Tag: best home care Philadelphia

Creating Holiday Connections: Tips for Carepartners to Engage with Older Adults

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

The holiday season is a time for connection, joy, and reflection. For carepartners, it’s an opportunity to strengthen bonds with older adults and bring extra cheer to their lives. Here are a few meaningful ways caregivers can engage with older adults during the holidays.

caregiving during the holidays 1 Creating Holiday Connections: Tips for Carepartners to Engage with Older Adults

1. Share Holiday Traditions

Engage older adults by revisiting cherished traditions, such as baking holiday cookies, decorating a tree, or lighting candles. Ask them to share their favorite memories or recipes—this can rekindle fond moments while creating new ones.

2. Incorporate Music and Arts

Holiday music and crafts are excellent ways to uplift spirits. Singing carols, playing classic songs, or making decorations together can encourage creativity and evoke a sense of belonging.

3. Explore Storytelling

Encourage older adults to share stories about holidays past. You can turn these into storytelling sessions with younger family members or create a memory book to celebrate their experiences.

4. Engage in Acts of Kindness

Involve them in charitable activities like writing holiday cards for neighbors, donating to a food drive, or knitting scarves for those in need. These small gestures foster a sense of purpose and connection.

5. Enjoy Holiday Entertainment

Watch classic holiday movies or attend local events such as concerts or plays (virtually or in person). It’s a great way to share laughter and nostalgia.

6. Adapt Activities to Their Needs

Ensure that activities align with the older adult’s physical and cognitive abilities. Whether it’s a cozy chat over hot cocoa or a short stroll to enjoy holiday lights, tailor activities to their comfort level.

The holidays provide a special time to focus on togetherness and love. With thoughtful planning, caregivers can create memorable and heartfelt moments that make the season bright for older adults.

NursePartners places a special emphasis on connecting before providing care to older adults. Our plans of care include reference to the older adult’s work and family history, as well as hobbies, skills, and other preferences. These are essential for the carepartner to provide personalized care while assisting the older adult with the activities of daily living (bathing, eating, mobility, etc.).

Want to learn more about how we can help your loved one? Please call us at 610-323-9800.

How to Talk to Your Parents About Home Care

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
talking to mom How to Talk to Your Parents About Home Care

Discussing home care with your parents can be a delicate and emotional conversation. While it’s natural to want the best for them, the topic may bring up concerns about independence, finances, or the reality of aging. Approaching the subject thoughtfully and with empathy can help foster understanding and agreement. Here’s how to start this important conversation.

1. Choose the Right Time and Place

Timing is everything. Find a quiet, comfortable setting where everyone feels relaxed and open to talking. Avoid bringing up the subject during a stressful moment or when emotions are running high.

2. Do Your Homework

Before the conversation, research home care options, services, and costs. Be ready to explain how home care can enhance their quality of life by offering assistance with daily activities, providing companionship, and ensuring safety while allowing them to remain in their home.

3. Focus on Their Needs and Desires

Frame the discussion around your parents’ wishes rather than your own concerns. Ask open-ended questions like:

  • “What tasks are becoming harder for you lately?”
  • “How do you feel about getting some extra help at home?”
    This shows that you’re prioritizing their perspective and respecting their autonomy.

4. Address Common Misconceptions

Your parents may worry that accepting home care means losing independence or privacy. Reassure them that home care is designed to support their independence by enabling them to stay at home rather than moving to a facility.

5. Share Stories or Examples

If you know friends or family members who have benefited from home care, share their experiences. Hearing positive outcomes can help reduce hesitation and build trust in the idea.

6. Include Them in the Decision-Making

Involve your parents in choosing a home care agency or caregiver. Review options together and encourage them to ask questions. This empowers them to feel in control of the process.

7. Be Patient and Respectful

It’s normal for parents to resist the idea at first. Avoid pushing or pressuring them. Give them time to consider the information and revisit the conversation as needed.

8. Seek Professional Advice if Necessary

If the conversation becomes difficult, consider involving a trusted third party, such as a doctor, social worker, or care manager. These professionals can provide valuable insights and help address specific concerns.

