Finding A Compatible Caregiver

By AmeriCare, October 14, 2011

The relationship between client and caregiver is unlike any other. It is more intimate than that of patient and nurse, because it is more personal. A caregiver works within a client’s home, helping him or her when they are at their weakest, their most vulnerable. Here, there is no room for judgment, only compassion, respect, and a willingness to do whatever is required to help a client feel comfortable and independent will do. To make them feel at home.

Compatibility between a client and his or her caregiver is critical. And, like any relationship, it is in many ways instinctual. The qualities that engender trust, and establish report, vary between individuals. What one considers an appropriate level of attention and care, another may consider overbearing and invasive. Someone may want their caregiver to be predicable and serious, while someone else may want them to be spontaneous and silly, to shine joy and laughter on an otherwise challenging situation.

Matching a client with the perfect caregiver may be the most important part of a Home Care provider’s job. So, it is essential that your provider take great measures to ensure a compatible match.

Here are some things to consider when selecting a caregiver:

Credentials: First and foremost, a caregiver must be qualified. They must have the basic skills and a trusted background. Make sure your provider conducts background checks and only employs certified professionals.

Flexibility: A caregiver should cater to the client’s schedule and have the flexibility to come on short notice, and stay late, if needed. Make sure your provider has contingency plans for occasions when scheduling conflicts arise. A provider should always be able to accommodate a client in need, regardless of the circumstances.

Selection: You should be provided with options and the opportunity to interview a prospective caregivers, in person, before making a final decision.

Right Of Refusal: A chemistry check does not always accurately predict an actual working relationship. You should be able to ask for a different caregiver at any time, for any reason, and have your request honored promptly.

At AmeriCare, we go the extra mile to make sure each client is matched with the perfect caregiver for his or her particular needs and personality type. We pride ourselves on having one of the most stringent screening processes, and widest selection of qualified and compassionate caregivers, in the industry. The results can be seen in our long lasting client relationships and the special bonds that our caregivers form with their clients.

Please Contact Us if you are interested in learning more about our Home Care services. We’ll be delighted to present you with a selection of qualified caregivers in order to determine the most compatible match.

Tags: Caregiver Compatibility, Caregivers, Home Care Services

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A Caregiver’s Guide To Family Vacations

By AmeriCare, July 18, 2011

I need a vacation from my vacation.

Have you ever experienced this? A vacation so stressful that returning home seemed more relaxing?

It is this very condition that often discourages caregivers from planning vacations with elderly parents, or family members with special needs; which is a shame, as it is often these caregivers who need a vacation the most. And it is often these families that could most benefit from the special bonding that only occurs when enjoying new experiences together. Otherwise, resentments inevitably creep in, and life becomes too much of a chore.

Don’t let this happen to you. Yes, life may be more complicated now. Yes, you may have to redefine your definition of a family vacation just a bit. But, time away from your regular life responsibilities is essential to your mental health and overall wellbeing.

So, here are some tips to help you get everyone packed up and ready to go on the next great family vacation. Cue up the essential vacation song: Holiday Road.

The key to a successful vacation, when traveling with people with special needs, lies in proper planning.

First, check with the family physician to make sure your elderly parent or disabled relative is medically cleared to travel. Discuss possible vacation scenarios and review safety precautions, such as:

• Bringing extra medication in case a bag gets misplaced
• Knowing which hospital to visit should emergency care be required

When selecting destinations, consider which mode of transportation will be most conducive to all involved. Keep in mind that:

• Most airlines offer priority boarding for special needs passengers, as well as onboard wheelchair service and storage for mobility devices
• Amtrak provides wheelchair accessible compartments, and even offers discounts to disabled passengers
• If driving, a large rental car may be more spacious and comfortable than driving a more compact car that you own

Regardless of the type of transportation that you select, be sure to allocate more time for rest stops.

Allow for longer connection times between flights, and arrange for wheelchair or cart transportation between terminals and gates.

When driving, build in time for frequent stops along your route. Look for fun landmarks to visit along the way that will contribute to the road trip, but don’t get frustrated if things don’t go exactly as planned. Roll with it.

Now, on to the main event: the actual vacation destination. This is still a matter of personal taste and a function of what your family wants to do, but be realistic, and stay focused on what’s most important: that everyone enjoys this time away together.

Don’t feel as though you need to spend every waking minute together, however. If you want to go for a half-day hike, or lounge by the pool in the afternoon sun, go for it, just make sure everyone else is cared for first.

Consider destinations that are versatile and offer a little something for the whole family. Check for on-site activities and sanctioned excursions that appeal to everyone.

Be sure to work with your hotel or resort to reserve rooms that accommodate your special needs, such as adjoining rooms that are on the first floor and are handicap accessible.

Above all else: be flexible, keep a positive attitude, and don’t worry so much about achieving the perfect vacation. Enjoy the precious moments you have with your loved ones and make it your mission to focus on what truly matters, that you all are together and still making the most out of life, regardless of your present situation.

There will also be occasions when you just need to treat yourself to some time away. That’s okay. It’s healthy. You should do it and not feel guilty for one minute. That’s what home care companies like AmeriCare are here for: to care for your loved ones in the comfort of their own home while you’re away.

In short-term care situations, we always encourage introductory meetings to make sure that our caregiver and the client are compatible. Then, we take care of the rest, so that you can enjoy a well-deserved break and come back recharged and ready to give your all with a renewed outlook.

Feel free to contact us if you are interested in discussing short-term, or long-term care options for a loved one. You may find that it’s just the vacation that you’ve been looking for.

Tags: elderly parents, home care, Special Needs, Travel

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Caregiver Chronicles: A Universal Lesson in Compassion

By AmeriCare, March 1, 2011

There are all types of stories.

