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The Benefits Of Making New Friends

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Reasons For Senior Citizens To Make New Friends

Those who have just retired or are planning to soon likely have a whole host of things on their to-do list. Retirement comes with a bit of frustrating irony in the fact that free time has become plentiful, but there may be a lack of folks with whom to pursue new activities. The reason for this is that it grows more difficult to maintain a full complement of friends and acquaintances during these years.

Stanford’s Center on Longevity recently found that older folks run a high risk of becoming disengaged from their social groups as they age. In fact, there is a strong likelihood that a high percentage of this age group will report feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Detrimental Health Effects Of Social Isolation

The fact is that loneliness and social estrangement are not just demoralizing and sad, they can also be harmful to your health status. Detachment from friends and society, in general, can negatively impact physical and mental health in those of more advanced age. Fortunately, there is no need to surrender to these types of feelings.

Growing Your Friend List After Retirement

There are a number of methods for establishing new friendships once you have made the decision to retire.

1. Volunteer Work

Few things are better for improving your community as well as your own well-being than helping others. No matter if you spend time at a soup kitchen or take care of stray animals at the shelter, volunteer opportunities to meet every taste and availability abound.

Assisting Hands Houston | Elder Care in Houston Texas2. Find Affinity Clubs

Also, a terrific way to build new friendships in the post-retirement years is to take part in shared interests with others. Clubs can be great for this purpose, as they unite those with common hobbies and interests in order to facilitate the pursuit of such activities. Sharing expertise and learning from others is ideal for forming new bonds.

Further, clubs of all sorts can be a wonderful conduit for generating interest in entirely new subjects and activities. Whether a club involves some sort of physical activity or is more intellectual in nature, the relationships fostered in these settings can prove very valuable over the coming years.

3. Mentoring The Young

With the population continuing to age, there is no limit to the ways in which senior citizens can provide critical mentorship and advice to other demographic groups. Their work experience, educational background, financial resources and other attributes make mentoring a perfect fit for seasoned citizens. The insights seniors can offer span the realms of business, culture, education and more, and younger generations can only benefit from listening and learning from these individuals.

4. Relocation To A Senior-Focused Community

Though some might initially balk at the prospect, relocating to a senior-focused residential community is often the push in the right direction older individuals need in order to stay active. With organized activities galore and nearly endless social opportunities around every corner, assisted living, independent living and memory care facilities can be an ideal place to explore new avenues and make lasting friendships. Assisting Hands Houston is among the finest elder care services in Houston, and is known for providing the social outlet’s senior citizens crave and need.

Assisting Hands Houston And Beneficial Socialization

All of the communities under the Assisting Hands Houston umbrella offer unique programs and organized activities meant to give seniors the chance to make friends, keep their minds active and engage with the world around them. Interested families can visit any of the participating communities’ website to review a sample calendar of events. This gives a great feel for the sort of vitality that is encouraged and achieved every day by seniors affiliated with Assisting Hands Houston.

Call or contact Assisting Hands Houston today for more information!

Seven Healthy Hobbies For Your Loved Ones

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Older Adults Can Do These 7 Healthy Hobbies

We all know that sometimes our favorite things to do aren’t really that good for us, and if your favorite things are not doing your health any good, then it’s time to pick up some new hobbies. For example, watching too much television doesn’t do anything for your fitness or mental goals. The good news is you don’t have to be a master at cooking vegan dishes or being obsessed with yoga to enjoy things that are good for you. With that said, here are a few hobbies you can do if you want to become healthier.

1. Bird Watching

Bird watching is one of the best things you can do and there are so many benefits of doing this hobby. For starters, when you are outdoors, you are being physical. Believe it or not, bird watching requires quite a bit of moving around.

Bird watching involves waiting around quietly and for long periods of time, so you will get plenty of peace and quiet, which is good for your mental health. It keeps you alert too because you will need to immediately grab your binoculars when you spot a bird. Other benefits include being good for your soul and it is a good social activity. Many people go in groups to do bird watching because the common interest in it brings them together.

2. Golfing

Many of the benefits associated with bird watching are experienced when you golf. Sure, you have to stay on one landscape when you golf, but you are still outside and getting fresh air. You’ll enjoy a number of cardiovascular benefits when you are out golfing, but there are social aspects of golf too. In fact, many people consider golf to be one of the most social activities you can do.

Even if you’re not playing a full game of golf, you can hang out in the clubhouse and don’t forget that it is a physical activity because you’re constantly swinging a club and walking along. Not only that, but golf can give you an ego boost. When you experience a victory, even a small one, then you will instantly gain confidence.

Assisting Hands Houston | Elder Care Activities3. Gardening

Gardening gets you outside and it’s quite physical. This hobby, like the other hobbies we will discuss throughout the rest of this article, offers the same benefits of golfing and bird watching. If you want to do something fun, relaxing and healthy, then take up gardening because you will love.

4. Photography

Photography is one of those hobbies that can be done outdoors or indoors. When you are snapping photos, you will be moving around and the chances are you will be bending over and standing up repeatedly. Photography can be very social too, especially if you are taking photos of human subjects.

