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Hands & Hearts Blog

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Considering In Home Care? Tackle these Helpful Tips.

4/23/2020

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One of the hardest conversations adult children may have to endure with their aging parents is deciding on home care. Independence is such a luxury gained at a young age and many elders feel this slipping away. No matter how you decide to approach this topic or if you decide to go an alternate route such as assisted living or nursing home, there are considerations to take in for your those you love.
Let’s first take a glance at what exactly home care is. Home care covers an extensive range of services that allow seniors to stay in the comfort of their home as long as they’re able. These services may consist of running errands, house care, cooking and even dressing and bathing. Depending on the provider, medical assistance may be an option. Providers should have professional and trained employees who work varying shifts to meet your parent’s needs.
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Independence is an issue – and fully understood one – seniors may feel loosening from their grasp. However, home care providers understand this and do not want the elder to feel looked down upon or less dependent. Your provider of choice simply wants to help out in areas of need and some may even provide companion support which can ease any burden on children. In fact, your parent may feel more independent going out and running errands with someone beside them supporting them and providing suggestions and even laughs.
Other considerations to contemplate include: cost, availability, medical conditions/needs and social interaction. There may be more options to check out depending on your personal situation and you should always, always talk these over with a trusted provider. It’s a daunting task but your provider you choose should be there for you and answer any and all questions. If they can’t answer a question, they should be honest and find a solution.

Cost

Availability

Home care is actually a very economical solution for senior care depending on what you choose and how dramatic certain factors are. The size of the home, required services, distant from medical facilities are all options that affect cost. Also, the frequency of visits is another factor to take in. Companion care may be less than skilled professionals taking on more advanced tasks.
    The availability is often a 24/7 service but always research and look into the provider you choose. You may opt for a private caregiver you trust or opt for a company skilled in this area. Home healthcare is a growing work category so there is wide variety of providers to choose from. Research is very important.

Medical Needs

Home Care may be just and affordable for an elder who needs help with physical therapy, monitoring a chronic health condition, staying active or help around the home. Unfortunately, in some situations a long term stay-at-home solution is not practical or cost effective. Weighing available options and factoring in future healthcare needs are crucial to making the decision whether to stay at home. You can always talk with someone at Hands and Heart Home Care to discuss all needs and concerns!
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Social Interaction

    Isolation is never and should never be a result of home care. Your trusted provider of choice wants to ensure your loved one has a variety of social interaction they feel comfortable with. 
    Choosing an home care provider is not a light decision but the friendly and skilled professionals and Hands and Heart Home Care want to make sure your loved one is taken care of!
Call Us Today!
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Coping with COVID-19: Tips For Seniors to Stay Healthy

3/16/2020

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Protecting Your Health through Difficult Situations

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The saying ‘Health is Wealth’ has never been truer. With the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe, the health and well-being of the elderly is a precious commodity. As with other viruses and health concerns, it’s important to always take precautions to protect the most vulnerable which include the older population and those with weakened immune systems

Finding Helpful Information

For a complete list of the latest information and precautions, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.  All governmental guidelines will be addressed along with cases and data. The COVID-19, commonly known as Corona Virus, is a new disease and scientists are busy working on solutions for a cure

Staying Connected at a Distance

There are ways to cope with the overwhelming stress that stems from fear and anxiety with any health pandemic. Aside from the social distancing recommendations and hand washing precautions, it’s important to remember that any stress can potentially weaken the immune system. Take a break from the constant news streaming and turn off the television. This is a chance for anyone, especially older Americans, to do something that makes them happy.
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If the stress is too overpowering, please do not hesitate to tell a caregiver, friend or family member and seek immediate assistance. It’s also important to note if an older adult is experiencing any health concerns, to seek help. ​

Maintain Social Interactions

While many businesses have cut down hours or temporarily closed, the need for human connection is still a powerful necessity. Pick up the phone or find a way to electronically connect with someone. If you know of a friend or family member, take the initiative and connect over the phone or via social media. Keeping in touch with others can be a great benefit to one’s immunity.​

Enjoy the Peaceful Solitude

As mentioned before, turning off the news does wonderful benefits for one’s mind and soul. It’s important to stay up to date on what’s happening around the world but the 24/7 news stream is too much for anyone. Pick up a book, go for a walk or work the mind with a challenging puzzle. Whatever hobby or interest makes you happy, go do it. ​

