With a growing senior population, home care Phoenix knows many aging adults are searching for ways to reinvent themselves and reach new life goals. Some of these goals may be quite simple, yet others can be difficult to achieve. The list below contains some useful tips that can be used by seniors when trying to attain new goals this year.

1. Try to be more conscious of what you eat. While sweets are hard to resist, try eating a piece of fruit instead of candy. It will satisfy your craving for sugar and is much healthier.

2. Buy a scale for the bathroom. This will help monitor your weight. You can even use a journal to keep track of any changes. A good scale will help you through your weight-loss journey.

3. Increase physical activity. Seniors do not need to join a gym. A simple short walk each day will help burn extra calories. In addition, that walk can help keep your heart healthy.  Exercise also increases your mood, so not only will it have physical benefits, but your mental health will improve as well.

4. Discuss weight loss plans with a doctor. You want to make sure your diet is providing you with the intake you need to stay healthy yet at the same time will help you lose weight.

Source: aarp.org

Image Source: sxc.hu

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

Those of us who find ourselves online day after day know that the internet can really create a sense of community and belonging to those that might have minimal physical social interaction in their day-to-day lives. However, with only 42% of older adults over the age of 65 using the internet, according to a recent Pew Internet study, there are still plenty of seniors who have yet to discover the camaraderie that can come from internet use, and they should. It’s not just about belonging when logging onto sites like Facebook or Twitter, it’s about preventing loneliness and isolation that can come from older adulthood and staying in touch with those who are most important. By doing this, seniors can improve their quality of life, even preventing depression.

In the United States, medical treatment that relates to depression equates to approximately $100 million each year alone, which means, there are plenty of seniors who are struggling through their daily lives. While the internet is surely not a cure for depression, it can reestablish a connection for seniors that can help them feel that they belong, and having support, companionship and friendship can play a major role in the prevention of depression.

Via: Home Instead Senior Care

Image: eldergadget.com

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

If you read our previous post on the mistakes boomer women make when it comes to financial planning, the next step is to understand the right things to do in order to be financially secure for your future. As a strong, independent, boomer women here are a few tips in  financial planning to ensure that you are even prepared for the unexpected:

1. Let go of the idea that it’s too late – you might feel that as you approach your senior years, it’s too late to get yourself out of any financial mess you’ve made or learn new methods when it comes to managing your finances. When it comes to financial planning, it’s never too late to start!

2. Learn about money – this may sound obvious, but start doing your homework and research about all things finance. Learn about investment options, about financing available, about interest rates, and about anything that’s likely to apply to your situation before you even make your next move. Books and the internet are both great resources

3. Talk to a financial planner – you can hire a personal money adviser or speak to one that’s already available to you at your Phoenix bank (although someone independent might be more impartial) in order to keep you informed and help you make financial decisions

4. Support yourself – if you don’t have the means to save, invest or pay off debts, you might need to get a job. Find something you love, but ensure you have a set goal for earnings that will help you reach your financial goals

5. Pay off debts – don’t put it off, find a way to start paying off credit cards and loans right away

6. Save and invest – put money away every month without fail, every little bit will help you reach your financial goals and bring financial security

Via: Let Life In

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

Polypharmacy is a common practice amongst many Phoenix seniors; with more than one third of the population over 65 taking 5 or more drugs at any given time. Although many of the medications are prescribed by a doctor, there can still be oversights that can result in drug interactions that can cause complications that might even be life threatening. In order to prevent or reduce the risks, seniors can take the following precautions when engaged in polypharmacy:

1. Keep medications documented – carrying a list of all prescription and non-prescription medications taken (including vitamins and supplements) can help ensure none are forgotten about when speaking with doctors and pharmacists. The list should also include why they’re taken, the dosage and frequency

2. Mention even over-the-counter medications to medical professionals –you might not think they’re important, but even over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements can interact