9. Reassure Them of Your Support

Let your parents know that you’re in this together. Acknowledge their fears and emphasize that the goal is to enhance their quality of life, not to take control.

Conclusion

Talking to your parents about home care requires sensitivity, preparation, and patience. By approaching the conversation with empathy and a focus on their well-being, you can help them see the value of home care as a supportive and empowering choice. Ultimately, this discussion is about ensuring they have the care and support they need to thrive in their later years.

The time does not need to be “perfect” to introduce home care services. We are here to talk to you about what care could look like for your parents: 610-323-9800.

Drafting a Comprehensive Plan of Care

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
care plan writing Drafting a Comprehensive Plan of Care

Older adults require a plan of care to help them age in place. We typically assume this document outlines health limitations and daily medications. However, a really good plan should cover much more. It needs to ensure that the older adult is best supported physically, socially, and emotionally, incorporating their lived experiences into its design. This personalized document brings together healthcare providers, caregivers, and family members to ensure coordinated, consistent, and compassionate care.

What is a Comprehensive Plan of Care?

A comprehensive plan of care is a detailed, individualized guide that outlines an older adult’s medical, emotional, and daily living needs. It includes key components such as:

  • Health Goals: Long-term and short-term objectives for managing chronic conditions or improving overall health.
  • Medications: A complete list of current prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements, including dosages and potential interactions.
  • Diet and Nutrition: Personalized dietary recommendations to address nutritional deficiencies, manage chronic illnesses, or accommodate preferences.
  • Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Support for tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility, tailored to the individual’s capabilities.
  • Social Engagement: Opportunities for fostering connections to reduce isolation and promote emotional well-being.
  • Crisis Management: Emergency plans for acute medical situations, including contact information and advanced directives.

Why is a Comprehensive Care Plan Essential?

  1. Holistic Health Management
    Older adults often face multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis. A comprehensive care plan ensures that these conditions are addressed collectively rather than in isolation, minimizing complications and improving outcomes.
  2. Improved Coordination Among Care Teams
    Involving multiple healthcare providers can lead to fragmented care without a unified plan. A care plan streamlines communication among doctors, nurses, therapists, and caregivers, reducing redundancies and improving efficiency.
  3. Empowers Older Adults and Their Families
    A care plan gives older adults a sense of control over their care while keeping family members informed and involved. This collaboration fosters trust and reduces stress for all parties.
  4. Prevents Medical Errors
    With detailed documentation of medications, allergies, and treatment preferences, care plans help prevent harmful errors, such as drug interactions or unnecessary procedures.
  5. Supports Aging in Place
    For those who wish to remain in their homes, a care plan outlines resources and adaptations needed to safely and comfortably age in place.
  6. Addresses Emotional and Social Needs
    Aging is not just a physical journey; it is also an emotional and social one. A comprehensive care plan includes strategies for maintaining mental health and fostering meaningful relationships.

Crafting an Effective Care Plan

Creating a care plan involves collaboration between healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the older adult. Here are some steps to ensure its success:

  • Conduct a Thorough Assessment: Evaluate physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs.
  • Consider the Environment: Ensure that the home is safe and make adjustments if not. Consider how the older adult can best optimize their space.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable objectives that align with the older adult’s preferences and values.
  • Update Regularly: Life circumstances and health conditions evolve. Revisit and adjust the plan as needed.
  • Leverage Technology: Use tools like medication reminders, telehealth, and digital monitoring to enhance care.

Conclusion

A comprehensive care plan is not just a document—it’s a lifeline that promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life for older adults. Whether managing chronic conditions, preparing for emergencies, or ensuring meaningful daily interactions, this tailored approach empowers older adults to age with grace and confidence. By investing the time and effort into creating and maintaining a care plan, families and caregivers can provide the kind of support that truly makes a difference.