Body, Mind, & Soul

​Finally, taking care of the mind, body and soul means nourishing yourself with nutritional meals, plenty of sleep and at least a half hour of activity. For anyone who knows of an elder who may need assistance, schedule a grocery delivery or call them with encouragement. If someone needs a medication refill, offer to go pick it up as long as you are in good health standing.
As news develops on the COVID-19, remember to check the CDC website for updates.  Check out our other Hands and Hearts Blog Posts for other helpful tips for Seniors!
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Showing Love for Seniors Year Round

2/13/2020

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February isn't the only month for showing you care!

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Love often takes center stage during the month of February but it is an emotion in need all year long. This strong emotion comes in many forms and it is one that doesn’t go away as one gets older. Grandparents and other seniors need the positive reaffirming embrace of love as anyone else deserves.
    Often times as children grow up and build families of their own, grandparents and other seniors may take a seat on the backburner. It’s not deliberate but sometimes it happens because of the busyness of life. Or, perhaps older adults don’t live close to family. Whatever the case, it’s important to spend some extra minutes or hours showing love languages to the older generation.

What are some ways to express appreciation to the folks who have always been there? Let’s examine some simple gestures and activities to keep the mindset of seniors alive and nourished. By the way, these don’t involve being a full-time caregiver but it only takes a small – albeit worthy – chunk of time and effort to let someone know you care.​​

Go on a Lunch Date

Call up a grandparent or an elder you care about and let them know you want to take them out to lunch. It can be a meal for anytime of the day or even just a coffee date. It’s important to schedule the date in advance because for the most part, seniors like to be prepared even if they aren’t working and have a leisure day. Oftentimes, there’s other appointments to work around.
    Make sure you let them know the lunch is on you. They may insist they pay but take charge and sneak up the register before the server has a chance to provide the bill at the table. Connect, laugh and eat and schedule the next date for the future. Don’t let this be a one-time event.
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Make Cookies

Get together with friends or family and make a batch of homemade treats (cookies, cake, or even healthier options) for your favorite elder. Make sure you take into consideration any nutritional needs such as diabetes. If baking is just not your thing, head to the store and pick up some sweet snacks

Volunteer

isit a senior center or assisted living facility and get to know someone new. Call ahead and ask what is needed. Often there are certain needs at every center and an activity director can point you in the right direction or have you sign up for a future event.
    If you are in a club, invite fellow members to join you. Oftentimes, the Christmas holidays may get overrun with volunteers but then the rest of the year is forgotten. Don’t let this happen. Let the director know of any special skills you may have so they can let you or your club shine.

​Listen

This may be vague but it is left up to your imagination. Loneliness is an ugly culprit that traps many older adults. Reach out to someone you love or check with a local retirement village or similar place. Just sitting and listening to their wisdom may benefit you more than you think.
Make time for the seniors in your life and make a priority to show love no matter how small. There’s only one life so we all need to make it well spent!  Our qualified In Home Caregivers are available to help show your loved one you care! Give us a call today at Hands and Hearts Home Care for more information.
803-470-4770
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Benefits of Keeping Seniors Social

12/19/2019

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Staying In Touch

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A positive and nurturing social life is an important foundation of life for people of all ages. Once someone embraces the golden years, it’s vital to keep friendships going. Whether a senior stays in touch with a lifelong friend or connects with someone new, the benefits are well worth it. Staying in community, no matter the size, keeps seniors young at heart and mentally sharp.
    There have been studies shown which prove a positive correlation between socialization and the overall health among the older population. It’s also important to note the contrary effects which erupt from social isolation among the aging. When seniors have healthy social connections, the levels of interleukin-6 has been found to be lower. Interleukin-6 is an inflammatory factor which may have implications in age-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even some forms of cancer.