Stories that are told to entertain. Stories told to inspire.

There are stories about superheroes with superpowers who swoop in and save the day, and stories about real people living real lives out in the real world. Waking up to jarring alarm clocks, facing the same dreary dramas that we all face, dealing with them like we all do: sometimes well, sometimes not as well as we’d like.

Then, there are stories about people who are a blend of both. Regular people who act in extraordinary ways. And when we encounter such people, when we hear their stories, they often have the power to bring out the greatness in us all.

This is the story of Bianca Mashorokoto, an AmeriCare caregiver, and a few of the lessons she has learned caring for a lovely ninety-two-year-young lady named Miss Brown.

Bianca moved to America from Zimbabwe in June of 2009, just three days after marrying her husband and father to her three year old fraternal twins. She lives with her mother and five siblings while she works to support her family back in Zimbabwe, who she plans to return to one day soon.

Bianca has always been a caregiver. “I’ve always taken care of people,” she says. “My father, my cousins, my aunt, my grandmother, my brothers and sisters before they moved to America. I love taking care of people.” Perhaps this altruistic attitude is a result of guidance from her grandmother, “My grandmother always told me, ‘Let your heart beat for others. Think of other people before you think of yourself and you’ll always be happy.’”

So, it’s no surprise that after graduating from Durham Technical Community College, Bianca sought out ways in which she could help others, responding to an ad from AmeriCare calling for caregivers. This is when she was paired with her current client, Miss Brown, and her graduate work began.

Before coming to America, Bianca admits that she thought the good life was a birthright for most Americans “When people talk about America, they say that it’s easy to live a good life,” Bianca says, “but I’ve learned that you have to work for what you get. You have to get up and work to support your family.”

Bianca has learned this lesson well. She wakes up every morning at the crack of dawn to catch the first of two buses that get her to Miss Brown’s by 8am, where she works seven days a week, twelve to thirteen hours every day. At the end of each day, she takes two buses back home, arriving around 9:30pm, helps out around the house, then heads off to bed in order to get ready to do it all over again.

Sounds like a lot of work. Not to Bianca. She enjoys keeping busy, and finds deep purpose in a life dedicated to serving others. “I’m here to help Miss Brown, but it doesn’t feel like that,” she says. “We’re really here to help each other, so I feel like we’re just friends.”

Bianca sees how strong-willed and rebellious the American youth can be. At twenty-five, she feels blessed to be exposed to the wisdom that our elders can impart, expressing gratitude for the lessons she has learned while caring for her client. “Miss Brown shares her wisdom and advice with me,” says Bianca. “She teaches me about marriage, how to never go to bed angry. She teaches me about love and commitment when raising children. I am learning a lot from her about patience, about how patience pays, about how goodness pays. She teaches me a lot. When I come to work, I don’t feel like I’m working. I feel like I’m at home.”

Bianca has a few words of wisdom to impart herself, especially to other people who, voluntarily or not, assume the challenging role of caregiver. “The advice I would give is to smile,” she says. “People say that when they’re upset, they look forward to my smile. And when you give a smile, you usually get one in return.”

“If I’m upset inside,” she goes on to say, “I pray about it, and in the morning I just get up and say, ‘This is the day the Lord has made. I’m beautiful. I love myself. I’m here today to do something good. And if I do something good, God will grant me another day.’”

Keeping true to her grandmother’s sage advice, Bianca finds happiness through putting others first, “Let your heart beat for others and you will always be blessed. I make sure that Miss Brown is happy no matter what. I always put her first.”

According to Miss Brown’s family, she was reluctant to get out of bed before Bianca arrived. Now, she engages in two to three activities a day. She is more energetic and full of life. She actually EATS!

“I believe that when you love, love wholeheartedly. And that when you trust, trust wholeheartedly. Try to be good, and everything will be fine.” With an outlook like this, it’s no wonder that Bianca has had a positive influence on Miss Brown’s well being.

Bianca is still saving money, anticipating her return to Zimbabwe, but it is more than financial support that she’ll bring home to her family. “I’ve learned so much about showing love to others. I can’t wait to go home and use what I’ve learned here, and hope to love even more.”

Bianca Mashorokoto works for the Chapel Hill, NC chapter of AmeriCare, operated by Eleanor Armstrong. Give her a call if you’re an area resident with Home Care questions or needs. She’ll be happy to help connect you with the perfect caregiver for your specific situation. Just like Bianca and Miss Brown.

Tags: Caregiver Chronicles

Posted in: AmeriCare, Caregiving, home care | No Comments »

Home Care “State of the Industry” Address

By , February 2, 2011

As the population ages, with more and more people joining the sandwich generation, we find ourselves entering a new era. A difficult one, perhaps, for some. An age where responsibility reigns, and we find ourselves caught in a tug-of-war for time and attention. A precarious balancing beam of selflessness without losing one’s sense of self. Tricky times, these.

AmeriCare was created to help alleviate these stressful situations, so that clients can receive the care they need from the comfort of their own homes, and family members can revert back to their more natural role of Mother, Father, Son, or Daughter; not Nurse.

This industry is constantly evolving, and we, at AmeriCare, felt like it was time to take a page from Washington and offer our own “State Of The Union” address. To talk about where we are and where we see the industry heading. Surely we cannot cover every pertinent issue in a single article, so our intention is to start a dialogue that will help guide the direction that Home Care takes moving forward, making it more relevant and useful to those who rely on our services. We hope you’ll become part of the conversation.

2010: A Year in Review

Following are just a few of the key observations and insights taken from the previous year:

1. Home Care is on the Rise. Home Care is one of the fastest growing industries in the country despite the worst economy in recent history. That is not to say that clients are spending indiscriminately. Everyone is watching their dollars, so it is up to the Home Care providers to earn clients’ business by delivering service that exceeds expectations.  