Minimizing Fall Risk for Older Adults with Impaired Mobility Living at Home

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, especially for those with impaired mobility. Fortunately, there are several effective steps families and carepartners can take to minimize these risks, allowing their loved ones to live safely and independently at home.

senior care Philadelphia, fall risk Philadelphia, dementia care Philadelphia

1. Assess the Living Space

A home environment assessment is a crucial first step in preventing falls. Walk through each room to identify and address potential hazards. NursePartners completes a complimentary free assessment before onboarding new clients. This is what we look for during these assessments:

  • Clear clutter and remove any items on the floor that may obstruct walking paths.
  • Secure loose rugs with double-sided tape or remove them altogether.
  • Arrange furniture to create open, accessible pathways that accommodate mobility aids.
  • Install adequate lighting, especially in hallways, staircases, and entrances, to improve visibility at night.
  • Accessibility, ensure most used items are within reach.

2. Install Safety Features

Investing in a few key safety features can make a significant difference:

  • Grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub provide stability.
  • Non-slip mats in bathrooms reduce the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.
  • Handrails on both sides of stairs offer balance and support.
  • Raised toilet seats and shower chairs can help with stability during transfers.

3. Encourage the Use of Mobility Aids

Using mobility aids, like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, can improve stability and reduce the chance of falls. Make sure the device is correctly adjusted and encourage your loved one to use it consistently. Regular maintenance of these aids—such as ensuring that walker wheels and cane tips are in good condition—is also essential.

4. Promote Physical Activity

Maintaining physical strength is essential to preventing falls. Encourage activities that focus on balance, flexibility, and strength, such as gentle exercises, balance training, or even physical therapy. Activities like tai chi and chair yoga can be particularly beneficial, as they help enhance stability without putting strain on the joints.

5. Review Medications and Health Conditions

Some medications or health conditions can increase fall risk by causing dizziness or impaired balance. Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to minimize side effects and adjust dosages if needed. In addition, ensure routine eye exams, as vision changes can impact depth perception and balance. If you do not have a good relationship with your provider, either establish it now or find a new one.

6. Provide Emergency Preparedness Tools

Even with precautions, falls can still happen. Prepare for emergencies by providing easy-to-access tools, like:

  • Medical alert systems or wearable alarms, so they can call for help if needed.
  • Cell phones or other devices within reach, so they can quickly reach family members or emergency services.

Implementing these fall-prevention strategies can go a long way in supporting a safer and more comfortable home environment for older adults with impaired mobility. Regular reassessment and adjustments based on their changing needs are essential to maintaining an environment that fosters independence while minimizing risks.

NursePartners manages the care for older adults in the comfort in their homes. This includes regular visits to monitor the level of care being provided and reassessments of the home environment. Want to learn more? Call us today at 610-323-9800.

How Dementia Can Cause Erratic Behavior and Impact Decision-Making

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Dementia often brings about changes in the brain that affect not only memory but also a person’s ability to think clearly, make sound decisions, and control their behavior. One of the lesser-known impacts of dementia, especially in the early stages, is the increased likelihood of erratic behavior. This can manifest as unpredictable choices or impulsive actions that would be unusual for the person prior to the onset of dementia.

shutterstock 2450986075 How Dementia Can Cause Erratic Behavior and Impact Decision-Making

Understanding Erratic Behavior in Dementia

Erratic behavior in dementia stems from changes in the brain’s ability to regulate emotions and process information. Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia, affects the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for judgment, planning, and impulse control. As dementia progresses, individuals may make decisions that are out of character, sometimes ignoring risks or consequences that they previously would have carefully considered.

Impact on Decision-Making

  1. Impaired Judgment and Risk Evaluation
    Individuals with dementia may find it difficult to assess risks or foresee the outcomes of their actions. This could lead them to make unsafe choices, such as leaving doors unlocked or mishandling medications.
  2. Difficulty Following Logical Steps
    Everyday decisions, like managing finances or remembering appointments, often require a step-by-step process that dementia disrupts. A person may begin the process but forget how to finish it. As a result, someone with dementia may make financial mistakes, such as overpaying bills or falling victim to scams.
  3. Emotional Reactivity and Impulsivity
    Dementia can lead to a heightened emotional response, making individuals more susceptible to making decisions based on fleeting emotions rather than rational thought. For instance, they might become easily frustrated or anxious and make impulsive choices without considering alternatives.