Use the Buddy System

The health benefits of having a good buddy or even hanging out with grandchildren are not only mentally rewarding but physically beneficial. Lower blood pressure and reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis are a couple of ways to keep physical activity and hangouts going. Loneliness is also reduced when people are more engaged thus cutting down on depression.
Being surrounded by loved ones on a regular basis helps elders keep a positive outlook on life. It can be as simple as inviting the grandkids over and having cookies and ice cream or sipping coffee and playing chess with a neighbor or volunteer at the retirement center. The point is to make the outings more regular and not an once-in-a-lifetime activity.​

Be that Friend to a Senior

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It may be difficult for seniors to reach out and feel connected. If you have a loved one who needs positive social support, look to the local aging and recreational commission or senior center found in many counties. Also senior villages, retirement centers or nursing homes often have activities planned each month such as movie dates, shopping outings and fitness related events.
    There are an array of interactions to choose from and even more seniors in need of these interactions. So, lace up the bowling shoes or meet up for a cup of coffee and make someone’s day!
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Furry Friends for Older Adults

9/19/2019

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Having a pet can prove to be the best therapy and companion for anyone and for older adults.   Loneliness can be a factor for seniors especially if he or she is a widow or they live far from family. Pet ownership can mean companionship for those able to care for pets.  Studies prove that people who have pets as companions have happier spirits particularly if they live alone.

​However, caring for pets is no light matter and there are certain responsibilities to consider when considering a companion pet for eldery adults. One suggestion to keep in consideration is to not surprise an older senior with a pet. The idea may seem sweet but the the challenges that come along with pet ownership should be discussed before making the commitment to a furry companion.
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Choosing a Companion Pet

There are dog people, cat people and even bird people. It’s important to consider one’s personality and scope of responsibility the senior can invest. After all, an energetic puppy who needs to be potty-trained is probably not the right pet for someone coping with memory loss.
    Dogs tend to be people friendly but they also require daily walks and more attention. If the senior is fairly active, this may not be a problem. Cats (not kittens) are lower maintenance and often make excellent companions for senior adults. On a basic level, cats need food, a litter box and a few toys in addition to companionship.
    Birds can also prove valuable companions for seniors as long as a little insight goes into finding the right bird. Birds have their own space and can provide beautiful music. On a basic level, birds need a cage, paper changed out, water and food.
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How Much is Too Much?

The cost of choosing a companion pet is definitely a factor especially if the senior is on a limited income. When first choosing a pet, the starting expenses may be more costly but the routine expenses are not as high excluding vet visits.
    It’s important to consider adoption or purchase costs, spaying or neutering, vaccinations, a cage or crate and initial food and toys. The routine costs include items such as food, toys, vet visits, medications and grooming.
    Generally, larger animals require more money so this is important to consider. However, seniors can look into lower cost options with a trusted family member or friend. For example, a pet store or adoption place may prove to be less expensive for medicines or shots.
    The American Pet Products Association says routine vet visits cost dog owners $257 in 2017, while cat owners paid an average of $182. Basic food for either type of animal cost $235 last year.

Looking Into Alternatives

Let’s be real here. Sometimes, an elder adult is not able to care for a pet as much as he or she would enjoy the companionship. There are companies that provide therapy services. Adoption centers also welcome people to provide companion and play to dogs and cats waiting on their forever home.
    Pet stores also have animals in store waiting on adoption. A quick trip with a reliable source can prove to be a fun outing proven to lift spirits. Check with the local pet store and see what interactions are available.
    Whatever course of action you take, the result is a rewarding and positive experience.  Just remember to take all consequences into consideration before taking the leap.
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Hands and Hearts Caregivers

Much like pets, our compassionate caregivers can also provide companionship for your loved one.  Just having someone to chat with often brightens our patients' days.  If you'd like more information about our Caregiver Services, call us today to chat with a quality care provider!
Call 803-470-4770
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Selecting the Best Place for a Senior to Live

7/25/2019

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So Much to Consider!

Deciding where to live is a major decision for anyone and senior citizens are no exception. There are a vast array of options depending on the needs of the senior as well as affordability. Whether someone decides to continue living at his or her home, move closer to grandchildren or move to a retirement or senior village, this choice brings up many questions. 
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There are communities across the country where Baby Boomers can enjoy living fulfilling lives rich with engaging activity and connections. Living life beyond retirement is about having fun and living life to the fullest.
    Post-retirement life is more than just living in a nice home or center. It’s about being comfortable and enjoying these pivotal moments in the elder years. There are different living arrangements to explore as well as health and well-being to explore and activities to assess.
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To Move or Not To Move

The elder years don’t necessarily mean leaving the comfort of one’s nest. You have the option to stay at home, move to a more ideal location or move closer to children and grandchildren. Don’t be mistaken that seniors have limited options when it comes to real estate. Senior citizens are eligible for mortgages like anyone else. Income and credit score do play a role, so it never hurts to speak with an advisor.
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According to the Federal Trade Commission, elderly people are protected against discrimination from receiving a loan or any sort of credit based on age. It’s called the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, a federal law which protects borrowers against bias based on age, race, color, religion and a variety of other biases.
   While the opportunity is available, it’s also best to get advice before selecting any loan as predatory mortgage lenders are out there ready to consume anyone willing to take a bite. Consult with a trustworthy source always.