AmeriCare has been fortunate to enjoy steady growth during these difficult years, due, in large part, to our emphasis on personalized service. This includes:

• Assessing each individual’s care needs independently and working to find solutions that accommodate every situation.
• Providing a selection of caregivers that best fit a client’s needs, and allowing the client to interview and select the caregiver of his or her choosing.
• Identifying resources and financial aid to help families struggling to afford Home Care.

As the industry continues to grow, it will be sure to attract people looking to take advantage of the upward trend; therefore, clients should be careful when selecting a Home Care provider. Don’t hesitate to ask for:

• Copies of the provider’s business license.
• The extent of its insurance coverage.
• Policies regarding recruiting and background checks.

Exercise caution when considering providers. Make sure you feel that they have your best interests at heart and are equipped to handle your most complicated care needs.

2. Technology is Playing a Part. There is no substitute for compassionate understanding and a genuine smile, but innovations in Home Care technologies are helping to enhance human care and contributing to the comfort and safety of our clients. At AmeriCare, we stay abreast of the most current technologies, such as Life Alert systems, digital medication reminders, and home monitoring services so that we can help our clients make informed decisions for their specific care needs.

3. Content is King. The Internet, with its myriad of portals and social channels, is providing a way for Home Care providers to communicate with current and prospective clients like never before. We are no longer simply service providers; we are content providers as well, offering everything from tips on how to organize a home for someone with Alzheimer’s to sharing inspirational stories to lift a caregiver’s spirits during difficult times.

At AmeriCare, we use our website to deliver useful information. We also foster a community of fans on Facebook and followers on Twitter: username @americare. We hope these outlets work to bring people with similar experiences together and offer tips and inspiration that will help make their lives a bit easier. We’re all in this together and we welcome you to join our virtual family.

2011: A Look Ahead

Many of the observations mentioned above will continue to influence the industry in the coming year, but following are a few specific issues that we see being particularly pertinent in 2011:

1. Avoiding Commoditization. As we’ve already mentioned, the dramatic growth experienced by the Home Care industry will lead to an increase in service providers and a greater degree of commoditization within the industry. This increase in competition will benefit discerning clients seeking higher levels of service and elevate the category-leading companies driven to evolve their service offerings to establish a clear point of difference.

Some of the steps AmeriCare is taking to stay ahead, include:

• An emphasis on personalized service.
• Better caregiver training.
• Increased specialization of care giving skills to cater to specific client needs (dementia vs. muscular dystrophy, etc.).
• Allowing clients to interview and choose their own caregiver.
• No minimum hour requirements.
• On-call caregivers for immediate responsiveness.

As new, lesser-experienced companies enter the industry, it is imperative for established providers to continue evolving and avoid becoming commoditized.

2. Continued Advancements in Technology. As mentioned in the year in review, technology will continue to play an important role in the coming years. While Home Care companies aren’t prepared to become sales reps for product manufacturers, we expect that providers may begin to advocate medical innovations that can improve a client’s comfort and safety. Some providers may decide to include these products as part of their care package.

3. Government Aid. Healthcare reform has been a touchy topic, and will continue to be so in the coming year. Currently, most of the financial aid options for Home Care clients are subject to state regulations. Non-medical care is a growing need for many Americans, and should receive more attention in the coming years. At AmeriCare, we strive to stay current on all financial aid options and to help eligible clients obtain all the aid available to them. Look for non-medical aid to become a bigger issue in the coming years.

Clearly, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The beginning of a conversation. We want to hear your thoughts regarding the state of the industry and where it’s headed. Please post comments here and start new conversation threads in the social-sphere. Together, let’s make the future of Home Care as bright as it can be.

Special thanks for this article goes to Doug Lueder, servicing the Metro Atlanta area. Give him a call if you’re an area resident with Home Care questions or needs.

Tags: Americare home care, Home Care Industry

Posted in: Americare home care, Home Care Industry | No Comments »

Siblings Caring For Elderly Parents

By AmeriCare, December 13, 2010

Families are wondrous entities, aren’t they? No two are alike, yet all share the same essential joys and frustrations. Many of  our most life altering moments will occur within the framework of the family unit. Meeting ones soulmate. Naming a child. The moment we realize and truly appreciate the sacrifices our parents have made for us. The moment we realize it’s our turn to return the favor. And when this time comes, it can test a family’s fortitude, forging fault lines in the form of anger and resentment, threatening to create chasms among caretakers.

Or, it can be a loving and caring experience; one where the family pulls together to collectively provide comfort for a parent during the twilight of their life.

Option two sounds better, doesn’t it? So, how do families maintain their integrity while caring for parents who are no longer self-sufficient? How do siblings decide how to share the responsibilities fairly? How does one resist resentment when the responsibilities aren’t evenly distributed? Well, as each family unit is unlike any other, there is not one universal solution. There are, however, some general guidelines that can help maintain harmony through these challenging times.

The key is to develop the following critical skills: communication, empathy, and, above all else, patience. Here are some tangible tips that will help you apply these essential virtues.

Communication

Clear and open communication is imperative when assigning caretaking responsibilities. In many cases, the older child, or the one living closest to the parent, is often chosen as the primary caretaker. This method can be unfair, however, and cause sibling rivalry and resentment.

Hold a family meeting once its been determined that a parent needs ongoing assistance. Speak with a doctor to get a clear assessment of his or her abilities and limitations, then create a detailed list of the needs that will have to be cared for on a weekly basis. Create a budget as well, if some care needs exceed the parents’ financial means. Then, assign roles. If someone’s job allows for more flexibility than another’s, perhaps they assume more of the hands on responsibilities, such as companionship and cooking, while someone with a more rigid work schedule can provide more of the financial support, like arranging for a lawn service or a house cleaning crew.