Helping Loved Ones Make Decisions

Supporting a loved one with dementia through decision-making involves creating a safe environment and encouraging simplified choices. Establishing routines, using reminders, and enlisting the help of professionals can also reduce the impact of dementia on important decisions. As dementia progresses, guardianship or power of attorney may be necessary to ensure that important decisions are made in their best interest.

Dementia’s impact on decision-making is a serious concern, especially as it leads to erratic behavior. By understanding these changes, caregivers and family members can take proactive steps to safeguard the well-being and safety of their loved ones. If you do not already have a care team in place, consider bringing in professional staff to help support your loved one and family. NursePartners’ team of certified nursing assistants are trained in dementia care and are ready to help: 610-323-9800.

Bathing a Senior living with Dementia: A Gentle Approach

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
senior bathing with candles Bathing a Senior living with Dementia: A Gentle Approach

Bathing a senior with dementia can be a delicate and challenging task. Dementia often affects memory, comprehension, and emotional responses, so it’s important to approach bath time with sensitivity, patience, and respect. Creating a positive experience can improve not only hygiene but also the person’s sense of dignity and well-being. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Prepare the Environment Ensure the bathroom is warm, well-lit, and safe. Have all the necessary supplies ready—towels, soap, and clean clothes—to avoid leaving the senior unattended. Non-slip mats, grab bars, and a shower chair can make the process more secure and comfortable for both the caregiver and the senior. Go the extra mile by bringing warm towels, adjusting the room lightening and scents, and ensuring that everything is set up for enjoyable experience.

2. Communicate Calmly and Reassure Explain each step gently, even if the person may not fully understand. A soothing tone and familiar words can reduce anxiety. For example, say “Let’s wash your hands” instead of “It’s time to bathe,” as specific instructions may feel less overwhelming.

3. Maintain Privacy and Dignity Many seniors with dementia may feel vulnerable during bath time. Keep them covered with towels or a bathrobe as much as possible to maintain privacy. Letting them participate—like washing their own face or arms—can promote independence and preserve dignity.

4. Be Flexible and Attentive Adapt to the senior’s preferences and moods. If they seem resistant or fearful, it may help to switch to a sponge bath or try again later. Being attentive to their reactions ensures a gentler, more respectful experience.

5. Use Touch to Reassure A comforting touch can offer reassurance. Holding their hand or gently guiding them can reduce feelings of confusion or agitation. Stay mindful of non-verbal cues, as body language often communicates more than words.

6. Focus on Comfort, Not Perfection The goal is to keep the person clean and comfortable. If a full bath is too stressful, consider alternatives like a sponge bath or focusing on key areas—hands, face, underarms, and the groin.

Caring for a senior with dementia requires adaptability and empathy. By creating a calm and supportive environment, you can help ensure that bath time is a positive experience that maintains their dignity and comfort.

Positive Approach to Care for Deescalating Conflicts

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
memory loss, dementia care, Philadelphia dementia care, Montgomery County dementia care, Rosemont dementia care

Teepa Snow and the Positive Approach to Care (“PAC”) team, emphasize several key strategies for deescalating tension between caregivers (“carepartners”) and individuals living with dementia. Her approach is rooted in the Positive Approach to Care, which focuses on understanding the person with dementia, adjusting care strategies, and promoting positive communication. Here are some of their recommendations:

1. Stay Calm and Use a Positive, Supportive Tone

  • Approach with empathy: The PAC stress the importance of remaining calm and non-confrontational. The care partner should use a gentle, positive tone of voice, avoiding frustration or anger, as people with dementia often react strongly to emotional cues.
  • Body language: Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body posture, and gestures are critical. Teepa advises maintaining a relaxed posture, a soft gaze, and open palms to convey safety and support.

