Most nurses can attest to the frustration felt when going through a medication reconciliation with an elderly patient. Oftentimes the elderly patient will come to the ER with a pill box and no idea of what medications it contains. They may simply be able to recognize certain pills based on color and size. They may…
When a loved one is struggling with daily chores and self-care, some difficult decisions lie ahead. One way to lighten his load, keep him safe and help him living at home is to hire a home healthcare services provider. Finding a qualified, compassionate and trustworthy person to bring into your loved one’s home is serious…
Taking care of an aging parent, spouse, or loved one at home is challenging—some moments more-so than others. For instance, you and your elderly loved one may not agree on a bathing schedule. Often the elderly are resistant in this area. Bathing a parent or loved one can also be uncomfortable, and even embarrassing, for…
Becoming a caretaker is almost always a rewarding experience. Being able to care for a loved one who needs you is an enriching and satisfying feeling. However, taking on the role of permanent or even part-time caregiver for a family member can quickly turn negative. It can bring on feelings of immense stress, helplessness, anger,…
If you have retired or have retired early to take care of a loved one full-time, you might be interested in “consulteering.” Consulteering is when you use your consulting skills on a volunteer basis. “It’s my trifecta. Paid work, giving back, and relaxation. I call it ‘consulteering’, said Dane Peters.” Dane Peters, a seasoned educator and…
In recent years, Americans have witnessed a drastic change in the way we care for our elders and our children. The average family size has become smaller, and many of us find ourselves living extended distances from our aging parents. Add to the mix the increasing number of households that require multiple full-time incomes, and…
It may be difficult to face, but the time may come when having assistance at home becomes a must. This could be due to illness or injury. It may even be a result of the natural process of aging, but when it hits, understanding whether or not it’s finally time for in home healthcare services…
Being a caregiver is a very fulfilling and worthwhile task. However, sometimes, in the day-to-day challenges that arise, it can be easy to lose sight of that and let the stress and frustration get the best of you. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out…. and you’re not alone. Here are 8…
Elderproof for Safety When you have a loved one coming home to live with you, or you are helping prepare their home when returning from a hospital or rehab stay, you need to ensure that they come home to a safe environment. You must elderproof for safety when preparing your home for an elderly loved…
Change in the Elderly When caring for aging parents or loved ones, a related question might be how to help them adopt new habits when you’re not always there to observe their behavior and offer encouragement—or if they resist making the change. How do we help an elderly loved one overcome a habit that’s bad…