If possible, don’t allow yourself to be forced into a role. Accept the role that you feel best equipped to handle and embrace it.

If you feel as though you’ve been stuck with the caretaking responsibilities, and that other members of the family are not contributing their share, voice your concerns. Keep a journal of the day-to-day and week-to-week duties and share it with the other family members on an ongoing basis. This is not to rub their noses in their neglected duties, it is intended to keep them informed and show them ways in which they can pitch in.

Also, don’t feel as though caring for your parents is solely the family’s responsibility. Reach out to friends, members of the community, and spiritual centers. Let people know how they can help. You may be surprised by how willing people are to volunteer their time.

Empathy

Imagine the kind of world we’d live in if everyone practiced more empathy. When times are tough, stop for a moment and put yourself in your parents’ shoes. Imagine that this may be you one day. How would you want to be treated, particularly by your children who you sacrificed so much for? Developing an empathetic attitude will help you act compassionately, and keep a healthy perspective, even when the demands feel like they’re beyond your current capacity.

If you are a family member who is unable to provide much of the hands on support, resist offering advise, and especially avoid criticism towards the primary caregiver. Instead, provide as much encouragement and emotional support as you can. If you feel like things could or should be handled differently, offer to help out in that area, don’t just give advice from afar.

Patience

This may sound paradoxical, but you should first apply patience towards yourself, not your parents. You’ve never done this before. You’re not always going to know what to do. You’re going to get frustrated. You’re going to feel overwhelmed. You’re going to wish your life would return to “normal.” These are all natural feelings. Don’t feel guilty about having them. Don’t feel selfish. Be patient with yourself, and understand that you’re not superhuman; there’s only so much you can do. Just do your best.

Be patient with other family members. This is new to them as well. They may be struggling with different emotions than you. They may need encouragement to get involved. They may need support; counseling. Be patient with resistant siblings, or other family members, as you work to integrate them into the program.

Finally, practice patience building techniques, you’ll need them. Breathing exercises, meditation, calisthenics; you may not feel like you have time for such activities, but they will save your sanity in the long run. So, make time.

Caregiving is one of the most challenging roles anyone can assume. And it’s not for everyone. Often family dynamics, personal relationships, individual personalities or present situations do not allow for caregiving to occur within the family. That’s what AmeriCare for. The last thing you should do is allow for a caregiving role to put a strain on a loving family relationship or begin to erode fond memories.

Give us a call if you are interested in learning more about our caregiving services.

We know what you’re going through and are always eager to help.

Tags: Americare home care, elderly parents, family caregiving

Posted in: Americare home care, aging loved ones, home care | No Comments »

Making Thanksgiving Special for Seniors

By AmeriCare, November 16, 2010

It’s unfortunate how special occasions, such as the Thanksgiving holiday, can become sources of sadness for some senior citizens. A time that once brought such joy and family merriment now reminds them of mortality and fading memories. And it’s difficult, with all of the stress and work related to hosting a holiday gathering, to also cater to aging parents, making sure they feel involved and appreciated.

Well, it doesn’t have to be. These occasions are far too few, and precious, for anyone to feel left out. We should make the most of these times by creating a place where warm, smiling faces abound. Where we refuel our tanks with love and laughter. Especially when you consider that the seniors of the group are the ones that created these traditions that we now follow and enjoy. Their legacy should be honored with a celebration that they feel part of and will appreciate, if not always remember.

Here are some simple tips on how to help seniors put aside the holiday blues and participate in your Thanksgiving festivities.

1. Honor their traditions. We all grow up into independent adults with our own families and our own way of doing things. Along the way, we may alter certain traditions to express our own ideas on how to make the holidays special. Take the time to reflect back on the Thanksgivings from your childhood and make a point to incorporate some important aspect of these occasions into your celebration. Call attention to it, make sure everyone understands, and appreciates, that this is a tradition that was introduced by your parents and has always made Thanksgiving special for you. Try and find a tradition, even if it’s as simple as a recipe, that has been passed down multiple generations and encourage the seniors to reminisce on their own early experiences with this particular tradition.

2. Give them a responsibility. We often feel that the best way to honor the elderly is by doing everything for them. This can result in the person being isolated to the corner of a room and feeling ignored. So, involve them. Put them to work!

If your mother likes to cook, have her teach the grandkids how to make cookies, ask her to snap green beans, wash cranberries, or, if she’s capable of more complicated tasks, make biscuits or a home made pie. If gardening is her thing, ask her to arrange flowers for the centerpiece.

If Dad was always happy working in the yard, don’t shy from asking to him to take the grandkids out to play in piled leaves. Or encourage him to read a story or, better yet, tell one from his childhood.

3. Share pictures. Take a fun ride down memory lane. Break out the photo albums and ask your parents to narrate the pictures to the grandkids. Replace the photos in your regular picture frames with ones from previous holidays. Create a slide show for the family to watch. Or get a custom puzzle created using a photo that will be special to a senior parent. Make it a surprise: it could be a picture from their wedding or of a grandchild they have yet to meet. Have the whole family work together to finish the puzzle and reveal the picture.

4. Commemorate the menu. Make a nice menu for your Thanksgiving feast to commemorate each year’s meal. Print the menu out on nice paper and a give it a fun and creative design – some stencil, or glitter, or decoratively torn edges. Put the menu with each place setting; include appetizers, main courses, side dishes and desserts. You can even add drink pairings for each course. Assign credit to the people responsible for special recipes that have been passed down from your parents, or generations before them. This menu can share a sweet piece of family heritage and show how the same dishes have been enjoyed for generations. Save a menu from each year as a keepsake.

