Tag: in-home service

Here’s How You Can Find Quality Senior Care When the Time Is Right

May 3, 2023 / admin / 0 Comments

We understand how difficult it is to choose a senior living home or care provider for a loved one. Luckily, we are here to guide you. Here is a resource guide that will help you find practical tools for evaluating options and advice on knowing when “it’s the right time”. Continue reading to learn more!

Here’s How to Manage Difficult Emotions Around Senior Care

It can be extremely difficult and you may be fraught with emotions when you have to decide on your options for senior living homes or in-home care. Here are some of the main contributors to the stress that many caregivers experience:

You will witness a decline in your loved one’s health.
You will see your loved one struggling to maintain independence after they’ve lost a spouse or partner.
You are feeling the strain of balancing your career and family while being a caregiver.

Are you the primary caregiver for a parent or older relative? Then you must also be wrestling with guilt, grief, feelings of inadequacy, or even burnout – especially if you’ve been taking care of the person for a long time.

Being aware of and processing complicated feelings and emotions can be very important. It can help you shape the entire experience. Some tips you can follow to help include:

You can talk to a trusted friend, relative, mentor, or therapist.
You can seek professional support online or in-person.

Signs Your Loved One Needs Support

Apart from dealing with the emotions on your end, keep an eye out for things that may signal a parent’s or relative’s need for support. Some signs may be subtle, however, other times they are quite obvious and can include:

The lack of organization or forgetfulness such as piles of unopened mail or unpaid bills.
The lack of energy or inability to maintain their daily chores and errands such as cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, etc.
Your elderly loved one failing to take their required medications or seek medical help.
Not enjoying or partaking in their usual activities.

Top Steps for Finding Care

Here’s a checklist that you can follow to find the right housing or in-home care once you’ve determined the type of support your loved one needs:

You can start your research online.
You can also consider referrals from friends or peers who have relied on those services.
Try making a list of three to five home care agencies or senior living communities and make appointments for consultations.
You can also interview prospective caregivers or take an in-person tour of the facilities.
Ensure that you are asking as many questions as you can while taking into account your elderly loved one’s needs and requirements.
Make sure to have a proper discussion with your family in order to take their considerations into mind and to make the right choices.

Conclusion

We hope the above-provided guide will help you make the right decision. At Home Instead Senior Care, our CAREGivers are professionally trained to care for your loved ones. With proper care and assistance, our team will ensure your loved ones are active and mentally stimulated so they can enjoy life to the fullest. Call us at (910) 421-2572 for further information.

What You Can Expect From In-Home Respite Care

March 13, 2023 / admin / 0 Comments

Caring for an elderly loved one at home can be a rewarding experience, but it can also take a significant toll on your physical and mental health. As a caregiver, you need to take a step back and recharge your batteries every now and then. This is where respite care comes in – offering rest and reassurance for both parties. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that 13.8 percent of the U.S. civilian population provides unpaid eldercare, and if you’re one of them, then this blog is for you.

The Care Your Loved One Needs In the Place They Love

Respite care provides the necessary elements that help seniors achieve the highest quality of life possible. We’re talking about access to medical care if needed and assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. This helps you to do your everyday activities, relax, deal with stress, and look after yourself.

Related: Learn more about the benefits of respite care here.

Flexible Care You Can Count On

In-home respite care is, by its very nature, a care that provides benefits to both you and your love one. Unlike facility-based respite care, in-home respite care can be tailored to your loved one’s specific needs and schedule. You can choose the frequency and duration of care that best suits their needs.

A Chance to Socialize

While respite care provides companionship for your loved one, it also gives you the time to catch up with friends, both old and new. Yes, you can happily take time out for yourself, knowing that professionals are taking care of and accompanying your loved one. This means there is no room for loneliness and isolation concerns.

Assessment and Guidance

Since respite care will be provided by professionals, you’ll have a chance to determine your abilities and learn more about caregiving. Many caregiver families assume their role without having any experience, and this can put their loved one’s health at risk. A respite caregiver will guide you to develop easy schedules that include self-care and provides you with tips to avoid caregiver pitfalls.

Related: Learn more about helpful tips to avoid caregiver pitfalls here.

Conclusion

With in-home respite care, seniors and their family caregivers can get the needed break they deserve and build a better relationship. When you are looking for reliable in-home respite care in Wilmington, NC, turn to Home Instead Senior Care. Our respite caregivers are highly trained to assist seniors with all their daily needs. Call us at (910) 421-257 to create an in-home respite care plan for your parent.

Safe And Reliable Techniques To Safely Transfer An Individual

February 17, 2023 / admin / 0 Comments

Transferring an individual is a process of moving a person from one flat surface to another. From a bed to a stretcher and from a bed to a wheelchair are some of the common transfers. This transfer is often required for a bedridden person who may not be independent (requiring minimal help) or totally dependent. Since transferring a person is not as easy as it seems, it requires the right techniques and following certain guidelines because it all depends on understanding each person’s specific needs. To help you understand better, here is a guide to follow.

What are the general safety precautions you need to follow?

Below are some of the general safety precautions that you must consider when you transfer an individual.

