Wondering if losing your car keys is a sign that Alzheimer's or dementia is setting in? You're not alone, and that's one reason why the Alzheimer's Association has put together an updated list of early warning signs. The article below is taken from the association's monthly newsletter and includes their new list of signs that you should look out for.
Updated Warning Signs Help with Early Detection
It may be difficult to know the difference between age-related changes and the first signs of Alzheimer's. As part of it's public education effort, the Alzheimer's Association has worked with a wide range group of experts to update it's 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's to make them more current and user-friendly. The comprehensive review process included feedback from health professionals, clinicians, scientists and people with dementia.
The revised warning signs are the cornerstones of Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters, the Alzheimer's Association's national early detection campaign. The signs are a key tool in promoting recognition of common changes that may facilitate early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's or another dementia. Early detection, diagnosis and intervention are vital because they provide the best opportunities for treatment, support and planning for the future.
The revised list describes the following signs:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
For more information about the 10 warning signs and early detection and diagnosis, contact the Alzheimer's Association at 877.IS.IT.ALZ (877)474-8259 or visit www.alz.org/10signs.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can provide care to those living with Alzheimer's or dementia, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 5/8/2009 4:35:34 PM |
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It's a hot day around the Bay! That means it's time to start thinking about staying safe in the heat.
Did you know that those most at risk for heat illness are young children and the elderly? When the mercury starts rising into the high 90’s, here are some things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from dehydration, sunburn and heatstroke:
- Know and be alert for symptoms of heat illness: fainting, dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, flushed skin, and body temperature of 104 degrees.
- Anyone suffering from a heat illness should rest in a cool, shaded area, and sip chilled water or fruit juice.
- To avoid becoming dehydrated when sitting or working in the sun, replenish with fluids often and avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine. Keep your skin moist and cool.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, a hat, and waterproof sunscreen.
- If you take prescription medication, check with your doctor before being in the sun for long periods of time.
Please be certain that you pack the following items for summertime activities with a senior: sunscreen, umbrella and lots of water or juice. It is especially critical for seniors to drink more fluids to prevent dehydration. Circulatory or other conditions make it difficult for older individuals to maintain a balance of fluids in humid weather, so drink up! In addition, a sturdy chair and insect repellent should also be available. Packing everything in a rolling bag is helpful and easier to manage.
For more information about Visiting Angels and our homecare services, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 4/20/2009 12:50:18 PM |
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Consider this situation:
You fell and broke your hip. You are sent to the hospital where you are quickly admitted and told that you will need surgery. Over the course of the next few hours you meet nurses, doctors and specialists. You are asked questions about your medical history, allergies and pain level. You are sharing a room with a stranger on a noisy, bustling floor. On top of all of this, you are in pain and you are alone.
Situations similar to this fictional scenario are very common among the senior population. Navigating the hospital system is intimidating to begin with, and adding pain, confusion or fear to that makes the experience practically impossible to handle.
Educating our seniors about what to expect in the hospital is one way to reduce the stress of hospitalization. Identifying people who are willing to act as your advocate in the hospital, whether it's a family member or friend, is also helpful. Anyone who will be charged with navigating a hospitalization should become familiar with basic processes and procedures, terminology, technology and personnal in order to reduce the chances of confusion and eliminate as much stress as possible.
The National Institute of Health has put together an article titled "Hospital Hints" that provides useful information regarding the hospital system that everyone should know. It is a great introduction to effectively navigating a hospital stay.
Hiring a homecare agency is another way to reduce the stress of a hospital stay. At Visiting Angels, we are experts in working with hospital staff and are familiar with the processes and procedures that you will likely encounter. We can work with you social worker or discharge planner to ensure that you have everything you need to recover at home and avoid future trips to the hospital. These and other care management services can help make your hospital experience and transition home more manageable and less stressful.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help you or a loved one who has been hospitalized, please feel free to call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 4/14/2009 12:54:52 PM |
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As Americans continue to live longer, the number of people with Alzheimer's disease is increasing at an alarming rate. Today, more than 5 million people have Alzheimer's in the United States.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and fatal brain disease. It destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior severe enough to effect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's, but treatment for symptoms, combined with support services, can make life better for people living with the disease.
Risk Factors
The greatest know risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease is increasing age. Most individuals with the disease are 65 or older. However, people can get Alzheimer's in their 50s, 40s, and even 30s. Other risk factors for developing Alzheimer's include family history and genetics.
Although there are several risk factors for Alzheimer's disease that we can't change, including family history and genetics, research has shown that there are things we can do to keep our brains healthy:
Stay mentally active
Remain socially active
Stay physically active
Adopt a brain-healthy diet -dark fruits and vegatables and omega-3 fatty acids. Reduce your intake of foods high in fat and cholesterol.
For more information about Alzheimer's disease, visit www.alz.org or call 1.800.272.3900.
Reprinted by permission of the Alzheimer's Association. Copyright 2007 Alzheimer's Association. All rights reserved. |
| 2/25/2009 5:32:58 PM |
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Many people, including some health care professionals, do not realize how common alcohol abuse is among older adults. Emotional issues combined with habit and generational norms contribute to the prevalence of seniors with drinking problems.
Alcohol abuse, while harmful at any age, is especially dangerous for older adults. As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Additionally, many seniors take prescription medications that cause severe interactions when combined with alcohol.
The National Institute on Aging published this report about the dangers of alchol abuse among older adults. It is an extremely helpful tool for family, friends and providers who work with seniors who have drinking problems, as well as anyone who suspects an older adult is abusing alcohol.
For more information about how our caregivers can help you care for an older adult who struggles with alchol abuse, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 2/9/2009 1:17:04 PM |
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Dark chocolate is tasty and healthy.
Sound too good to be true? It isn't! Experts say that eating a little bit of dark chocolate each day is good for you. Dark chocolate contains anti-oridants and has been shown to lover blood pressure and cholesterol.
So go ahead and indulge a little- it's good for you!
Happy Valentine's Day from Visiting Angels!
For more information about our in-home caregiving services, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 2/13/2009 9:08:54 AM |
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Many of our older clients experience symptoms of depression when the holiday season rolls around. Because this is the time of year when families gather and memories are made, seniors are often more aware of feelings of loneliness and the opinion that their best memories are all behind them. This is commonly referred to as, "the holiday blues." Unfortunately, there are some older adults who suffer more serious side effects as a result of the holiday blues- some that may lead to suicide.
There are many things you can do to help a senior you know beat the holiday blues. This article from the Washington Post provides suggestions for conquering the symptoms of depression that creep up around the holidays and ensuring that the seniors in your life enjoy the holidays to the fullest.
For more information about how we can help the older adults in your life, please feel free to contact us at one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 12/24/2008 10:06:19 AM |
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Seniors are one of the groups hit hardest during flu season. It's important for anyone who spends time around older adults to take precautions in order to keep from spreading the flu to this vulnerable demographic.
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy during this year's flu season:
1. Avoid close contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Printable Materials for Promoting Good Health Habits
* Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/flu |
| 10/6/2008 12:08:21 PM |
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