Senior Helpers In Home Elder Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Encourages You to Plan Now To Head Off Problems Later With Aging Parents

Prepare for the Future of Your Aging Loved Ones

At some point our aging loved ones may not be completely able care for themselves. If that time comes a whole array of issues need to be addressed. We’ll probably need to provide some kind of help on a regular basis, whether we live close or not. It may be finding them a housekeeper or ensuring they get to their doctor appointments.

Often it gets to the point when much more than temporary or occasional help is needed. If your parent has a terminal, progressive or even chronic condition that requires round-the-clock care, what options are available? What if you are an only child or the only sibling in the family who can supply this type of help?

Blood might be thicker than water, but not all people are prepared or ready to step up and provide this level of care. If you’re married with your own family, this also needs to be taken into consideration. Your entire family must be on board with the decisions that are being made. Even with one dissenter, there will be serious issues. Yes, it is true: not everybody always wants grandma to move in. Your youngsters may not want to give up their family room to turn it into a bedroom.

Will all family members have responsibilities? No one can be there all day long. Not everyone wants to readjust his life permanently, if it requires a major sacrifice.

Besides the major issues of having someone move in, there are many other points to consider and address. Is she bedridden? Does she have convulsions; need special medication; have a special diet; or need help getting to the bathroom? What if she’s incontinent? Who cleans her; changes her clothes; and washes the bedding?

Everyone must be on the same page. Even though it’s your parent, you can’t possibly be there twenty-four hours a day. You need help. Will your partner help you? Typically, better halves already have enough to do. They don’t want the extra burden of caring for someone else. When people reach the point when they aren’t able to live by themselves, their routine needs translate into a lot of work for their “adoptive” caregivers. Cooking, cleaning, medications, personal hygiene and additional expenses can be more than some families can handle.

Be proactive. Long before your mom and dad reach old age, have frank discussions about what they expect and how these expectations will be met. They might just assume that their children will take care of them when the time comes, regardless of what the circumstances may be. It could be a shock to learn that alternatives might need to be considered.

At Senior Helpers we can help reduce the stress when care is needed. Contact us today to be prepared for the future of your aging loved ones.

Article Contributed By: Long Term Care Insurance Guide

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

 

 

 

Senior Helpers In Home Elder Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Cautions Families to Look Out for Elderly for Home Safety Awareness Month

The home is the second most common location of accidental, fatal injuries

(Stamford, Connecticut – June 2011) – One third of all injuries in the United States happen accidentally at home.  Seniors over the age of 70 are among the highest risk group of unintentional home injury, both fatal and non-fatal.  Senior Helpers of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut (CT), one of the leading in-home providers of senior care in southwest Connecticut, is promoting June as Home Safety Awareness Month. 

“Seniors over the age of 80 are twenty times more likely (than the younger generation) to have an accident at home turn deadly,” says Tim Daniels with Senior Helpers of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut (CT).  “Just like you baby proof your home for an infant, you must take extra steps to provide a save home environment for your elderly loved one.  This isn’t difficult, but, oftentimes, it takes a trained eye to recognize danger zones for the elderly; that’s how our caregivers can help.”

Top Five Leading Causes of Senior, Accidental Home Injury Death:

1.  . . Falls

2.  . . Fire/Burn

3.  . . Poisoning

4.  . . Natural/Environmental (such as extreme heat/cold or a natural disaster)

5.  . . Choking/Suffocation

Fall Prevention:

Falls alone account for 52.5% of all home injury deaths for adults age 65-74.  That percentage spikes by more than 25% for seniors age 85 and older. Below are some vital tips to follow to prevent your senior from taking a fall in or around the home:

• . . . Have handrails on BOTH sides of stairs and grab bars in bathrooms.

……..1/3 of households in America with stairs DO NOT have banisters or handrails.

……..Only 19% of households in America have grab bars in tubs/showers.

• . . . Have a lot of light at the top and bottom of stairs.  Also, keep hallways well lit.

• . . . Paint the bottom basement step white to make it more visible.