2. Step Back and Observe

  • Recognize triggers: The PAC suggest that care partners should try to identify what might be causing the tension. Is the person with dementia feeling anxious, frustrated, or confused? Understanding the root cause can help the carepartner intervene more effectively.
  • Pause before reacting: Instead of reacting immediately, encourage caregivers to take a step back and assess the situation. This moment of reflection can allow both the carepartner and the person with dementia to cool down.

3. Use Positive Physical Approach (“PPA”)

  • Approach from the front: The PAC emphasize approaching the person living with dementia from the front, so they can see the care partner coming. Sudden movements or approaching from behind can be startling and escalate tension.
  • Create a connection: Establish eye contact, offer a smile, and touch gently if appropriate (for example, on the forearm or hand) to create a sense of trust and safety.

4. Modify Communication

  • Simplify language: The PAC advise carepartners to use short, simple sentences with clear instructions. This helps the person with dementia process the information more easily.
  • Validate emotions: Acknowledging the feelings of the person with dementia, even if their logic seems off, is crucial. For example, saying something like, “I see you’re upset. Let’s see how we can make this better” can help defuse a situation.
  • Avoid arguing or correcting: Instead of trying to convince the person of reality or correct them, go along with their perspective in a non-confrontational way. This prevents unnecessary conflict.

5. Redirection and Distraction

  • Shift the focus: Gently redirect the person’s attention to something else if they are fixated on something that is causing distress. This could be an activity, a change of environment, or engaging them in a simple task.
  • Offer a choice: Giving the person two simple options (e.g., “Would you like to sit here or over there?”) can help them feel a sense of control and diffuse tension.

6. Adapt Environment and Expectations

  • Minimize overstimulation: The environment can play a significant role in how a person with dementia responds. Reducing noise, simplifying the space, or turning off a TV can reduce confusion and agitation.
  • Adjust expectations: Encourage carepartners to meet the person where they are, adjusting tasks to the person’s current abilities and avoiding frustration with unrealistic expectations.

7. Use a “Hand-under-Hand” Technique

  • The PAC developed a method called the Hand-under-Hand technique, which allows the carepartner to guide the person with dementia through tasks, offering support and connection without being overpowering. This technique helps with both communication and physical interaction, providing a sense of safety and reassurance.

The PAC methods focus on fostering a compassionate, respectful relationship, where the carepartner seeks to understand the perspective and needs of the person living with dementia, thus preventing and deescalating tension effectively.

When is it time for home care?

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
blood pressure 2 When is it time for home care?

A Professional, Non-Medical Home Care Company Can Help

As people age or face chronic health conditions, they need assistance with daily tasks. This can be done while they age at home, as independently as possible. Non-medical home care companies provide support for everyday activities like bathing, meal preparation, social engagement, and housekeeping.

What is Non-Medical Home Care?

Non-medical home care helps with activities like personal hygiene, cooking, light housekeeping, mobility assistance, and companionship. Caregivers focus on assisting with daily living while allowing individuals to stay in their own homes, wherever home may be.

When to Consider Non-Medical Home Care

Here are some signs it might be time to employ a non-medical home care service:

  • Difficulty with Daily Activities: When tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating become difficult, non-medical caregivers can help.
  • Chronic and Progressive Conditions: Those with conditions like arthritis, COPD, or dementia may need help keeping a routine.
  • Post-Surgery Recovery: After surgery, people might need support with daily tasks while they regain strength.
  • Caregiver Burnout: If family members are overwhelmed by caregiving duties, non-medical services offer respite.
  • Social Isolation: Non-medical caregivers provide companionship for individuals who may feel lonely.
  • Household Management Issues: Difficulty with cleaning or cooking is another reason to seek assistance.

Benefits of Non-Medical Home Care

  • Personalized Care: Services are tailored to individual needs.
  • Cost-Effective: Home care is often more affordable than assisted living.
  • Independence: Caregivers help people remain in their homes.
  • Support for Families: Caregivers ease the burden on family members.

