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Is Gardening Beneficial for Seniors with Dementia?

August 2, 2021 / / 0 Comments

            As spring transitions to summer, countless people are taking advantage of gardening in their homes. Even though not everybody has a green thumb, gardening is beneficial, especially for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Follow below to learn why gardening is helpful for people with Alzheimer’s or related forms of Dementia.

Gardening Benefits

Gardening can improve Alzheimer’s or a similar type of Dementia without medications. Digging in the soil can reduce nervousness and fretfulness for seniors. Additionally, maintaining and planting new flowers can increase a sense of independence and boost confidence for older adults. Gardening can reduce pain and reliance on pain medications for many people. Seniors with Dementia will enhance their memory and ability to have happier days.

Gardening Essentials

As a caregiver for somebody with Alzheimer’s disease, you need to create an outdoor space that helps them enjoy time with you. Below are a few ideas to help get started and stay on track:

  1. Preparation: Preparing where to start gardening and what plants to use is vital. It will help creativity, exercise, and more. Caregivers and senior adults can choose what flowers, herbs, and vegetables to use to grow over time.
  • Garden containers and beds: Sometimes, there are moments when there is no place to plant a garden in the ground. Or, a senior who has mobility challenges may be restricted from growing flowers they want. Containers or raised beds take less space and provide a safer way to care for a garden, and it is a fun way to take care of plants.
  • Circular Gardens: A safety concern that comes up when considering people facing Alzheimer’s or a related type of Dementia is a patient wandering off, and creating a garden path that makes a circle can lower the wandering. Also, keep the senior gardens far away from exits or gates.
  • A Comfortable Seat: Gardening can be difficult, so it is crucial to have a place to rest. A comfortable bench or chair in the garden can be very beneficial.
  • Be Mindful: Sharing responsibility for a few garden tasks with a senior can help them. Being mindful that some functions may be too complex for seniors can help them not overexert themselves.

Following these helpful tips can help your loved one feel appreciated and have a healthier lifestyle. Gardening is a great way to bond with them as well.

In Summary

Finding an activity for an adult with Alzheimer’s can be difficult. Yet, one of the best things they can do to improve their health is gardening. Gardening is one of the activities done at Home Instead. At Home Instead Senior Care, we provide gardening activities for your loved one. For more information on our activities in Wilmington, NC, please call us at (910) 342-0455 or visit our website here.

Seniors and Their Life-Space

July 21, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Most young people have a very large life-space due to traveling for fun or for work. In general, when you’re younger, you have the time and energy to stay out with friends and to complete your own errands. So what happens to your life-space when you get older? In this month’s blog, we discuss the concept of life-space and what it means when it becomes more restricted with age and health issues.

What Is a Life-Space?

A life-space is the distance a person travels to perform activities within their environment and lifetime. This can range from their home to their neighborhood to the city and so on. The larger a person’s life-space is, the better their physical and psychological well-being. As seniors age, their life-space may begin to become smaller and more constricted due to health issues and having less energy. For example, being unable to drive due to worsening vision or having restricted physical capabilities due to severe arthritis. This can lead to feelings of frustration and sadness because they are unable to achieve what they were formerly able to do.

Isolation and Depression

As their life-space becomes smaller, seniors tend to spend most of their time at home. However, social isolation can be a problem for those who live alone and can negatively affect their overall mental and emotional health. According to the CDC, social isolation can significantly increase a person’s risk of premature death and is also associated with about a 50% increased risk of dementia. It is also associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety.

While some seniors may still have family and friends that visit and are nearby, there are many seniors who find themselves unexpectedly alone due to the death of a spouse or partner, separation from friends or family, and the lack of mobility and transportation. Having a restricted life-space along with the lack of love ones contributes to these feelings of loneliness and isolation.

How Home Instead Can Help

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Here at Home Instead, we understand how difficult it is to be stuck at home while feeling isolated and lonely. Our CAREGivers provide companionship and will always be there for your loved one. From crafting to gardening to walks and more, we are happy to provide companionship and personal care. We also provide transportation services so seniors who are no longer able to drive themselves are still able to maintain a larger life-space. This includes activities such as doctor appointments, worship services, fitness classes, club events, and much more. With our CAREGivers on the job, your senior loved one will not be alone.

Learn More About Us

Home Instead strives to provide dependable and compassionate senior home care services. Our personalized care plans help maintain a high quality of life while providing all of the necessary support. Learn more about our home care services in Wilmington, NC by visiting our website or contacting us at (910) 342-0455. We are here to help!

Reasons to Open a Home Instead Franchise

June 30, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Home Instead is a proud leading provider of in-home senior care services across the globe. This franchise has not only helped thousands of families remain close while their loved ones age gracefully at home, but it has also enabled countless CAREGivers and franchise owners to provide for their own families in ways they could have never imagined. Follow along below to learn why so many have chosen this award-winning franchise network with its history of top franchising honors, industry excellence, and franchisee satisfaction.

Home Instead franchise business ribbon cutting ceremony with four business people

Proven Track Record

Decades of undeniable success has awarded Home Instead with a reputation that cannot be beat. It was named a top franchise by Franchise Business Review as well as Entrepreneur magazine, and among these awards, Home Instead is ranked as a top franchise for women and veterans especially. Not only is Home Instead known for its triumphs in the home care industry but to its commitment to creating outstanding opportunities for entrepreneurs as well.

A Growing Industry

The demand for affordable and accessible home care for seniors has exponentially increased recently due to COVID and this trend is not going to stop. For this reason it’s safe to say that the senior in-home care industry has potential to be a booming business opportunity for the foreseeable future.