3. Don’t assume – don’t assume that your doctor remembers what they’ve prescribed you in the past. Doctors are often busy and frazzled. When they prescribe a new medication, don’t hesitate to ask them about potential interactions as a reminder

4. Make sure all doctors are aware of your prescriptions – if you’re a senor who sees multiple doctors or specialists, don’t automatically expect that information regarding your prescriptions has been shared. This is where having a complete list can come in handy and avoid issues with polypharmacy

5. Check out new drugs – sticking with one pharmacy will allow your pharmacist to verify that there will be no drug interactions; they might catch something your doctor hasn’t. Otherwise, take the initiative to research any new drugs for interactions yourself

6. Be cautious of side effects – don’t assume any side effects are just that, talk to your doctor to ensure they aren’t the result of drug interactions

Via: CSA Connections

Image: osteoarthritis.about.com
Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

Some places come with a more stressful quality of life than others. If you’re considering a move from your Phoenix home to another part of the United States; there are a few things to evaluate to determine if your retirement will be enjoyable and stress-free.

1. Population and crowding – consider the population density in the area. The more populated it is, the more likely it becomes that there can be crime, petty problems between neighbors, and other factors that can influence your overall quality of life. If you’re looking for a quieter retreat where you can relax in privacy, avoid cities like Chicago (ranked the most stressful place to live) where crowding is high.

2. Employment – even in retirement, the level of unemployment in your area can affect your quality of life. You don’t need to be in the workforce for it to have an impact! Unemployment rates attest to the overall state of the economy.

3. Air quality and weather – the air quality can affect your overall health, which greatly impacts your quality of life, as well as your finances. Also choose a climate that brings you the most enjoyment.

4. Home values – with rising interest costs and decreasing home values, it can be a worry that you might lose your home in older adulthood or find it unaffordable. Low home values can also mean little equity when it comes time to sell. Choose a place to live where home values seem to be higher and holding strong.

Via: Yahoo! Real Estate

Image: money.aol.com

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

When I first started practicing yoga in my early 50s, some looked at me like I was crazy thinking that I was causing damage to my body and that I was just taking it up because it was trendy. No, it wasn’t a mid-life crisis; I know that yoga has extensive health benefits to people of all ages, including improved flexibility, muscular strength and better cardiovascular health. Despite the fact that it’s trendy, I’ve also tried to explain to the naysayers that yoga has been around for nearly 5,000 years and has a number of top yoga masters who are older. K.S. Iyengar, founder of the most popular form of yoga practiced today is 90 years old, and the yogi that helped bring yoga to the United States also belongs to the boomer generation.

I’m so confident about the health benefits of yoga for seniors that I’ve even encouraged my care recipient, who’s in her 80’s to try out a beginners yoga class for older adults, and once she got past the initial skepticism, she too is loving it!

Sources:

1. AARP

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

I spend 7 days a week with the Phoenix senior that I care for, and it can be challenging to come up with activities that we both enjoy, that also have benefits to his health based on his advanced age. One activity that we’ve found that is mutually enjoyable and has all the benefits is hiking outdoors in the many nice areas that can be found around Phoenix. We pack a lunch and often go out for the day, taking our time through the trails and stopping to look at the scenery and wildlife that we come across, often discussing the bird sounds we hear and trying to relate them to the species that we know can be found in the area.

Since my care recipient is in his 70’s, I always take added precautions when going out, because accidents can happen anywhere or anytime despite how careful we are. But with proper planning, even the unexpected can be managed, which is more of a concern when out in the middle of the wilderness. So for any other caregivers looking to introduce outdoor hiking to their care recipients, here are a few safety tips that I would recommend.