    One type of loan available to elders is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage which is also a popular option for seniors who are current homeowners and over 62 years. As long as they have paid off or most of the current mortgage, they are eligible to participate in the program.

Residing & Living Together

Sometimes, those in or above the Baby Boomer age either don’t wish to or aren't able to deal with a mortgage later in life. This is where senior living and assisted living comes into play. There are different levels depending on the care needed.
    These types of living arrangements include: assisted living, independent living, nursing homes, memory care, 55+ communities and home care. Of these options, Memory care, assisted living and nursing homes are for those with higher needs. Home care allows elderly to stay in the comfort of their home while receiving support in their home through an agency dedicated to caring for seniors. The 55+ communities are independent living villages with an array of activities on sight such as golf, swimming and other resort style activities all within reach. Independent living are for those who can still maintain their lifestyles on their own but want to live on their own without the upkeep of owning a home. This is almost like apartment living.
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CALL (803) 470-4770

Hands & Hearts is Here for You!

Whatever decision one arrives at, it’s important to always research and always get second and third opinions to companies that may be aiming to take advantage of seniors. Talk it through with loved ones and consult trusted sources. And remember to continue living your best life!  Feel free to give us a call at Hands and Hearts Home care and speak with one of our care specialists if you have questions about our In Home Care solutions for your loved one!
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Stay Cool Summer Tips for Seniors

5/24/2019

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South Carolina is known for their Famously Hot summers but when it comes to the heat index and the elderly, it’s important to stay in the shade. Older adults are more likely to get exhausted and stressed from high temperatures. In addition to their bodies not adjusting well to the high heat, there are also chronic medical conditions and prescription medicine effects to consider.
    If you or someone you know is 65 and over, take heed of the daily temperature and always take precautions for protection. The last thing anyone wants is to ride in an ambulance to the hospital. Check out these following tips for a safe and healthy summer!

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Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Drinking water is one rule that never tires or goes out of style. That’s because water is essential for keeping the body regulated and it keeps it from running on empty. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty or parched to drink water.
    It’s important to keep in mind certain medications or water pills prescribed by doctors. If this is the case, always consult a physician for info on how much water to drink during the hot, summer months.

Stick close to Air Conditioning!

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Always aim to stay inside where it’s air-conditioned. If the home or place of residence doesn’t have proper air conditioning, contact the local health department or move to a place that does have a functioning AC unit. Tell someone if you or someone you know doesn’t have proper cooling because staying cool is vital to your health.     Also, a properly running AC unit is better than a fan in many cases as fans can only cool so much.

​Stay Rested

​Engaging in strenuous activities during the hot summer months can only heighten temperatures and put seniors at a health risk. Rest as much as possible but this doesn’t mean one must be immobile. Movie theaters and air-conditioned stores are always alternatives to keep the elderly busy but still cool.

Select Cool Wardrobe Options

Dark colors and tight fitting clothes may not be the best option for elderly trying to keep their body temperatures cooled. Wear loose fitted clothes and white or light colors are bound to be more comfortable especially if venturing outside. If outside, try to stay in the shade as much as possible and wide-brimmed hats or ball caps are perfect summer essentials.
    When headed outside, morning and evening are the best times to be outside since that is when the temperatures are cooler. Remember, there’s no reason to curl in like a hermit crab but taking necessary precautions can be life-saving.