Choosing a Provider

When selecting a non-medical home care company, consider their reputation, the qualifications of caregivers, the flexibility of services, and transparent pricing.

In summary, non-medical home care is an excellent option for those who need help with daily activities but want to stay independent. Recognizing the right time to seek this support ensures a safer, higher quality of life.

Want to learn more? Call us today at 610-323-9800.

How to Help Your Elderly Parents Move House

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

It’s more likely that our parents will need to relocate to a new house as they age. Moving your parents into a new house may be challenging and stressful, whether due to their deteriorating health, the death of a spouse, or simply because their existing home is no longer adequate for their requirements. This blog article will review the importance of relocating your elderly parents, getting them ready for the change, and making the transfer go as smoothly as possible. After reading this article, we hope you understand what must be done to ensure your elderly parents receive the proper care.

Elderly Parent Moving How to Help Your Elderly Parents Move House

Communicate openly

Seniors may have an emotional attachment to the house they’re leaving, so it’s normal for them to feel sad and uncertain about the transition. It might be challenging to discuss the move with your elderly parent, but doing so can help the transition go more smoothly. Give them time to adjust to the change and talk to them about where they will live and why they are going. Giving your loved one as much control as possible while they plan and carry out the relocation can help them feel less stressed when asked to leave their long-time residence.

Make a plan and downsize

There is no such thing as early planning when you need to help your elderly parents move house. Downsizing their stuff with them before you start packing is an excellent place to start, especially if they are relocating to a place considerably smaller than their present residence. You may lessen the tension and any sense of being kept hostage by their possessions by selling, recycling, giving unwanted goods as gifts to relatives, or donating them. That is a sensitive procedure you should go through with your parents, at their own pace. You may always hire a professional to help if you’re having trouble finding the time or the emotional stamina for the task. The expert will sit with them and assist them with decluttering and downsizing, listen to their tales, and ensure that each thing goes to its proper home.

Rent a storage unit for what’s left

Your loved one might not be quite ready to part with particular objects. Maybe they want to entrust them to future generations. Whatever the reasons, it’s possible that you’ll have to rent a storage unit to keep the rest of their possessions. Storage facilities are a safe, practical, and accessible solution for anyone needing to store their belongings temporarily during relocation. Furthermore, suppose you need to relocate somewhere in Philadelphia. In that case, local movers can help you get your items safely to any location, whether it is your parent’s new home or a storage unit. Professional movers will offer expert help with any task, making your relocation a breeze.

Involve the rest of the family

It’s not necessary to help your elderly parents move house alone. Even if you may take the initiative, don’t be reluctant to enlist family members to share the workload. One person may, for instance, be in charge of getting moving supplies and finding a storage facility, while another compiles an inventory of every item in the house by room. This procedure will simplify relocation and assist in reuniting the family for a significant life event.

Start packing

Nobody likes packing the night before a move, including your elderly parents. You want to prevent unnecessary tension, which might result from unpreparedness. As a result, start packing as soon as you have assisted them in decluttering and know what will be moving. Work your way through the house packing the items that aren’t used frequently first before moving on to the items required daily. You may even hire a professional to pack and move your parent’s possessions for them, relieving the tension even more. Doing this assignment early can save you worry in the long run and make the relocation a much simpler process.

Clean the old house

You still have much work to do after you finish organizing and packing. Whether you sell the old residence, rent it, or give it to another relative, you must do the same tasks. Therefore, consider cleaning the house and making necessary repairs before they become irremediable. Taking care of maintenance concerns immediately rather than later when the property is up for sale is preferable.

Prepare the new house

After you’ve located the ideal new residence for your elderly parents, it’s essential to check that it is senior-friendly. That entails making sure there are no stairs or steps that can present fall risks, the restroom is simple to use, and the kitchen is spacious enough to walk around without being restricted. Also, pay attention to how you organize the new home. For example, if the arrangement of the pictures on the living room wall was the same for as long as you can remember, carry it over to the new house. If you need to buy new furniture, arrange things in the same order and include decorations like throw blankets and pillows. Additionally, put pots and pans where you know your loved one can find and reach them.