5. Have them share a memento. Older generations have wonderful, rich stories to share; a whole lifetime’s worth. Ask them to bring a memento from their past to each year’s Thanksgiving dinner and share the story that the object represents. These could be war medals, pieces of jewelry, old newspaper clippings, a book, or an old record cover. Honor their revered place at the table, and position in the family, by dedicating a moment to them and their cherished memories.

The Thanksgiving holiday is one the whole family should enjoy, especially our aging parents who are responsible for all the love in the house. Take the time to make sure they remain an important part of these precious occasions.

We’d love to hear how you honor your parents on Thanksgiving Day. Please post a comment and share your own story or idea.

Tags: aging loved ones, elderly, Helpful tips, holiday care

Posted in: Helpful tips, aging loved ones, seniors | No Comments »

Putting Home Care in Norcross GA in Perspective

By , February 7, 2010

The Evolution of Home Care
In the first century of our country’s history there was no such thing as nursing homes or assisted living. Society was mostly rural and people lived in their own homes. Families cared for their loved ones at home till death took them. In the latter part of the 1800’s because of an increasingly urban society, many urban families were often unable to care for loved ones because of lack of space or because all family members including children were employed six days a week for 12 hours a day. During this period many unfortunate people needing care were housed in County poor houses or in facilities for the mentally ill. Conditions were deplorable. In the early 1900’s home visiting nurses started reversing this trend of institutionalizing and allowed many care recipients to remain in their homes. Nursing homes or so-called rest homes were also being built with public donations or government funds. With the advent of Social Security in 1936, a nursing home per diem stipend was included in the Social Security retirement income and this government subsidy spurred the construction of nursing homes all across the country.

By the end of the 1950s it was apparent that Social Security beneficiaries were living longer and that the nursing home subsidy could eventually bankrupt Social Security. But in order to protect the thousands and thousands of existing nursing homes Congress had to find a way to provide a subsidy but remove it as an entitlement under Social Security. In 1965 Medicare and Medicaid were created through an amendment to the Social Security Act. Under Medicare, nursing homes were only reimbursed on behalf of Social Security beneficiaries for short-term rehabilitation. Under Medicaid, nursing homes were reimbursed for impoverished disabled Americans and impoverished aged Americans over the age of 65. It has never been the intent of Congress to pay for nursing home care for all Americans. The nursing home entitlement for all aged Americans was now gone.

Over the last 40 years, there has been a gradual change away from the use of nursing homes for long-term care towards the use of home care and community living arrangements that also provide in-house care.

With Proper Planning People Could Remain in Their Homes for the Rest of Their Lives
We are seeing a trend towards working conditions like those in urban America in the early 1900’s where both husband and wife are working and putting in longer hours. We are also seeing a return of the trend in the early part of the 20th century where outside visitor caregivers are becoming available to replace working caregiver’s and allow the elderly to receive long-term care in their homes. In addition there is a significant trend in the past few years for Medicaid and Medicare to pay for long-term care in the home instead of in nursing homes.

Given enough money for paid providers or government funding for the same, a person would never have to leave his home to receive long-term care. All services could be received in the home. Adequate long-term care planning or having substantial income can allow this to happen.

We only need to look at wealthy celebrities to recognize this fact. Christopher Reeve, the movie star, was totally disabled but he had enough money to buy care services and remain in his home. President Ronald Reagan suffered from Alzheimer’s for many years but received care at his California ranch. He was also wealthy enough to pay for care when needed. Or what about Annette Funicello or Richard Pryor? Income from their movie careers allowed them to receive care with their multiple sclerosis at home. We will be willing to bet that Mohammed Ali, who is severely disabled with Parkinson’s disease, will probably never see the inside of a care facility, unless he chooses to go there to die. With the proper planning and the money it provides, most of us could remain in our homes to receive long-term care and we would never have to go to an institution or a hospital.

The Popularity of Home Care
Most of those receiving long-term care and most caregivers prefer a home environment. Out of an estimated 8 million older Americans receiving care, about 5.4 million or 67% are in their own home or the home of a family member or friend. Most older people prefer their home over the unfamiliar proposition of living in a care facility. Family or friends attempt to accommodate the wishes of loved ones even though caregiving needs might warrant a different environment. Those needing care feel comfortable and secure in familiar surroundings and a home is usually the best setting for that support.

Often the decision to stay in the home is dictated by funds available. It is much cheaper for a wife to care for her husband at home than to pay out $2,000 to $4,000 a month for care in a facility. Likewise, it’s much less costly and more loving for a daughter to have her widowed mother move in to the daughter’s home than to liquidate mom’s assets and put her in a nursing home. Besides, taking care of our parents or spouses is an obligation most of us feel very strongly about.

For many long-term care recipients the home is an ideal environment. These people may be confined to the home but continue to lead active lives engaging in church service, entertaining grandchildren, writing histories, corresponding, pursuing hobbies or doing handwork activities. Their care needs might not be that demanding and might include occasional help with house cleaning and shopping as well as help with getting out of bed, dressing and bathing. Most of the time these people don’t need the supervision of a 24/7 caregiver. There are, however, some care situations that make it difficult to provide long-term care in the home.

Please note from the first graph below that a great amount of home care revolves around providing help with activities of daily living. Note from the second graph below that the average care recipient has need for help with multiple activities of daily living. Finally, it should be noted from the second graph that well over half of home care recipients are cognitively impaired. This typically means they need supervision to make sure they are not a danger to themselves or to others. In many cases, this supervision may be required on a 24-hour basis. (Graphs were derived from the 1999 national caregivers survey, courtesy www.longtermcarelink.net.)