​Stay Informed

Check the daily weather and stay tuned to alerts of high heats. Heat related illnesses include: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn and heat rashes. You can find symptoms on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Remember: heat related illnesses are preventable as long as seniors follow some simple rules. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are commonly mistaken for. In a nutshell, people suffering from heat stroke have temperature above 103, loss of consciousness, fast pulse and hot, red or dry skin. Heath exhaustion is when there is a lot of sweat, cold or clammy skin, nausea or vomiting. There may also be dizziness or an overall weakness.
Always keep in touch with elderly family and friends and check in on them to ensure they are safe and healthy. Whether senior citizens live at home or in a community, health and safety is important to keep in check.  Our Hands and Hearts Home Caregivers will also help make sure your loved one has a cool and comfortable summer!  Give us a call for a consultation today!
Call 803-470-4770
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5 Ways to Feel Younger in 2019

3/21/2019

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Leading a healthy and active lifestyle is important for every stage of life. Whether it’s practicing tummy time as an infant or keeping your joints limber and muscles strong, physical and mental health is essential for everyone, especially as you age. ​
In 1914, the average child born in the United States had an average life expectancy of about 55 years but today’s children can expect to live closer to 80 years. Obviously, the more active a person is the longer they can expect to live.

Being healthy doesn’t mean you’re a 70-year-old who finished a marathon. Remember, being active looks different on everyone. However, when you do engage more activity into your lifestyle your independence is also more likely to thrive.​
According to a recent healthy study by Harvard University, independence for the elderly has a multitude of descriptions. It is essentially the ability to perform basic activities of daily living without help. These include: walking, eating, bathing, getting out of bed or playing with grandchildren. Walking without any assistance is something that many aging people find helpful for maintaining their independence as long as possible.  Here are 5 ways to boost your energy level, become more social, and Feel Younger in 2019:

1. Explore Physical Activity Programs

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One way to explore a variety of physical activity programs is checking out local organizations or centers which provide specific programs for seniors. A bonus is that by participating in local centers, you’ll make friends and boost your mental health as well. Positive mental health and having one or a few friends may be a possible deterrent to dementia like symptoms.  
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You can check out places such as your local hospital, fitness and recreation centers, churches and community centers.  Some non-profit organizations may even cater to your specific age group or need.

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2.  Grow A Garden

It can be as simple as planting some flowers on your porch or you could have an herb garden. How extravagant you tend to your plants and vegetables is up to your ability to do so. This is wonderful to do solo or have grandchildren help out especially when it comes to more intense work or kneeling.

3. Tailor Your Diet to Your Nutritional Needs

Adjust your diet or ensure you’re eating enough and properly. Nutrition is important to ensure overall health and this will look different for you depending on what other health issues are ongoing. A panel of health and nutrition experts ranked the 35 top diets for seniors and the top ones were diets rich in produce and lean protein. The 'Mediterranean' was also a top recommended diet.
     It’s important to eat for your mind and health. Weight loss is not necessarily a goal for the elderly. Rather, many seniors need to focus on the right nutritional needs to reduce the risk for chronic disease. On another note, don’t deprive yourself of a sweet treat because life really is a delicate balance.

4. Go to Lunch with a Friend

Catch up with a lifetime friend or make plans with a new friend. This is for better emotional health but oftentimes when our emotional health is neglected, it can possibly lead to a downward spiral involving your physical health.

5. Volunteer

Now that you’re most likely retired, now is the time to volunteer with an organization or participate in something that has always piqued your interest. Volunteer with younger people and be a mentor or find a group or project that spikes your interest. This will keep you active for your overall health and you’ll feel better contributing to society.
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When older adults are physically more active and have some sort of exercise routine, their ability to walk and navigate other activities is considerably higher than elderly who are more sedentary. However, it’s never too late to make changes even if they are small changes. 
    It’s important to note you should consult with your physician before starting any new physical activity or making changes to your routine. He or she know your strengths and weaknesses and can dictate what is needed or desired.
What ways are you aiming to live a healthy lifestyle this year?  Let us know in the comments and be sure to ‘Subscribe’ to our blog for monthly health and wellness tips!
CALL (803) 470-4770
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Choosing In Home Care over Assisted Living Facilities

9/12/2018

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Things to consider when choosing an In Home Care Provider.

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Will the care you can receive in your home be sufficient or would it be better to live in an assisted living facility?  This is a consideration for many adults as we grow older.  Between the need to be mobile to visit the doctor or maneuvering around your home, aging seniors often face many challenges and evaluating one’s specific care needs is both necessary and important.