Transfer paperwork

If your parent is relocating far away, they might need to replace their dentist, doctor, or any other services they have. That may be a specific aspect of moving, but if your family has been seeing the same physician for a long time, the change in routine might be stressful. To prevent papers from sitting at their previous location, make the address changes as soon as possible. Additionally, have their mail forwarded to the new address.

Make the travel arrangements

Transportation may be a little more complicated, depending on how far you relocate your elderly parents. A short vehicle trip is not too challenging if you relocate them down the street. But, if they are traveling a long distance, the physical journey may become problematic. Will your elderly parent feel comfortable driving a long distance in a car? Is it preferable to transport them by train or plane? Find that out and plan a schedule that works for both of you. However, no matter how you plan to transfer them, wait until all their possessions are moved and unpacked.

Final thoughts

As you can see, it’s not that difficult to help your elderly parents move house. All you need is a good organization and a well-thought plan. Your loved one should experience a smoother transition if you carefully plan the relocation and the new house is ready to welcome them.

Establish a Daily Routine for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Daily Routine

For most of us, routines are a key part of our day-to-day lives. Routines are powerful tools that keep us energized, productive, and most importantly –  grounded during a stressful time.

Overall, routines are a key component of staying healthy. For people with dementia who have trouble receiving and storing new sensory information, routine and repetition are critical to function.

A model routine includes set times for waking up and going to sleep, regular hygiene practices, consistent eating patterns and other key activities. The effect the coronavirus pandemic has had on daily life has unfortunately disrupted much of our normal routine living. Disrupting the routines of those with dementia creates a lot of stress for someone who cannot track information. The pandemic is already stressful enough to most of us, yet for those suffering with dementia this abundance of stress can lead to an increase in confusion and memory issues. The good news is that this is most often temporary and can stabilize once people get back to a routine.

Ways to help

Here are some recommendations for the best ways to help a loved one with dementia during this time:

  • Stick to a routine as much as possible.

    In all the chaos and confusion of the pandemic, creating structure and routine in your loved one’s life can create an environment that is comforting with clear expectations. One way to implement a clear routine is to have a white board, or a calendar on the wall that includes a plan for the day. You can alter these to reflect new activities to be done throughout the day and week.

  • Connect Online.

    Online communication is a valuable tool in times when we may not be able to visit our loved ones face-to-face. From Skype, to Facetime, to Facebook Video calls, there is a great deal of technology that can help you keep in touch with your loved one and fight social isolation.

  • Beware of negative media.

    While online communication can be a good and useful tool for connecting, you must also ensure that your loved ones are not being bombarded by fear and hysteria in the free time they spend online. Exposing your loved one with dementia to too much negative information can have serious effects on their emotional state. While they might not remember the details of newscasts, they hold on to the emotional information. As a result, they may feel increased fear, anxiety and stress, but not understand why.

  • Manage stress

Engage your loved one with activities, hobbies or listening to music.

  • Focus on the Past

Since taking in new information is difficult, focus on reminiscing – talk about past events, trips, other activities that they have done.

Signs to watch

In times of stress, someone with dementia may experience increased confusion or agitation, or may exhibit behavioral changes and act out of character. This is most often only temporary.

However, if you notice some of the following behaviors developing, you should contact your care provider:

  • If your loved one is acting out of character or begins putting themself in danger by wandering off or becoming physically aggressive.
  • If there are new areas of confusion or new types of behaviors that persist over the course of several days.

We understand these are difficult times, and for our loved ones experiencing memory disorders, it can be even more trying. Remember, we are all in this together. .

NursePartners creates permanent care teams to introduce stability and routine into the lives of older adults.  All teams are managed by a registered nurse and certified dementia practitioner.  Care is provided right at home, or wherever home may be.  Want to learn more about how we can help you?  Call us, and ask for Angie, Carole, or Jessica:

610-323-9800