• . . . Secure rugs to the floor to prevent tripping.

• . . . Outside – be sure to check steps and walkways for loose bricks, cement or stone.

Fire/Burn Prevention:

• . . . Always stay in the kitchen while cooking.  And, roll up your sleeves when cooking/baking.

• . . . Keep things that can burn, such as dishtowels or curtains, at least three feet from the range.

• . . . Test fire alarms monthly.  Install fire alarms on every level of your home, specifically near or inside all bedrooms.

• . . . Consider having a fire sprinkler system installed in your home.

• . . . Keep outside grills at least 10 feet away from the house and any bushes.

• . . . Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn.

• . . . Have chimneys, fireplaces, stoves and central furnaces inspected once a year.  Clean as needed.  Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace.

• . . . Keep your water heater set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.  Remember, seniors have thinner skin than middle-aged adults and can burn more easily.

“Studies show that seniors would much rather live at home versus in a nursing home, so home safety is the key to accident prevention,” says Daniels of Senior Helpers of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut (CT).  “Sometimes seniors may take offense if family members try to safety proof their home. That’s why it often makes sense to bring in a third party, like a professional caregiver, to make changes so there are no hard feelings in the family.”

Sources: Home Safety Council, State of Home Safety Report, D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation

Media Contact: Tim Daniels, (203) 564-1591, tdaniels@seniorhelpers.com

For more information about Senior Helpers, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909

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About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

 

Senior Helpers In Home Elder Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Offers Suggestions for Safer Senior Driving

Driving Safety For Older Adults

Through 45 years of driving, Ellen never had an accident. But last month, the 76-year-old was involved in two minor collisions, receiving a traffic citation for one. Ellen worries that she is not as good a driver as she once was. And she has read recent newspaper stories about accidents involving older drivers.

79-year-old Gregory’s children worry that with his poor night vision, it isn’t safe for him to drive at night any more. But Mom doesn’t drive, and the couple doesn’t want to give up the theater or their weekly bridge games with friends.

For most Americans, the automobile represents independence, control and mobility. We couldn’t wait to get our first driver’s license and access to the family car when we were teenagers, and we’d like to keep driving as long as possible. But the normal changes of aging can make driving more challenging. Impediments to safe driving include:

•. . . hearing loss,

•. . . vision problems,

•. . . decreased reaction time,

•. . . memory loss,

•. . . limited manual dexterity,

•. . . loss of depth perception and peripheral vision.

Older adults and their families should assess driving ability periodically, both to determine ways of improving driving skills, and to evaluate whether the individual is still capable of safely operating a motor vehicle.

Making Changes for Safer Driving

There are several good ways seniors can improve driving skills and extend safe driving capability:

•. . . If the car is large and difficult to maneuver, consider trading it for a smaller car, which might be easier to handle and park.

•. . . Have regular eye examinations.

•. . . Take a refresher driving course for seniors, such as the “55 Alive Classes” which are offered through insurance companies and senior groups.

•. . . When filling any prescriptions, ask the doctor or pharmacist if the medications have any potential side effects that could hinder the ability to drive.

•. . . Make modifications to the vehicle itself for enhanced driving safety. For example, improved side and rear-view mirrors, a rear-window brake light, a back-up warning buzzer, steering wheel grips, and pedal adjustments.

•. . . Avoid the most challenging driving situations. If night vision has diminished, schedule car trips during daylight hours. Avoid busy highways and rush hour traffic.

Is it Time to Give Up the Car?

There may come a point when the changes of aging make it difficult and risky to keep driving. Some older drivers become increasingly nervous about their driving ability and, consequently, become less mobile in the community. Some keep driving until an incident occurs – a scare, a minor accident or worse – and then quit driving, abruptly, without having made plans for what they will do without the car. And others are in denial, refusing to face up to limitations until family members or the department of licensing step in.

It doesn’t have to be that way. When you first begin to have concerns about driving ability, that is the time to begin planning a post-driving strategy. Think of this as just another aging challenge to be addressed, and then use your best problem-solving skills to keep your loved one active and mobile.