It is precisely the ongoing and escalating need for help with activities of daily living or the need for extended supervision that often makes it impossible for a caregiver to provide help in the home. Either the physical demands for help with activities of daily living or the time demand for supervision can overwhelm an informal caregiver. This untenable situation usually leads to finding another care setting for the loved one. On the other hand if there are funds to hire paid providers to come into the home, there would be no need for finding another care setting.

Problems That May Prevent Home Care from Being an Option
Caregivers face many challenges providing care at home. A wife caring for her husband may risk injury trying to move him or help him bathe or use the toilet. Another situation may be the challenge of keeping constant surveillance on a spouse with advanced dementia. Or a son may live 500 miles from his disabled parents and find himself constantly traveling to and from his home, trying to manage a job and his own family as well taking care of the parents. Some caregivers simply don’t have the time to watch over loved ones and those needing care are sometimes neglected.

The problems with maintaining home care are mainly due to the inadequacies or lack of resources with informal caregivers, but they may also be caused by incompetent formal caregivers. These problems center on five issues:

1.    Inadequate care provided to a loved one

2.    Lack of training for caregivers

3.    Lack of social stimulation for care recipients

4.    Informal caregivers unable to handle the challenge

5.    Depression and physical ailments from caregiver burnout

In order to make sure home care is a feasible option and can be sustained for a period of time, caregivers must recognize these problems, deal with them and correct them. The responsibility for recognizing these problems and solving them is another function of the long-term care planning process and the team of specialists and advisers involved.

Adequate Funding Solves Most Problems Associated with Providing Home Care
None of the problems discussed in this article would be an obstacle if there were enough money to pay for professional services in the home. These services would be used to overcome the problems discussed in the previous section. If someone desires to remain in the home the rest of his or her life, adequate preplanning could provide the solution.

This planning must occur prior to retirement. The most obvious way to provide sufficient funds for home care is to buy a long-term care insurance policy when someone is younger, healthy and able to afford the lower premiums. If insurance is not an option, then money must be put aside early in life to pay for care in the future. The only other option is to be rich.

Unfortunately, very few people address the issue of needing long-term care when they are older. This leads to a lack of planning and in turn leads to few options for elder care when the time comes. Lack of planning means most people do not have the luxury of remaining in their homes and must rely on Medicaid support in a nursing home to finish out the rest of their lives.

If you need more information about caring for your loved one, please visit us at www.americarealliance.com.

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Understanding Our Aging Loved Ones’ Medications: Important Information for Every Family!

By , January 31, 2010

As people age, the likelihood of taking medicines increases; studies show that the more medicines people take, the more likely they are to be taking a medicine they may not need. It is, therefore, important to take an active role in understanding what is being prescribed for you. In order to better manage chronic conditions, reduce the chance of harmful drug interactions and get the best value for your money, keep in mind that you are part of a team—along with your doctors and other health care professionals—working to make good health care decisions.

Medicine Record

To start with, it is important that you keep good track of all the medicines you are taking; this will also help to reduce your risk of harmful drug interactions. Make your own list of medicines by keeping a medicine record. Update your medicine record whenever you start on a new medicine or when you are no longer taking a medicine.

Include the following in your medicine record:

• Name of medicine

• What it is for

• Name of doctor who prescribed it

• How and when to take

• How much to take (dosage)

• Color/shape of medicine

• Any side effects or warnings

You can also take advantage of medication tracker software on your personal computer.

See http://www.consumerreports.org/health/medication-tracker/index.htm for help organizing and tracking your medicines, as well as other information to share with your doctor.

Talking to Your Doctor

It is important to get into the habit of asking your doctor questions about your medicines each time you receive a new prescription. If you receive prescriptions from more than one doctor, always take your medicine record with you and let your doctor know which medicines you are currently taking.

Questions to Ask About Your Medicines:

• Why do I take this prescription? Is it for long- or short-term use?

• How do I take this medicine (how often, with/without food, etc.)?

• What are its side effects? What should I do if they occur?

• Can I substitute a non-drug alternative or a generic?

• Does it duplicate any of the other prescriptions I am taking?

• What should I do if I miss a dose?

• If I cut a pill in half, will it be ineffective?

• Does this drug interact with any of the other prescriptions I take?

• How important is this prescription given my finances and overall health?

• Does my health or age make this drug unsafe for me?

Don’t Forget to Mention. . .

• Any over-the-counter (OTC) medicines you are currently taking such as pain relievers, antacids and laxatives; be sure to include any herbal, vitamin or dietary supplements as well.

• Any research you have done.

Go to http://www.CRBestBuyDrugs.org to download simple reports featuring comparisons of drugs by medical condition or drug class.

Keeping Up with Your Medicines

• Keep medicines in plain sight in a cool, dry place like a kitchen counter or desktop.

• Do not keep your medicines in the refrigerator, unless told to do so by your doctor, pharmacist or the instructions on your medicine bottle.

• Do not keep your medicines in a bathroom where they can become damaged and less effective from shower steam or moisture.

• Set timers and reminders to take your medicines, if needed. Program clocks for when you are at home, and cell phones and watches when you are traveling.

• When flying, carry your medicines with you; do not pack them in your checked luggage. Check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for the most current information about traveling with medicines at http://www.tsa.gov or 1.866.289.9673.

• Avoid having to make last minute refills. Mark your calendar in advance or look into a mail-order pharmacy, which can be less expensive.

The best way to keep up with your medicines is to keep your medicine record and bottles within easy reach.

Overcoming Some Medicine Hurdles

Sometimes people avoid taking prescribed medicines. If you are one of these people, ask yourself if any of the following apply to you:

I have trouble affording it — If a medicine is expensive, you may decide not to get the prescription filled. Talk to your doctor about the cost of a drug to see if there are less expensive generic medicines.