• Never hike alone – hiking with a friend, family member or caregiver ensures that there is someone there to help in an emergency. A hiking buddy can also help a senior get up steep slopes, or provide support over uneven terrain
• Plan ahead – study maps of the hiking area, and if taking a longer trip, leave a copy of your route with someone not attending the hike. Also check to make sure that the weather conditions will be good. Even bad weather days before the hike, like rain, can cause danger as there is likely to be slippery rocks or mud that can cause falls
• Dress appropriately – seniors should have sturdy hiking shoes appropriate for gripping the terrain. The hiking shoes or boots should be properly fitted to ensure that they provide added support and stability to a senior. Dressing in layers will also help to ensure comfort, regardless of weather or temperatures
• Pack a bag – water should be packed, and drank regularly throughout a hike. Extra clothing, bug spray, sunscreen, a snack, and a first aid kit are recommended

Sources:

1. Associated Content
2. Suite 101

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

Q – I suspect that my elderly grandfather, who has an elder care provider assisting him in his home in Phoenix might be a victim of home care negligence. He doesn’t seem to get along with his caregiver and is reluctant to look her in the eyes. I don’t want to make a big deal out of nothing, so what are the signs I can look for to determine if he’s a victim of negligence?

A – If you believe that your father in Phoenix might be a victim of negligence, or doesn’t get along with his caregiver. Don’t hesitate to talk to the caregiving agency about your suspicions and request another elder care expert to provide home care services. However, if you want to justify your concerns, there are other signs that could indicate your father is being neglected.

• Sudden changes in his behavior, such as becoming more withdrawn, depressed or angry

• Physical injuries like bruises, scrapes, cuts, or even broken bones

• The home care provider not allowing seniors to spend time alone with family members for fear something might be revealed

• Pressure sores or signs that restraints have been used

• Sudden, inexplicable weight loss in the senior

Sources:

1. Care Home Negligence
2. EZine Articles

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

Home care negligence is unfortunately a sad reality that exists in the Phoenix elder care industry. While negligence and elder abuse often occur at the hands of senior care providers in nursing homes and assisted living facilities; these problems can occur in a senior’s home just as easily. As family members of seniors, it’s important that we spot the signs when a loved one is being abused or neglected so that appropriate action can be taken and further issues can be prevented.

To determine if a senior in Phoenix might be suffering from elder abuse or neglect, be aware of the following signs:

•    Sudden changes in the senior’s behavior
•    Physical injuries like bruises, scrapes, cuts, or even broken bones
•    A nursing home not allowing family members to see patients alone
•    Pressure sores or signs that restraints have been used
•    Sudden, inexplicable weight loss in the senior

Home care negligence can include a number of scenarios that range from less severe to more extreme, but all are serious issues that should be addressed.

•    Failure to provide food or water, even when a senior complains of hunger or thirst
•    Failure to assist with personal hygiene needs
•    Failure to provide clean, safe living conditions
•    Failure to provide supervision in situations where accidents may occur
•    Failure to provide appropriate prescription medicals on time or at all

Sources:
1.    Care Home Negligence
2.    EZine Articles

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.

A major component of Phoenix home care involves ensuring that a senior remains safe in their own home, and since stairs present a major risk for in-home falls and accidents, this is one area that should be focused on for immediate senior safety. When looking at stair safety for the elderly, Phoenix caregivers and family members should focus on both the hardware and structure of the stairs, as well as the décor and lighting that surround the area. Complete the following checklist to ensure that your elderly loved one will be safe on their stairs.

Safe Stair Structure Checklist:
•    Steps are at least 11 inches deep and each step is even
•    Steps are not slanted or loose
•    Stair surfaces have slip resistant treads
•    Handrails are on one side of the stairs, if not both sides
•    Handrails are strongly fastened and supportive
•    Handrails and banisters are no thicker around than 6.25 inches so they can be easily grabbed
•    Indicators installed on handrails let seniors know when each step is coming to an end

Safe Stair Surrounds Checklist:
•    Stairways are well-lit
•    No objects are present on stairs
•    Tops and bottoms of stairways are free of rugs and mats that might slip
•    Assistive devices have been considered to help with mobility on stairs where appropriate

Sources:
1.    Ezine Articles  Daryl Lanhker
2.    Canada Safety Council

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.