The first thing to do when discussing driving safety is to add up all the costs of owning and maintaining a car. Car payments, insurance, repairs, gasoline, parking fees-all these should go into the calculation. For most people, the total is considerable. Think of those dollars as money available for alternative transportation.

Once you’ve calculated the “transportation allowance,” begin to investigate the alternatives:

•. . . Bus or rapid transit

•. . . Taxi cabs

•. . . Carpooling with family, friends or volunteers

•. . . Special transportation for seniors and people with disabilities

With this kind of planning, many seniors lose their anxiety over giving up driving. It still may not be easy, but having a workable plan for getting around is a major step forward. If a loved one is resisting giving up driving, be creative in your approach. You might try suggesting that your loved one:

•. . . leave the car in the garage for a while and see how he or she gets along not using it;

•. . . set a trial period during which your loved one will try out transportation options;

•. . . consider giving the car as a gift to a favorite charity or to a grandchild;

•. . . investigate selling the car and setting the money aside for a transportation fund.

Help your loved one make a plan for being a non-driver if that time comes. Be proactive; don’t wait for circumstances to make decisions for you. Giving your loved one an extra margin of safety is the right thing to do for other drivers on the road, and it can, above all, be a gift to your loved one, yourself and family!

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

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About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Elder Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Offers Plan to Improve Home Safety and Security for Older Adults

Help Protect the Elderly from Inside Hazards and Outside Threats

Did you know that of the three million Americans age 65 and older who are involved in accidents every year, a majority were injured right in their own homes?

The good news is that many of these accidents can be prevented. With a small investment of time and effort, you can help protect yourself or your loved one from dangers in the home.

A Five Step Plan for Protecting Against Accidents

There is no magic formula for avoiding mishaps in the home. But advanced planning and taking proactive steps can lower the risk. Here is a simple plan to follow for making safety a greater priority:

1. Make a conscious effort to understand the special risks and vulnerability of older adults. Take into consideration changes in balance, strength, and eyesight, as well as use of medications that might cause dizziness or drowsiness.

2. Perform a home safety assessment. Do a careful walk-through of the home, making note of what needs to be repaired or modified. (Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Senior Fall Prevention project to download the “Home Safety Checklist for Older Adults”).

3. Be sensitive to potential problems. For example, spilling water on the floor or leaving small toys around can be safety issues anywhere. In the home of an older friend or relative, such carelessness can be especially dangerous.

4. Follow up by dealing with the risks found during the inspection. This could be as simple as doing some home improvements or repairs yourself. It might involve arranging for some professional help. Put high-risk problems at the top of the list for immediate action.

5. Perform a periodic follow-up inspection. Needs and situations change, so don’t take safety for granted.

Home Safety & Security for Older Adults

Did you know that of the three million Americans age 65 and older who are involved in accidents every year, a majority were injured right in their own homes?

The good news is that many of these accidents can be prevented. With a small investment of time and effort, you can help protect yourself or your loved one from dangers in the home.

Home Security

Unfortunately, older adults are easy targets for burglary and assault. Statistically, they are victimized more often than other age groups. Here are several ways to make the home more secure:

• . . . All doors and windows should lock securely.

• . . . Exterior lighting should be ample. Cut back shrubbery if necessary to improve visibility from the street and neighboring homes.

• . . . All exterior doors should have view holes so occupants do not need to open the door if they don’t know who is on the other side.

• . . . There should be at least one phone on every floor in the home and a phone by the bedside for emergencies; keep cell phone charged.

• . . . Emergency numbers should be clearly written out and taped on or next to the phone.

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

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About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Elder Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Challenges Assumptions About the Pain of Older Adults

Myths & Facts About Pain & Older Adults

You have probably heard the cliché: “Old age is not for sissies.” Most of us assume that as we grow older, we will experience more discomfort, due to arthritis, osteoporosis, and other chronic illnesses. But how much of this assumption is true? Take this quiz to find out how much you know about this important challenge of successful aging! (Answers at bottom.)

Myth or Fact?