I don’t feel any different when taking the drug, or, my symptoms have gone away — Sometimes it is hard to tell when a medicine is working; many medicines work as a “preventative” by preventing your symptoms or conditions from getting worse. Understanding which medicines work to prevent your symptoms from getting worse will help in following your drug routine.

My symptoms are worsening, or, I’m having side effects — Due to changes in your body as you age, prescriptions you have taken for years may begin to affect you differently; signs of memory loss, irritability or loss of coordination can be due to drug interactions rather than medical conditions. It is important to record any change in symptoms or side effects, and share this information in detail with your doctor immediately. This may result in taking a lower dose, changing when you take the prescription, or taking a different medicine altogether.

My medicines are complicated to take — Especially when managing several medicines, it becomes more difficult to observe all of the rules required for each medicine. Getting organized with your medicine record is the easiest way to get into the habit of taking your medicines successfully.

The most important aspect of your drug routine is that it is manageable.

Getting the Best Value for Your Medicines

Review your needs every year

Evaluate your prescription drug plan and compare it with your needs every year. There can be major changes in the pharmaceutical and insurance industries each year that will affect what benefits are being offered and what drugs are covered (and at what prices).

Look into your medicine choices

Doctors do not know what prescriptions are covered by your insurance company. Ask your insurance company for a copy of your drug plan “formulary” (which is a list of all medicines covered by your insurance company) and bring it to your doctors’ appointments. Together, you can evaluate the choice of medicines that will be most effective.

Consider a generic

“Generics” are copies of brand-name medicines whose patents have expired (expirations occur after the drug has been on the market many years). Because a drug has been on the market for so long, it is proven. Generics are less expensive because the research has already been done and the drug has already been tested by the original manufacturer. Makers of generic drugs are not allowed to copy the exact look of the original brand-name drug so a generic drug may look different than the original brand-name medicine, but all generic drugs must maintain the same chemical make-up as the original.

Shop around

Consider all of your drug plan’s preferred pharmacies and compare prices. Ask about pharmacy discount cards and senior citizen discounts; ask your insurance company about online or mail-order pharmacies.

Help Paying for Your Medicines

After reviewing ways to save money on your medicines, you may find that you are still having trouble paying for them. Here are some websites that can provide additional assistance:

• Medicare Extra Help Program provides information about the Social Security assistance program and application process for the Medicare Part D Subsidy: www.ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp.

• State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program (SPAP) provides information about any available state-funded assistance programs for prescription drug costs: www.medicare.gov/spap.asp.

• Pharmaceutical Assistance Program (PAP) provides information about pharmaceutical companies that offer assistance programs for the drugs they manufacture: www.medicare.gov/pap.

Finding Answers

There are community experts who can help you evaluate your needs for the best prescription drug plan for you. To find a AAA or SHIP near you, call the Eldercare Locator at 1.800.677.1116 or visit the website at www.eldercare.gov.

AmeriCare home care services provide medication reminders and assistance with transportation to doctor’s visits. Keeping our seniors safe and healthy is our priority. Find an AmeriCare office near you by visiting http://americareinfo.com, or call 1-800-610-2029.

Tags: aging loved ones, caregiver, companionship, in-home care, in-home care provider, medication reminders, medications, mental condition, new mother, respite care

Posted in: Americare home care, aging, aging loved ones, elder care, glaucoma, home care, medication reminders, medications, senior care, seniors

January 2010 is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, Learn How to Help Aging Family Members Who Have This Disease

By , January 13, 2010

When an aging family member starts to have problems with their vision, many times that loss can be attributed to glaucoma. It’s important for seniors and their family members to understand the causes and treatments for glaucoma so that the affected senior can live independently for as long as possible.

Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes loss of sight by damaging a part of the eye called the optic nerve. This nerve sends information from your eyes to your brain. When glaucoma damages your optic nerve, you begin to lose patches of vision, usually side vision (peripheral vision). Over time, glaucoma may also damage straight ahead (central) vision. You may not notice a loss of side vision until you have lost a great deal of your sight. When checking for glaucoma, eye doctors usually look for damage to the optic nerve and any loss of side vision. They may also check your eye pressure.

Glaucoma is often called “the sneak thief of sight.” That’s because people usually do not notice any signs of the disease until they have already lost significant vision. Once lost, vision can’t be restored.

More than 2.2 million Americans age 40 and older have open angle glaucoma, the most common form of glaucoma. At least half don’t even know they have it.

What are the Different Types of Glaucoma?

There are many types of glaucoma. Often, the cause of high pressure in the eye can help tell the type of glaucoma and the best treatment for it. The most common types include:

Chronic (Open Angle) Glaucoma
This is the most common type. In open angle glaucoma, aqueous fluid drains too slowly and pressure inside the eye builds up. It usually results from aging of the drainage channel, which doesn’t work as well over time. However, younger people can also get this type of glaucoma.

Normal Tension Glaucoma
This is a form of open angle glaucoma not related to high pressure. People with normal tension glaucoma may be unusually sensitive to normal levels of pressure. Reduced blood supply to the optic nerve may also play a role in normal tension glaucoma.

Acute (Angle Closure) Glaucoma
Less than 10 percent of Caucasians or African-Americans have this form, but for those of Asian and Native American descent, the risks are as high as for open angle glaucoma. Hispanics are midway between these groups. It causes a sudden rise in pressure, requiring immediate, emergency medical care. The signs are usually serious and may include blurred vision, severe headaches, eye pain, nausea, vomiting or seeing rainbow-like halos around lights. Occasionally, the condition may be without symptoms; similar to open angle.

Secondary Glaucoma
Another 10 percent of glaucoma cases come from certain diseases and conditions that damage the eye’s drainage system. These include diabetes, leukemia, sickle-cell anemia, some forms of arthritis, cataracts, eye injuries or inflammation of the eye, steroid drug use and growth of unhealthy blood vessels.