Fortunately, changes and improvements in medical technology and equipment afford us new possibilities that improve senior care within the home, making in home caregivers more accessible. Hands and Hearts Home Care is a licensed businesses that provides care for your loved one from the comfort of their own home. We can provide and non-medical care. Personal care--another term for non-medical care--includes aiding in the activities of daily living, such as meal preparation, dressing and bathing, medication reminders and more with the help of our qualified and compassionate in home caregivers.

The kinds of treatment as well as assistance solutions that could be provided in the home is very broad, varying from healthcare, and checking blood pressure, and basic aid with the activities of everyday living, like preparing meals, as well as aiding with bathing and also grooming. Non-medical caregivers can also supply support with the critical activities of daily living, such as grocery shopping, household chores, and running errands.

Our caretakers offer a vast array of non-medical care. We are able to drive the care recipient around for consultations, tasks, as well as social activities. We can change light bulbs, pick up groceries, or take the care recipient to the theater for a show. The versatility of assistance that our caretakers can provide is often the very reason families will choose to work with an us!
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What are Assisted Living Homes?

Assisted living residences are ideal for individuals who need hardly any senior care each day. This suggests that many aided living homes provide care recipients with some assistance achieving numerous tasks such as arranging medicines, but they do not offer permanent long-lasting care. These facilities primarily cater to mobile individuals over the age of 65.
Individuals bound to a wheelchair, or who struggle with mental or behavioral problems are normally discouraged from relocating to a nursing home given that they require more specialized treatment. While many patients move from assisted living into nursing homes, some are able to return home after receiving the care they need.

What is In Home Care?

In Home Care is among the most rapidly growing and also most requested care solutions for seniors in the US today. Agencies supplying at home care offer a variety of various services from care companionship to supervision and also hygiene care. In-home caregivers are ideal for people that wish to remain at their own home, yet additionally require continuous care that relative and friends aren’t able to supply.
It allows elders to age in the familiar surroundings of their own home. Most at home treatment strategies include a combination of assisted living, or non-medical, services as well as skilled healthcare services.

Non-Medical Care Typically Includes:

  • Individual treatment
  • Companionship
  • Supervision
  • Washing
  • Light housekeeping
  • Meal preparation
  • Medication pointers
  • Purchasing
  • Household Chores
  • Transportation
Insurance provider and in-home care companies often utilize a person's ADL (Activities of Daily Living) score to identify the demands of that individual. ADL rankings are based upon 6 fundamental activities that show a person's abilities to offer self-care. These tasks are:
  • Walking
  • Bathing
  • Transferring
  • Dressing
  • Eating
  • Going to the bathroom
Insurance companies evaluate these needs to establish a person's eligibility for insurance benefits. We use them as tools to determine services needed as well as to guarantee certified caretakers are designated to fulfill the individual's needs. IADL, or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, makes use of six tasks that figure out the capacity of an individual to survive on their very own in the house.

These Six Tasks Are:
  • Taking care of individual finances
  • Medication
  • Making Phone Calls
  • Purchasing food and clothing
  • Minor housework
  • Cooking & Meal Prep​

Identifying Your Loved One's Care Needs

Prior to you make any care choices, you need to determine the precise demands of your loved one. When you comprehend their circumstances, you can evaluate the help that is already available. Begin with listing exactly what your loved one requires help with on a month-to-month, daily, and weekly basis. This will offer you a clear snapshot  of the amount of treatment needed. Take into consideration the amount of assistance you, your family, friends and neighbors can provide. Be sure to identify long term needs as well. 

At Hands and Hearts Home Care, Staying at Home is an Option!  We are dedicated to providing the best, most comfortable care within your loved one’s home.  If you have any other questions about the services we provide, give us a call and our staff will be glad to assist you in making the best choice for your care patient!
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Identifying and Addressing Elder Abuse & Neglect