1. Pain is a normal part of aging.

2. It would be great to eliminate all pain!

3. Sometimes pain is caused by injury to the nerves themselves.

4. Pain can be “all in your head.”

5. Medication is the only treatment that can relieve pain.

6. Antidepressant medications can be effective in treating pain.

7. Because of the danger of addiction, many pain medications should be avoided.

8. Older adults are less likely than younger people to ask their healthcare providers for pain relief.

9. The recommended dosage of pain medication remains the same as we age.

10. To protect the joints, a person with arthritis pain should not exercise.

Answers to Myths & Facts About Pain & Older Adults

1. Pain is a normal part of aging.

Myth. Although older adults are more likely to experience pain, it is not a “symptom” of aging, and should not be considered as inevitable.

2.   It would be great to eliminate all pain!

Myth. Pain is a signal to the brain that something threatens the well-being of the body. It is the mechanism that warns us of injury or illness. Without it, we could not survive.

3. Sometimes pain is caused by injury to the nerves themselves.

Fact. Sometimes the nerves send “false signals” that something is wrong with a body part or organ. Damage to the nerves, spinal cord, and brain can cause this persistent pain.

4. Pain can be “all in your head.”

Myth…and Fact. While most pain is the result of physical causes, how we think about pain can make a difference. Stress and anxiety magnify our perception of pain, which leads to more stress and anxiety. But the cycle can be broken through pain control techniques.

5. Medication is the only treatment that can relieve pain.

Myth. There are many other options for pain treatment–physical therapy, massage, exercise, regional anesthesia, relaxation training, yoga, and biofeedback, to name a few.

6. Antidepressant medications can be effective in treating pain.

Fact. Low doses of antidepressants can be especially effective against nerve pain, possibly because they affect the chemical reaction of nerve cells.

7. Because of the danger of addiction, many pain medications should be avoided.

Myth. Certain medications (morphine, codeine, and related drugs) can cause physical dependency, and are prescribed with caution. But researchers now believe that these drugs can have a positive impact on quality of life when used exclusively for the treatment of pain.

8. Older adults are less likely than younger people to ask their healthcare providers for pain relief.

Fact. While older adults are the most likely to experience pain, they are the group that is least likely to ask for help. This can stem from the mistaken belief that they are “just getting old,” or “don’t want to be a bother.” In reality, treating pain can improve the quality of life for older adults, and preserve function and independence.

9. The recommended dosage of pain medication remains the same as we age.

Myth. Decreased kidney function may cause substances to be excreted more slowly, which could allow a toxic dose to build up. Side effects of medications are also more common in older adults. And for people taking drugs for multiple conditions, it’s important that the pharmacist and healthcare provider have a complete list of all their medications, to avoid harmful interactions.

10. To protect the joints, a person with arthritis pain should not exercise.

Myth. Exercise is actually the most important treatment for controlling pain and preventing disability in people with conditions such as arthritis. Increased strength and flexibility bring a better blood supply to muscles and joints. The person’s healthcare provider can “prescribe” an appropriate exercise program.

Untreated pain can cause a significant decline in the well-being and quality of life of older adults, resulting in fatigue and depression, anxiety, withdrawal from social life, and reduced ability to perform the activities of daily living. So if you or someone you know is experiencing chronic pain, it is important to work with the healthcare provider to determine the most effective treatment. Pain relief is an essential part of good healthcare!

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

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About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Discusses Common Foot Problems

Causes and Care

Corns and calluses are thick layers of dead skin cells caused by repeated friction and pressure from shoes. If the first signs of soreness are ignored, corns and calluses rise up as nature’s way of protecting sensitive areas. However, the pressure of this hard mass on sensitive nerves in the skin can be painful. At the first sign of tenderness, pads placed on the skin around the calluses will help protect the area. (Pads over the callus will increase the pressure.)

A bunion is a deformity at the big toe joint. It occurs when the big toe slants outward at an angle and becomes swollen or tender. Bunions can be inherited, or caused by wearing shoes that are too narrow in the forefoot. Sometimes bunions are a sign of developing arthritis in older people. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms.

Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. Painful itching between toes, cracked or scaly skin, small blisters and red, irritated skin patches are usually signs of athlete’s foot or other fungal or bacterial conditions. The best way to help prevent athlete’s foot infection is to keep feet clean and dry with a daily washing. Be especially careful to dry between toes. Use a foot powder to help feet stay drier through the day.

Ingrown toenails have corners which have been crowded by the skin. To prevent ingrown toenails, trim nails straight across with toenail clippers. Do not round off corners. The nail should be kept trimmed to protect it from pressure and irritation. After clipping, smooth nails with a file. To ease the pain, wear open-toed sandals and soak feet in warm water once or twice a day.

Blisters are caused by poor-fitting shoes and socks. If blisters occur, don’t pop them-you may cause infection. If a blister breaks on its own, carefully wash the area, apply antiseptic, cover with a sterile bandage during the day, and uncover at night to let the skin “breathe.”

Special Care for Diabetics

Diabetes can affect blood circulation. It can also lessen feeling in the feet. So diabetics are especially vulnerable to foot problems. People with diabetes should be sure to keep the feet warm, to wear non-restrictive shoes, and to check daily for redness, cuts and cracks to prevent them from developing into more a more serious problem.

If you have diabetes, see your physician about even the most simple foot problems. Avoid cutting corns or calluses and using any remedy containing salicylic acid (an ingredient listed on labels of certain corn remedies, with a warning against its use by diabetics). Trim toenails carefully to avoid breaking the skin or producing an ingrown toenail.

Even a small problem with the feet can make walking difficult and painful, so taking care of your feet pays off in a big way!

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Offers Caregiver Tips for Helping a Bedridden Person

Positioning & Transferring

If you are helping provide care for a loved one who is incapacitated due to a stroke or other condition, you may be called upon to help the person change position in bed or transfer from one place to another, such as from the bed to a chair. Making changes of positions is important, because moving and changing positions can ease some of the discomfort the person is experiencing. Changing positions every two to four hours also helps prevents pressure sores and stiffness.

When caring for someone in bed, the following can be helpful to simplify the process:

• Explain what you are doing. The more the person knows what you are doing, the more they can cooperate and let you know how they would like to be turned.

• Always pay attention to body mechanics. Protect your back by lifting with your legs, not your back. Bend or flex your knees and avoid twisting your back.

• Two people can move someone easier than one.

Tips for Adjusting Position in Bed:

• When moving the patient to the near side of the bed, begin with the head, then the shoulders, trunk, legs, and feet.

• When the person is in the new position, support the arms and legs with pillows or rolled up towels, especially when the person is in a side-lying position.

• If the person is unable to communicate, imagine yourself in that position. Check that the person is not lying on the shoulder and/or arm.

• Rearrange pillows. Pillows can be placed for support under the person’s head, between the knees, or under hands or arms.

• Keep skin clean and dry. Keep linen and clothing dry and wrinkle free.

• Reddened areas or opened areas of skin should be brought to the attention of the person’s healthcare provider.

• Apply lotion and massage the skin to assist in increasing the circulation and general comfort.

Tips for Transferring (Moving From One Place to Another)

Plan ahead what you are going to do and the easiest way to do it. When moving someone from bed to a chair:

• Place the bed in a low position. Always lock/secure the bed, the wheelchair, and/or chair to prevent movement. Place the chair close to the bed, equalizing heights as much as possible.

• Always assist patient to their strong side if they have one.

• If moving from the bed to chair, put the bed in its lowest position with the head raised to a sitting position, if possible.

• Stand in front of the person being transferred, with your feet apart. This position broadens your base support, improving your balance and control when moving.

• Help the person to a sitting position. Give the person time in a sitting position to be sure that any dizziness subsides before attempting to get them up.

• Absorb the strain with your knees and legs, not your back. Keep your back straight. Flex your hips slightly.

• Stand in front of the person and put your arms around their body, placing your hands on their ribs in back. Instruct the person to place their hands on your shoulders, not around your neck.