Post-Surgical Glaucoma
Some surgeries, such as retinal reattachments, increase the chance of getting glaucoma.

Getting more involved in your treatment
Even if surgery or drugs lower pressure in your eye, it’s still possible to lose vision. Therefore, you and your doctor must carefully monitor the disease.
Since you will be visiting your eye doctor regularly, take time and care in choosing a person who you are comfortable with. Your doctor should understand that your questions and concerns are important. A doctor who is willing to work with you, listen to your concerns and provide the best treatment, plays a large part in your success against glaucoma.

You have to help save your sight
You may need medicines every day for the rest of your life. Find support and encouragement from your family, friends and others. Sometimes it helps to talk to people who have experienced the same thing. It can help you to discuss side effects, share ways to remember your medicines and celebrate getting your glaucoma under control.

Unfortunately, there are a few people whose eyesight will continue to get worse, despite doing all the right things to control their glaucoma. Doctors aren’t sure why this happens, but research in this area continues.

The future holds great promise for treating glaucoma. New medicines are being developed. Other treatments may soon become available. In the meantime, take heart in knowing that you’re doing everything possible to treat your glaucoma successfully. The doctor/patient team approach, support from others and promising scientific discoveries will help you look forward to a bright future.

Questions for your eye doctor

You will have many questions as your doctor diagnoses and treats your glaucoma. It’s helpful to keep a list of these questions, especially if they come to mind in between your eye appointments. Write all your questions down and bring the list with you, then discuss them with your doctor. Here are some questions many people have:

•    What do these medicines do?
•    How much will they cost? Will my insurance help pay for them? (These may be questions for your insurance company, not your doctor.)
•    What are the possible side effects of my medicines?
•    Can I do anything to lower the chance of side effects or reduce the effects?
•    What should I do if I miss a dose?
•    Will I need surgery? What are the benefits and drawbacks of laser surgery? Of glaucoma surgery?
•    What will my vision be like after surgery?
•    How long will recovery take? How will I need to change my usual activities?
•    Will I be able to drive? Go to work?

If you or an aging loved one is suffering from vision loss, get it checked out immediately. AmeriCare home care services can assist seniors with errands, grocery shopping, light housekeeping and more. Let an AmeriCare home care staff member keep you or your loved one safe while being treated for glaucoma or any other vision impairment. Find an AmeriCare office near you by visiting http://americareinfo.com, or call 1-800-610-2029.

Tags: aging loved ones, Americare home care, glaucoma, seniors, vision impaired

Posted in: Americare home care, aging, aging loved ones, elder care, glaucoma, home care, senior care, seniors, vision impaired

Seniors and the “Post-Holiday Blues”

By Debbie Reis, President, January 6, 2010

There are seniors who find that as the holiday season unfolds they feel progressively disappointed, stressed and sad. Older adults may not feel so excited about winter holidays as they used to. It can be caused by a number of things, but can be dealt with as part of the range of normal feelings. Progress can come from accepting the negative feelings as well as taking proactive steps and healthy holiday tips to get through the season.
Possible Causes of Holiday Blues Among Older Adults
It can be as simple as financial and social pressures or as complex as a lingering loneliness or grief which is intensified by all the talk about family closeness and love. When individuals have lost family members or friends the sadness is often intensified during this time of year. There is also reason to believe the decreased exposure to light adds to the mix due to shorter days and the tendency to stay inside during the winter.

There are many influencing factors that can contribute to seniors (individuals over, say, 65) being at particular risk of suffering from the “post-holiday blues,” including:

• Reminders of past losses of significant loved ones.
• Sadness over the contrast between “then” and “now”.
• Having spent the holidays alone.
• Fatigue.
• Coping with failing health.

Tips to Help Overcome These Factors:

• Keep a schedule. Write a routine down. Since there’s so much emotion in the air, choose not to act on winter depression only, but rather go by a schedule. Make it loose enough for extra activities, yet structured enough to give the day some shape. For example, set a time for meals. Do some physical activity in the morning. Read or watch a movie after lunch.
• Email or call at least one person, or socialize in other ways. Sometimes just a short chat can help relieve holiday stress.
• Consider walking outside, at a local mall, or another place with sights to see; enjoy nature or just go people watching.
• Have a cup of tea or coffee at a certain time each day.
• Take a shower and dress warmly.
• Open the shades, blinds or curtains. Sunlight has often been shown to be helpful in relieving seasonal affective depression. Some people even use seasonal affective disorder light therapy.
• Find TV programs or music to enjoy.
• Tend a garden or even plant something.
• Smile even if no one is looking. In fact, force a smile upon awakening. It can become a habit.
• Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a doctor or counselor.

The Effect of the Shorter Darker Days of Winter

For some people, the shorter, darker days of winter are enough to bring them down. SAD, which is short for Seasonal Affective Disorder, affects millions of people of all ages. The word “affective” relates to emotions, and for those who experience SAD, their emotions go into a tail-spin throughout the winter months, causing such symptoms as depression, fatigue, anxiety, chronic over-eating and social withdrawal that persist until Spring brings longer, lighter days.

If you feel down for days on end during the weeks and months following the winter holidays, it’s important to seek advice from a mental health professional as soon as possible, particularly if you notice that your sleep and appetite are affected. SAD is very treatable; even the most severe cases can receive almost immediate relief once treatment has begun.

The American Psychiatric Association reports that “80% to 90% of all people with depression–even those with the severest cases–improve once they receive appropriate treatment.” Basic ways to treat depression include therapy, medication, and a combination of the two. There are therapists who are particularly skilled at helping those who are suffering from depression so that they’re better able to look to the new year–and many more holiday and post-holiday seasons–with renewed energy and optimism.

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