Home Instead Senior Care

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Getting Social with Seniors During the Holidays

January 8, 2021 / / 0 Comments

The holidays are supposed to be a magical time for people of all ages. However sometimes it can become increasingly difficult for seniors to stay active, festive, and remain included in the numerous festivities happening around them. Below we discuss some simple ways to get social with your elders this holiday season and the benefits of doing so.

Holiday Themed Activities:

  • Driving or walking to see local Christmas light displays
  • Baking holiday cookies and treats
  • Going caroling or going to watch carolers
  • Putting up holiday decorations
  • Cook holiday themed meals
  • Watch holiday movies
  • Do holiday themes arts & crafts
  • Make DIY decorations
  • Online shop together
  • Go to church
  • Volunteer together

How Socializing Benefits Seniors

Lack of social support is related to negative impacts on health and well-being for people of all ages, but especially for older people. According to the AASC, increased social support from others can be important in reducing stress, increasing physical health and defeating psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Activities that promote positive self-awareness are especially valuable for helping improve a person’s overall quality of life and satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Each passing year we get to spend with our loved ones brings with it an increased value and preciousness that cannot be taken for granted. Finding inclusive activities that the entire family can enjoy together doesn’t have to be difficult, forced, or stressful when you are effectively prepared and supported. For supplemental senior support during the busiest time of the year, call on the selfless CAREGivers at Home Instead Senior Care.

Caregiving for Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

November 27, 2020 / / 0 Comments
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If your loved one has been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, this doesn’t mean that they can’t be independent. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “he or she may still drive, take part in social activities, volunteer and even work.” However, everyone is affected differently and should be treated with the personalized care they deserve. This means providing support when they need it, while planning ahead for the future. Learn how caregivers can maximize independence with your loved one.

Routine Reminders

During the early stages of Alzheimer’s, there may be some confusion or frustration when it comes to remembering names and dates. Names may become harder to recall. Similarly, dates for upcoming events or appointments may also be forgotten, especially if they’re not written down or saved on a phone. Caregivers can prompt your loved one to write important information, set reminders, and more. If needed, the caregiver can help with planning and organization for appointments and so on.

Transportation

If a person with Alzheimer’s feels disoriented or confused while driving, this can be dangerous for them and others on the road. It’s important for those with early-onset Alzheimer’s to communicate if they need help with driving so they can be safe, while also keeping their independence. Many caregiving agencies offer transportation services, which can be a relief for family members and reduce stress/anxiety about driving for your loved one.

Health and Wellness

Prioritizing the health and wellness of someone with Alzheimer’s is important. From maintaining a balanced diet to encouraging physical activities, a caregiver can focus on your loved one’s needs directly. They can come up with a plan to help a person in the early stages of dementia with basic cooking and prepping. Also, caregivers can support your loved one’s activities, whether that be exercising outside or moving around the house.

The Next Step

If you have a family member with early on-set Alzheimer’s, contact Home Instead Senior Care for dedicated caregiving services. We are devoted to your loved one’s needs and are here to help families like yours with Alzheimer’s care. For more information about our home care services, call (910) 342-0455 today.

How to Show You Care When You Can’t Be There

October 30, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Today more than ever we have to remain vigilant in protecting our elders from being exposed to serious illnesses. In order to properly maintain our respective distance it can become increasingly hard to check in on and spend time with our aging loved ones. Below are a few ways you can send your love and thoughtfulness from a distance.

Video Chat

Anyone with a cell phone, tablet, or computer is most likely able to participate in some form of video chat. While Facetime isn’t available to everyone, Skype, Whatsapp, and Facebook video chat are! Most of these platforms will also allow you to add screens from multiple locations, allowing the entire family to join!

Send a Care Package

No one knows your loved one better than you do, so why not mail them a package with all of their favorite treats! From candies and notes to movies and small gifts, care packages can help families and friends share joy and sentiments with each other from worlds away.

Have a Meal Delivered

Having a hot and delicious meal delivered is one of the easiest ways to send a lot of love from a distance. Whether it’s from their favorite restaurant or something you made from scratch, nothing beats having prepared food delivered right to your door.

Final Thoughts

While it remains difficult for everyone, at this time maintaining a reasonable distance from our elders is by far the best way we can protect them from falling ill. When you can’t be there and meal deliveries are no longer cutting it, consider how professional home care services could help. In-home care services can be beneficial at any point within the aging process. Click here for more information about home care services in Wilmington, NC.