• Make sure the person who is being moved has both feet on the ground. Using your weight to balance, and keeping your knees slightly bent, gently rock the person into a standing position.

• To turn, continue to counterbalance with your weight and maintain a wide-based stance. Pivot on your feet, slowly turning your whole body, not twisting your trunk.

• Gently lower the person into the chair by bending your knees.

The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. If you have questions about the care of your loved one, contact your physician or other member of the care team.

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Dispels Fall Risk Myths for the Elderly

Seniors & Falls: Myth or Fact?

If you or a loved one has taken a fall – or if the possibility of falling is something that worries you – you are not alone. Older adults put falls near the top of the list of things to worry about. But there are steps you can take to reduce the risk, and the first step is to know the basics!

Myth #1: The topic of falls isn’t an important issue for me. If I fall, I just get up.

Fact: Each year, one in three seniors experiences a fall serious enough to require medical attention. Falls lead to hip fractures and other serious injuries, and are the leading cause of death due to injury.

Myth #2: Falls are just a part of growing older, and I can’t do anything about that.

Fact: Some of the changes of aging do increase the risk of falling. Most older adults will experience problems with their eyesight, sense of balance, mobility, bone structure and reflexes. Medical conditions such as stroke, diabetes and Parkinson’s disease also increase the risk. But there is much you can do to protect against falling.

Myth #3: As long as I stick close to home, I can avoid falling.

Fact: Over half of all falls take place right in the person’s home! One of the most important steps you can take to cut your fall risk is to do a regular home safety inspection. Look for hazards, such as rough floor surfaces, clutter, throw rugs, and poor lighting. Make simple home modifications, such as grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs, and non-slip paint on outdoor steps.

Myth #4: If I have experienced a fall, the best way to prevent falling again is to sit down most of the time and avoid physical activity.

Fact: This may be the biggest myth of all when it comes to protecting against falls! The truth is, inactivity results in decreased energy, muscle tone and alertness…which actually increases the risk.

Myth #5: Muscle strength and flexibility, once lost, can never be regained.

Fact: Even if you’ve been a “couch potato” your whole life, beginning an exercise program now will benefit you in many ways-not the least of which is protecting against falls. Ask your healthcare provider about a fall prevention exercise plan that’s right for you.

Myth #7: Medications can’t increase the risk of falling.

Fact: Many medications help reduce falls by treating conditions that increase a person’s risk of falling (such as arthritis, osteoporosis and low blood pressure). But side effects of some drugs can also put us at greater risk of falling. Discuss any dizziness, fatigue, confusion or weakness with your healthcare provider.

Myth #8: If I am worried about the fall risk of a parent, spouse or other older adult, I shouldn’t bring it up because it might hurt their feelings. And it’s none of my business!

Fact: The reality is, helping your loved one or friend reduce the risk of falling is a caring act that can help him or her maintain the highest degree of independence possible. Let the person know that you fully support this important goal.

The good news is, plenty of research has been done on the subject of falls, and there is much we can learn from the studies. Being informed is the first step…because when it comes to falls, knowing myths from facts can help you lower the risk.

(c)2008 IlluminAge Communication Partners

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About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Shares Hidden Tax Gift Families Don’t Know About

Unknown Gem That Gives Tax Breaks To Americans Caring for Elderly Loved Ones

April 1, 2011 – The economic downturn has made life even more of a struggle for folks caring for elderly loved ones.  They’re working longer hours, paying higher gas and medical bills and struggling to find the money and time to care for aging loved ones. However, this tax season, Uncle Sam gives you a gift  if you’re caring for an elderly loved one – a tax break many families don’t even know about.

“One fourth of the families in this country are caring for elderly loved ones and they’re not aware of a tax law that allows you to write-off some of the expense,” says Peter Ross CEO of Senior Helpers, a leading provider of in-home senior care. “Whether you’re providing that care yourself, or you’ve hired a caregiver, you should take advantage of the tax breaks that are a true gift in these troubled economic times. If you don’t qualify for the tax breaks, there are other ways to cut costs every family should know about.”