Female CAREGiver and female client smiling

Enhance Lives

Our franchise partners share our values in innovating and advocating for successful aging all around the world. Home instead dedicates itself to actively participating in leading organizations in the senior care industry such as the World Dementia Council, Global Coalition on Aging and more.

Join our movement to change the industry of care and aging by enhancing the lives of seniors and their families in your local community. In addition to providing consistent home-based championship and care, you’ll also be able to serve to your community through free educational resources and giving back programs too.

Final Thoughts

With over 26 years of experience and more than 1,200 franchises in 14 countries, Home Instead is a clear choice for entrepreneurs who crave a rewarding, fruitful, and steady way of life. For more information on Home Instead, including details about franchise opportunities, visit franchises.homeinstead.com or call our global headquarters at (402) 498-4466.

Signs it’s Time to Hang up the Car Keys for Good

April 30, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Sooner or later retiring your keys and driver’s license will be the right thing to do to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. For some that time will come sooner rather than later, and determining exactly when that is can be difficult for families and aging individuals to navigate. Below we discuss three major signs that may indicate it’s time for a driver to retire their keys for good.

Declining Vision

Regular trips to the eye doctor for up to date vision tests is the best way to definitively determine if it’s safe to continue driving. Each state has their own laws regarding the age at which seniors must visit the DMV in order to keep their licenses. Most DMV locations also offer convenient vision tests and refresher courses for individuals over a certain age.

Confusion

Regularly getting lost or confused while behind the wheel is a major sign one should no longer be driving, especially if it happens in familiar locations. Regardless if the individual has experienced any other signs of memory loss or early dementia, becoming disoriented while driving should always be taken very seriously.

Property Damage

An increasing number of dents, dings, scratches and scrapes on one’s vehicle may hint at difficulties with night vision, depth perception, or delayed reflexes. Regularly assessing the vehicle for damages can help determine how often these mishaps occur and if they become more frequent.

Final Thoughts

Ensure your aging loved one can always get around comfortably and safely with professional transportation services. Home Instead Senior Care is a nationwide provider of home care and safe transportation services that help keep the rhythm of everyday life in place with rides to the hair salon, grocery store, worship services and other events. Contact us at (402) 205-8492 for more information.

3 Things to Know About Hip Replacement

March 17, 2021 / / 0 Comments

            Are you worried about your loved one’s hip placement procedure?  The good news is the medical procedure is a common and aims to improve your loved one’s hip function. Hip replacement is a procedure that a surgeon performs on a damaged hip joint. The operation includes replacing the hip joint with an implant or a prosthesis. Here are three things to know about hip replacement.

Who needs it?

Most of the time, elderly adults get ailments that harm the hip joints. Bone health decreases with age, cumulating the threat of a hip fracture. But, anybody with substantial pain and inadequate movement may profit from a hip replacement. Before the operation, physicians try out non-surgical treatments. Patients will undergo medications, physical therapy, and injections to help with their hip issues. Yet, doctors will usually offer hip replacement surgery to those who have constant symptoms.

What are the Risks?

There are different implant procedures for substituting parts of the hips. There are many surgical techniques for the operation replacement of the ball on the top of the femur. It also includes replacing the cup, or socket, in the pelvis. Hip replacement surgery lessens discomfort and increases movement. A hip placement operation has risks including infection, bleeding, blood clots, pulmonary embolus, and dislocation. In severe cases, the surgical operation can bring nerve damage and the implant loosening.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the operation, the patient will need to use a walker, crutches, or a cane to help them walk. A physician will offer medicines to support the patient in the recovery process. Many patients take two to three days to recover in the hospital. Some medical centers perform outpatient or same-day, total hip replacement surgeries for your convenience. At home, patients must do exercises to toughen the hip and recover mobility. The exercises can be easy activities around the house, such as learning to walk around with the new hip.

Conclusion

Hip problems are a severe issue for many older people and cause lots of pain, discomfort, and the inability to move. It is most common for people who have osteoarthritis of the hip. 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.

The Hypertension Diets for Seniors

February 25, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Hypertension is a manageable condition otherwise known as high blood pressure, which is when the force of blood against the artery walls is too high. If hypertension is left untreated it can lead to severe consequences including heart attack, stroke, aneurysm or worse. Below we discuss some diets that have shown to make the most significant positive changes in the health of those living with hypertension.  

DASH Diet

The DASH diet stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. It’s comprised of dietary guidelines that, when followed, encourage a greater consumption of a variety of nutrients that naturally reduce blood pressure. The basic rules of this diet involve eating mostly fruits, vegetables, and low fat dairy products as well as whole grains, lean protein, and nuts.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is very similar to the DASH diet in that they both naturally promote overall health and work to reduce hypertension naturally. This diet is based upon a pyramid structure with a foundation of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, a second tier of fish, a third tier of poultry and dairy, and a top tier of red meats and sweets.

Salt Reduction

The easiest and simplest way to reduce blood pressure and hypertension naturally is to decrease the levels of salt you ingest. According to Harvard Health when you consume too much salt your body holds on to water in an effort to dilute it. Unfortunately this extra water increases your blood volume, which causes your heart to work harder to pump blood through your blood vessels. 

Final Thoughts

When you or your loved one is diagnosed with hypertension the reasons to stay proactive in its management are endless. If your family could use more support when it comes to senior care, nutrition, socialization and more call on the compassionate professionals at Home Instead Senior Care. Our goal has always been to help our clients and their families’ age happily together at home.

Best Exercises for Seniors with Arthritis

January 29, 2021 / / 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.

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.

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