You need to ensure that you are using the correct body posture during the transfer.
You need to ensure that you lift and move the person safely.
You need to ensure that you are not letting his or her arms wrap around your neck or back, as this can injure your back and neck.
Seek out help if you find yourself struggling to move the person because of their weight.
To avoid the risk of falls, injuries, or pain, ensure to move the individual smoothly, without quick and forceful movements.
Make sure you have the right equipment nearby as these will help you transfer the person safely. Some of the best equipment includes slide boards, slide sheets, hoists, and transfer belts.

What do you need to consider before transferring someone?

Make sure you are aware of the person’s pain, condition, or other problems.
Make sure to keep some extra pillows around to ensure a smooth transfer.
Try wearing shoes with nonslip soles, as they will help you have a firm grip on the ground. Also, look around the room to remove anything you might trip over while lifting the individual.
Ensure that all equipment is locked and not moving, be it a wheelchair or walker.

What do you need to do after you’re done with transferring someone?

You need to check whether the person is comfortable or not after the transfer.
If he or she needs to rest, help them sit with their back resting against the back of the chair.
Double check to ensure that all medical equipment is running correctly.

Conclusion

We hope that the above-mentioned important advice will assist you in providing the best possible care for your loved one. If you need professional help, Home Instead Senior Care is here to help your elderly loved one stay healthy, engaged, and connected to their communities. Give us a call at (910) 421-2548 to avail of our services. Learn more about how we can help by visiting our website.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Caregiver for the Elderly

September 23, 2022 / admin / 0 Comments

In this fast-paced world, many seniors may need the additional help and support. As they age, the deterioration of health and energy is inevitable. They require more attention, care, love, and support. It can be hard to always be present for them, which is why hiring a professional to assist them in their daily routine is often recommended. The following are some of the reasons why you should consider hiring a professional caregiver for the seniors in your life.

1. A caregiver can help maintain a senior’s independence.

Being sent to an old home can be the cause for a senior to lose their independence. A personal caregiver in the comfort of a senior’s home allows them to have a sense of individuality and independence even at such an age even with the extra help. As a much happier alternative to in-facility care, seniors can still receive personalized care without losing their confidence, comfort, and independence.

2. The care services are personalized depending on the individual.

A professional caregiver can solely focus on one person and give them their undivided attention and service whenever it’s required. By choosing a professional caregiver, you get a personalized plan for your beloved elderly that contributes to their health and wellbeing. Whether the services call for transportation and mobility or housekeeping duties, a professional caregiver will do it all.

3. Caregivers are excellent companions and listeners.

One of the biggest problems the elderly face as they age is the struggle with loneliness and depression. The family is not around as much as they used to be before. At such times, they need a companion to help them share their feelings. It curbs loneliness and keeps depression away. A caregiver will always be present to act as an emotional support for the elderly. They will assist your loved one to be in touch with life and their emotions.

Conclusion

We understand that life can get very hectic with things coming up out of nowhere. If you have trouble maintaining housekeeping and taking care of your loved one, we can help. Home Instead Senior Care provides compassionate in-home care services that includes personal care, light housekeeping, meal prepping, grocery shopping, transportation, and much more. Give us a call at (910) 421-2574 to avail of our services. Learn more about how we can help by visiting our website.

Best Exercises for Seniors with Arthritis

January 29, 2021 / admin / 0 Comments

When seniors refer to arthritis, they usually mean joint pain or joint disease – along with stiffness, swelling, and compromised range of motion. Arthritis can be painful, which is a reason why seniors may avoid exercise. However, there are low-impact exercises that are safe and joint-friendly for the elderly community. Read along in our blog as we discuss safe and simple activities for seniors with arthritis.

Water Aerobics

Water aerobics are a great way to exercise without a lot of joint impact. The resistance of the water helps with building strength and muscle. In addition, a heated pool may relieve pain and be more comfortable for swimming. Seniors can simply walk from one edge of the pool and continue along the side, modifying their movement when necessary.

Yoga

To reduce symptoms of arthritis, yoga is highly recommended. Using a range of motion, seniors can use yoga as a way to stretch and relax with low-impact exercises. Easing into the movements isn’t as stressful to the joints like jogging or running. Plus, yoga can be practiced almost anywhere, making this type of exercise easy to do.

Weight Lifting

Weight lifting doesn’t have to mean using heavy weights. In fact, a pair of light dumbbells can help develop strong muscles. Seniors need muscle to support joints, so it’s best to target major muscle groups for quality results. As an alternative, resistance bands can be used since they offer enough resistance to build muscle and they come in different strengths.

Conclusion

Home Instead Senior Care offers arthritis care and activities for seniors with arthritis and related conditions. We understand the importance of daily exercise and safe activities, which is why we tailor our care plan to your loved one’s specific needs. For more information about in-home arthritis care services in the Wilmington, NC area, call us at (910) 342-0455.

Caregiving for Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

November 27, 2020 / admin / 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.

Home Care Help for Diabetic Seniors

July 9, 2020 / admin / 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 / admin / 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.

Tag: in-home service