Caring for An Elderly Loved One In Tough Economic Times

­ ♦ A recent survey shows that more than 40% of caregivers are spending more than $5,000 a year caring for an elderly loved one.*

­ ♦ More than a third of surveyed caregivers have been forced to quit jobs, take early retirement, reduce hours or take a leave of absence to care for an elderly loved one.*

­ ♦ 40% of female caregivers say the economic downturn has made it harder for them to care for loved ones.**

*survey by caring.com

**survey by Volunteers of America

TAX BREAKS FOR ELDERLY CARE

­ ♦ Claim your parent as a dependent

—– Your parent’s income, excluding Social Security, must be less than the amount of the personal exemption. For 2010, the personal exemption was $3,650. For 2011, it’s $3,700.  Plus, you must provide more than 50% of a parent’s financial support.

—– If a parent lives with you, you can include a percentage of your mortgage and utilities.

—– You can claim more than one parent as a dependent if both meet the income and support tests.

­ ♦ Deduct your parent’s medical expenses

—– If you contribute to a parent’s health care expenses and pay the health care provider yourself versus giving your parent the money to pay, you may qualify to deduct costs, even if you can’t claim the parent as a dependent.

—– To claim this deduction, you must provide at least 50% of the parent’s financial support, but you don’t have to meet the income test.

—– Deduction is limited to medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.  Qualified expenses include the cost of a nursing home, in home health care, dental care, and prescribed medicine. You can include your own unreimbursed medical expenses when calculating total costs.

Source: Perspective Accounting Services

OTHER WAYS TO CUT COSTS IF CARING FOR AN ELDERLY LOVED ONE

­ ♦ Veteran’s Benefits – Veterans can earn up to $1,800 a month in VA pension money to pay for in-home care. Senior Helpers helps families find resources to get these benefits.

­ ♦ Contact Your Local Area Agency on Aging to learn about government assistance programs that provide low income seniors, eligible for Medicaid, money to pay for in-home care.

“American families need to realize there is help out there to help them shoulder the burden of caring for an elderly loved one, “says Ross. “If you can’t provide care yourself, hire a caregiver and research the ways you can pay for that care. It’s a cheaper alternative to a nursing home and your loved ones get to stay in the comfortable surroundings of their own home.”

Media Contact: Tim Daniels, (203) 564-1591, tdaniels@seniorhelpers.com

For more information about Senior Helpers, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.

Photo credit:  learningdslrvideo.com

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, Connecticut, Talks About Asthma and Seniors

Pay attention to symptoms and seek treatment

Asthma awareness is not just for kids. It is often diagnosed as a new condition in older people after beginning with a nighttime cough or difficulty breathing. In fact, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology states that “approximately six to 10% of older individuals in the United States may have asthma – a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing.” Other existing health conditions in adults who develop asthma can be more challenging to treat, and seniors can experience drug and disease interaction.

Asthma symptoms in seniors are often explained away as old age, a result of smoking, or attributed to air pollution. Seniors who suffer from illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and dementia often cannot communicate their symptoms, and may also have other impairments or disorders that can confuse or mask asthma symptoms. With proper diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan, asthma can be successfully managed in people of all age groups, including older adults. Allergens cannot be totally avoided, but their effects can be minimized by following these tips:

• Watch for ozone alerts.
• Minimize outdoor activity on days when temperatures are excessively high.
• Take medications as prescribed in the recommended dosage. Do not take more medication to ease severe symptoms without consulting your doctor.
• Use an air conditioner in both your home and car to keep air clean, cool, and dry.
• Do not stand directly behind cars that are running. Exhaust fumes could trigger an asthma attack.

Sources: http://www.aaaai.org/patients; http://www.allergiesasthmahelp.com/allergies-asthma-articles

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in-home, caregiving services for the elderly in the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport, Milford and Orange area.  We offer extensive in-home health care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Lower and Upper Coastal Fairfield County, Milford and Orange, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In-home care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/0909.