A Checklist for COVID-19 Safety

September 30, 2020 / / 0 Comments

During the COVID-19 pandemic, let’s work together to flatten the curve. There are preventative measures you can follow to keep yourself safe. From social distancing to washing your hands, these practices are important to slow the spread and limit the exposure for higher risk groups, such as seniors and children. For more coronavirus safety tips, follow along in our blog.

1. Stay at Home

There are exceptions to the rule when it comes to staying at home, such as medical visits and grocery shopping. However, staying inside needs to be a priority. If you want to find more ways to lessen your exposure, many companies are offering drop-off services for groceries and other necessities. Additionally, elderly individuals can depend on senior care services for transportation and grocery pick-up, including fulfilling requests for personal care and meal preparation.

2. Practice Social Distancing

To protect your loved ones from COVID-19, it is recommended to practice social distancing. This means staying at least six feet apart and avoiding close contact with family and friends. Of course, caregivers should maintain caution when coming in contact with seniors for medical applications and otherwise.

3. Wash Hands

The CDC recommends to “wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. It’s especially important to wash before eating or preparing food, before touching your face, after using the restroom, etc.”

4. Clean and Disinfect

Fighting against the virus necessitates cleaning and disinfecting. Clean household items with disinfectant wipes that have antibacterial properties. Some areas to wipe down include countertops, light switches, doorknobs, toilet handles, faucets, and more.

5. Wear a Mask in Public

Prevent the spread of COVID-19 with a face covering. This is to limit the spread of droplets if you happen to cough or sneeze. A cloth covering is suggested by the CDC, as N95 masks are reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders. Wearing a mask in public settings where you cannot practice social distancing is also recommended.

Conclusion

To learn more about what Home Instead Senior Care is doing to slow the spread of COVID-19, visit us online. You can also follow us on our social media pages for the latest updates. Remember, we are all in this together!

Caregivers-A Guide to Self-Care

August 31, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Being a caregiver can be a very emotionally and physically demanding job. In today’s events, emotions and stresses are at a much higher rate due to our nation’s fight against COVID-19. New regulations and restrictions have risen due to this virus, and seniors along with their caregivers and family members are some of the groups that felt these changes the most. It is important for caregivers to practice self-care and give themselves time to recharge. Read along as we discuss a few ways caregivers can practice self-care outside of work.

“Me” Time

“I’m going to have a me day,” can sound like a cliché to many, and even selfish. However, truth of the matter is that having a day to yourself is never selfish, in fact, it is necessary. Being on-the-go everyday and neglecting your own needs can lead to higher stress levels, mood changes, and unsatisfactory feelings. Practice self-care by investing in what brings you calmness and relaxation. Give your mind and body a break, we promise you’ll feel in a much better mood after indulging in things that help you recharge!

Good Meals & Good Sleep

When you are caring for someone else, it is easy to forget about your own meals. Having good, nutritional meals and a good night’s sleep can help prevent caregiver burnout. Make a schedule for yourself to ensure that you are eating at an appropriate time and not skipping any meals. Forgetting to eat can lead to an irritable mood and fatigue. A nighttime routine can also help you get much better sleep. Try going to sleep at the same time, avoid heavy meals at night, and reduce your consumption of alcohol at night to get the quality sleep you deserve.

Remain Social

The long hours of caregiving can lead to exhaustion, hindering your quality time with friends and family. While being social in a demanding job like caregiving, it is still important to remain socially connected to others in order to reduce that feeling of isolation and burnout.

Being a caregiver takes compassion, patience, and love for the position and those who you are caring for. It is understandable to feel overwhelmed and tired after a long day at work, which is why we put so much importance on taking time for yourself. Give yourself the same care and love that you give others, so that you can continue to do what you love with a good attitude and a rested body. Here at Home Instead Senior Care we appreciate our caregivers and their hard work. Learn more about our mission and services online.  

Home Care Help for Diabetic Seniors

July 9, 2020 / / 0 Comments

A diabetes home care program covers the health and wellness needs of a diabetic senior. While managing diabetes may a challenge for family members, in-home care is a way for seniors to receive the personal care they need. From daily medication reminders to planning healthy meals, elders can enjoy an independent life at home with the help from a care provider. Discover how in-home services can benefit your diabetic loved one in our blog!