2/27/2018

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Elder abuse is defined as maltreatment of an older person.  Many
elder abuse victims are frail, cannot help themselves and depend
on others to provide for their basic needs.   Professionals as well as family members can be
abusive or neglectful, even if they don’t always appear to be.  Often the signs are not recognized, and therefore the abuse or neglect is not reported.  Since the elderly are the people we frequently care for, it is important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms.  
There are several types of elder abuse and it is possible for any of
them to occur anywhere.  Some of the most common include the following:
Neglect:  Neglect means refusing to provide the care needed to keep the person
safe and failing to provide basic necessities. This can include failure to
provide food, water, medicines, personal care, clothing, or access to medical
care.  Signs of neglect may include:  Poor hygiene, weight loss or dehydration.
Physical abuse:  Physical abuse means the use of physical force that may result in
bodily injury or pain.  It includes such things as hitting, slapping, pinching,
kicking, shoving, shaking, or restraining someone against his or her
will.  Physical abuse is the second most common type of elder abuse.
Family members, staff or other residents could cause
harm, and it’s important to be on the lookout.  Signs of physical abuse may include:
Bruises, black eyes, new injuries, welts rope marks or burns.
Financial exploitation:  Financial exploitation means abusing the elder by
illegally or improperly using the person’s money or property without his or her consent. Financial exploitation is the third most common form of elder abuse. This
could include: Forged signatures, disappearance of valuables or illegal withdrawal of funds.
Psychological: Also called emotional abuse means causing mental anguish, distress, and fear without using physical methods. Psychological abuse is the fourth most common form of elder abuse.  The incidence is likely to be much higher since this type of abuse is harder to recognize and less likely to be reported. It can include such things as insulting, threatening,
humiliating, or screaming at the person.  It can also include ignoring the person, giving the “silent treatment,” or keeping the older person away from friends or activities.
Signs of psychological abuse include:  Being fearful, upset, agitated, not talking, showing childish behavior such as thumb sucking or rocking back and forth.
Sexual abuse: Sexual abuse means non-consensual (unwanted and unwelcome) sexual contact of any kind. It is much less common than other types of elder abuse.  Signs of sexual abuse include: Bruising around the genitals or breasts, vaginal or rectal bleeding or stained underclothing or bedding.
Elder abuse, like other forms of violence and abuse, is a very complex issue. Almost always, elder abuse is a result of many different factors.  While there is never an
excuse for abusing the elderly, there are some factors that seem to play a role. Knowing these factors can help you identify situations in which abuse may be more
likely to occur. They include the following:
1. Caregiver stress: Caring for frail, older people is a difficult task, and can be stressful. We however, have the benefit of education in dealing with the elderly and their
needs.  Most family members do not have such training and they are not really
prepared to deal with the tasks that are required.  This can lead to increased stress and frustration and contribute to the likelihood of neglect or physical abuse.
2. Mental and physical condition of the elder:  Elders in health are much more likely to be abused than those in relatively good health who are more independent in caring for themselves. Many adult children have difficulty dealing with incontinence and having to clean up their parent.
3. Family history of violence: Some families tend to respond to stress with violence. If the caregiver has learned from childhood that violence is acceptable behavior, he or she is much more likely to abuse the elder family member.  It may be that the caregiver has not learned other methods of dealing with stress and conflict. This is particularly true if the elder previously abused the child who is now in the role of caregiver for the person who abused him or her.
4. Personal problems of the abuser:  Abusers of the elderly have more personality problems and/or personal problems.  Be sure to:  Listen to your clients.  If the client tells you that
he or she is being mistreated by family members or others, report it to your supervisor as soon as possible.  Know the factors that may increase the possibility of elder abuse.  Learn the signs of elder abuse and watch for them in our clients.  Describe any bruises or injuries you may see, not what you think may have caused them. Do not make assumptions.
If you observe what you suspect to be verbal abuse or neglect by a family member or staff member, seek the advice of your supervisor.  Immediately report to your supervisor anything that makes you suspect elder abuse.  Do not confront any family members if you suspect abuse.   Do not tell them you plan to report them to your supervisor.  Do not take signs of abuse lightly.  If an elderly client tells you he or she is being badly treated, never promise them that you won’t tell anyone.  In most states, healthcare professionals are required by law to report suspected cases of abuse.
It is important to note, elderly adults have the right to make decisions about their own lives.  If they are mentally competent, they can refuse an investigation from Adult Protective Services or other agencies.  If the client refuses an investigation into the abuse, do
not feel that you were wrong in reporting it.   Your report is important even if the resident
refuses any help.
Lastly, as a reminder:  You can help prevent abuse and neglect by listening to your client, intervening when abuse or neglect is suspected and educating your clients
and caregivers on how to recognize abuse and neglect

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