Medication Reminders

Many seniors are capable of taking medications, but reminders are still necessary. Forgetting to take a medication can result in an emergency if glucose levels become too low or too high. With a caregiver at home, family members can have a peace of mind that their loved one has medical assistance if necessary. Caregivers know to look for signs of distress and get help in urgent situations.

Monitoring Blood Glucose

Whether seniors have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels is important. A caregiver can gently encourage a senior to check regularly and help them if they have mobility or vision problems. Furthermore, caregivers can document blood sugar results and urge loved ones to follow doctor recommendations for glucose results that are too high or too low.

Meal Preparation

A healthy, balanced diet is key for a senior living with diabetes. If planning meals and going grocery is a requirement, a trained caregiver can help with those activities. It is essential to discuss with the in-home care company which services they offer, such as transportation and so on.

Conclusion

Our CAREGivers at Home Instead Senior Care are passionate about delivering important in-home diabetes care to the senior population of Wilmington, NC. Call us to find out how we can help your loved one manage life with diabetes by calling (910)-342-0455 or visiting us online here.

What is Respite Care?

June 23, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Primary caregivers hold the responsibility of caring for a loved one, such as an elderly or disabled parent. They act as a supportive role in a person’s life, helping them with important tasks at home and understanding certain everyday needs. However, the encumbrance of caregiving may be overwhelming and tiresome for some, which is why primary caregivers turn to respite care. Learn more about respite care and what it involves by reading our blog.

Definition

“Respite care provides temporary relief for a primary caregiver, enabling you to take a much-needed break from the demands of caregiving a sick, aging, or disabled family member,” according to HelpGuide. The purpose of respite care, as mentioned in the previous statement, is a way for primary caregivers to be reprieved from caring for a loved one for a period of time. Whether that be a couple of hours each day or taking a short vacation, respite is an important resource.

Services

One of the ways a caregiver can get relief is with an in-home care service. Whether these visits are scheduled on a regular or occasional basis, in-home respite provides an opportunity for loved ones to be cared for in the comfort of their home. A trained staff member can perform duties such as meal prep, shopping, housekeeping, bathing, feeding, and even medical care. Some home care companies have specialty services available too, so call ahead to inquire.

Arrangement

Having resources for respite can make a difference for a primary caregiver. HelpGuide states “while finding and arranging respite care sounds like a lot of work, it’s important to remember that respite is not just a service, it’s an effect that comes from taking breaks from the stresses of caregiving.” Caregivers can schedule times, plan breaks, and make accommodations if necessary.

Conclusion

At Home Instead Senior Care, we provide in-home respite care for the elderly that gives you a break from caregiving. A well-designed respite program provides these breaks on a regular, scheduled basis. For more information on our respite care program in Wilmington, NC, please call us at (910) 342-0455 or visit our website here.

Fun & Safe Activities for Seniors During Quarantine

May 14, 2020 / / 0 Comments

The world has been going through difficult times amid COVID-19. From mandatory quarantine to social distancing efforts, changes have been made worldwide to help flatten the curve of this virus. According to the CDC, anyone can get infected by the virus, but seniors ages 60 and up are at a much higher risk, which is why such an emphasis has been put on taking preventative measures to keep them as safe as possible. Here at Home Instead Senior Care, we have made a huge effort to help senior loved ones remain safe in their own home, and have found a variety of creative ways to keep they time at home fun and safe during quarantine. Read along to learn about some activities that you can partake in with your senior loved ones!

Puzzles & Painting

 Quarantining can be a bit underwhelming if one doesn’t make the effort to find fun activities to do around the house. This is especially true for seniors. Some fun and safe activities to do with seniors are puzzles and painting, both of these are engaging, allow for creativity, and can easily take up a good amount of time. You want activities that will keep them entertained for long periods of time so that they don’t get bored easily. Not only are these enjoyable, but they also allow you to sit down and enjoy some quality bonding time!

Video Calls

With social distancing orders in place, it is not recommended to have people outside of your household visit. Although you are not allowed to have visitors, it doesn’t mean that you have to lose touch with friends and family. A great way to see your loved ones is through a video call. If you are an iPhone user, FaceTime is the way to go. There are also other Apps such as Zoom, House Party, and Skype that you can download for free. Many have gotten creative and have even celebrated birthdays virtually, where family members and friends all video chat at the same time to celebrate.

Meditation

Not being able to go outside and partake in regular activities can take a toll on anyone both physically and mentally. Anxiety and depression can easily increase during these difficult times, especially for seniors. You can reduce anxiety and depression through some simple meditation. Find a quiet and comfortable place in your home where you can meditate for a period of time without being interrupted. Not only will this bring you some calmness and peace of mind, but it will help you manage the emotions that are rising do to the current pandemic.

Show your senior love and compassion during these tough times by engaging with them through some fun and safe home activities. Our experienced team is here to help your senior loved ones remain safe and comfortable in their own home.  Learn more about our essential services by visiting our website.

Healthy, Home-Cooked Meals for Your Senior

April 8, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Preparing a healthy meal for your loved one doesn’t have to be a challenge! Even if you’re a busy individual but still need to care for your elder, you can plan ahead with a few simple meals. These dishes are not only delicious, but nutritious as well. They can be cooked with limited prep time and stay fresh in the freezer when you’re ready to use them. Find out which healthy meals you can make at home for your senior by reading our blog!

Nutritional Meal Ideas

Mix and match your senior’s menu with tasty recipes for lunch, dinner, or a mid-day snack. Ranging from sweet to savory, we’ve listed examples of meals that are packed with nutritional value, but still have the flavors your loved one can appreciate.

  • Chicken and vegetable hand pies: This entrée combines whole grains, vegetables, and chicken. It’s easy to make in batches that can be frozen for up to six months.
  • Apple cinnamon French toast: Almond milk, organic eggs, apples, flaxseed, and pumpkin puree are great sources of soluble fiber and protein in this recipe. You can make this ahead and freeze for up to two months.
  • Mediterranean quinoa burger: Another meal you can make and freeze for up to two months, these filling burgers are rich with fiber and protein. Whole grain wheat buns and fresh veggies complement this burger.
  • Egg muffins with kale, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese: These simple egg cups are a delicious source of protein that can be turned in to a meal any time of day. For a busy caregiver, they make a tasty on-the-go breakfast too.
  • Signature spicy, smoky, and sweet chili: This crockpot meal is easy to make and freeze. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey to make it even healthier.

Conclusion

Our trained caregivers at Home Instead Senior Care​ can help your loved one with a healthy, well-balanced diet. From the grocery shopping to the meal prep, our in-home caregivers can provide meals that appeal to all tastes and dietary restrictions. Call or visit our website to learn how our mealtime services can help your loved one eat well and stay well!

Safe Indoor Exercises for Seniors

March 23, 2020 / / 0 Comments

Staying active can improve a senior’s health, even if an exercise routine is done indoors. Some elderly people may not have access to a gym or other equipment, but it’s still possible to get the necessary exercise they need to be healthy and fit. From indoor walking to stretch exercises, there are many ways for seniors to keep strong and flexible. To learn more about easy indoor exercises for the elderly, keep on reading!

Indoor Walking

Getting up to walk around the house is a still a great way to improve cardiovascular health. As long as an elderly person doesn’t have heart or lung problems, then moving about to clean and cook is definitely an option. Even a light jog from one end of the house to the other can increase joint mobility. Seniors should aim for around 20-30min of walking.

Yoga

Seniors can reduce muscle pain and increase flexibility by doing simple yoga exercises. One of the easiest ways to get a routine started is by following a video or going to a group class. It’s important to focus on main muscle groups, like the arms and legs, for at least 15-20min each day. Yoga is for everyone, so if an elderly person is at a beginner level or perhaps more advanced, they can choose which yoga poses work for them best.

Strength Training

Preventing muscle loss and promoting bone health are just some of the reasons why seniors should focus on strength training. Seniors can work on their muscles by using resistance bands and lifting weights at home. The equipment doesn’t necessarily need to be heavy, but it must provide enough force to tire out the muscles. Strength training should last between 15-30min.

Conclusion

If you need help caring for your senior’s health and wellness, then contact Home Instead Senior Care. We have our staff of friendly caretakers to assist elderly residents that want to live an independent lifestyle, while still getting the help they need. If you would like to inquire about our senior services, visit our website today!

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