5. Join a Walking Club

You can join a walking club. In fact, many Houston elder care services recommend doing this. When you join a walking club, you will feel more connected with your community. If you don’t want to join a walking club, then have a friend go with you on a daily walk or even just a few days a week.

6. Cooking

Cooking is a great activity that is healthy, especially when you focus on cooking and preparing healthy meals. You can even take cooking classes that are near your home. You will be dicing, slicing and chopping and you’ll be on your feet, which are all physical things. If you do take a class, then you will enjoy the social aspects of cooking.

7. Taking Classes

If you want to learn something new, then take a class because learning new things can be challenging and it is good for your mind. Many people believe that one of the benefits of Houston elder care services is they offer classes. With so many classes to choose from, you will surely find one you will enjoy.

As you can see, all of the above hobbies offer similar benefits, which includes social benefits, psychical benefits, and mental benefits. If you want to become healthier or remain healthy, then consider taking up some of the above hobbies and if you’re in Houston, then consider going into an elder care facility. Many facilities offer the above activities, but even if you don’t decide to go to one, make sure you still remain active by doing the above. The sooner you pick up one of those hobbies, the sooner you’ll experience the benefits it offers.

We invite you to call or contact Assisting Hands Houston if you have any more questions!

Paying Attention To Your Loved Ones Conditions

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9 Treatable Conditions Similar To Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease does not cause all types of dementia. In fact, many conditions mimic Alzheimer’s, and in some cases to the extent that they have doctors stumped. Although it is never a good situation when symptoms include confusion, personality changes, and memory loss, there is still hope. With early intervention, many of the conditions mimicking Alzheimer’s disease can be treated, along with in home care in Houston TX. From side effects from drugs to vitamin deficiencies, many things can occur to cause confusion and memory loss.

Treatable Condition Often Mistaken For Alzheimer’s Disease

Actually, there are more than 100 conditions that have symptoms that might be mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease. The following are nine of the more common ones.

Assisting Hands Houston | Signs of Alzheimer's Disease1. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

When vitamin B12 levels are low, it may cause a kind of anemia that is characterized by slowness, irritability, and confusion.

2. Other Vitamin Deficiencies

Deficiencies in vitamins B6 and B1 may produce Alzheimer’s-like symptoms as well. Folic acid and niacin deficiencies may cause dementia as well, although this is rare.

3. Depression

When older adults are depressed they frequently are afraid they may have Alzheimer’s. That is due to the fact that depression may cause disorientation, lack of focus, slowness, and forgetfulness.

4. Thyroid Problems

Dementia-like symptoms can be caused by either too little or too much thyroid activity.

5. Medication Side Effects

Medications tend to be a common cause for cognitive decline. Confusion may be a side effect of a certain prescription drug that a senior is taking. The individual could also be having an adverse reaction to the medication they are taking or it could an interaction between several different prescriptions. Dementia-like symptoms are caused by some medications that get prescribed to seniors since as you age the kidneys and liver are not as efficient. Drugs may build up within the body, which can cause a toxic reaction which results in mental decline.

The following are substances that might cause older adults to have cognitive problems:

  • Cholesterol drugs
  • Sleeping pills
  • Acid reflux drugs
  • Cardiovascular drugs
  • Corticosteroids
  • Narcotics
  • Antihistamines
  • Anti-anxiety medication
  • Antidepressants
  • Sedatives
  • Alcohol (when there is alcoholism present)

6. Withdrawal from Drugs

Alzheimer’s-like symptoms can not only be caused by drugs but discontinuing using prescriptions may as well. The resulting disorientation and confusion may mimic cognitive issues that Alzheimer’s disease is associated with.

Two common examples are alcohol withdrawal syndrome and withdrawing from anti-anxiety drugs suddenly.

7. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

Brain fluid gradually building up may cause pressure that can end up damaging brain tissue. Abnormal walking is one of the very first symptoms that might appear in NPH cases. Others include confusion and delirium.

8. Brain Tumor

Meningioma are a type of benign tumor that may cause a cognitive loss at times and is mistakenly thought to be Alzheimer’s disease. It is often possible to surgically remove the tumors.

9. Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia may be caused by a mini stroke or stroke. Individuals who experience mini strokes frequently don’t even know they have had one. It is only after dementia signs start to arise that they suspect there might be a problem.

Sometimes vascular dementia can be treated with certain medications and cognitive rehab.

Being Aware Of Early Alzheimer’s Signs

If you or someone you love have symptoms that may possibly be Alzheimer’s, you should speak to your doctor as soon as you can. Real Alzheimer’s may be more effectively managed through the use of preemptive care, which is why early detection is so critical.

For any more questions you have regarding Alzheimer’s disease or in home care for your loved ones call or contact Assisting Hands Houston today! Our representatives are waiting to answer any questions and address any concerns that you may have.

Get Ready Financially For Assisted Living

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Making Financial Arrangements For Assisted Living

Seniors in need of assisted living services and the families that take care of them face challenges in finding the resources they need. Meeting the financial obligations of good assisted living care can be particularly daunting. Fortunately, there is plenty of information and assistance available for seniors and families facing this prospect. When it comes to finding information on home health Houston Texas has no shortage of places to turn.

Planning Ahead

Assisted living community/facility selection can take months, and moving a senior is a complex task in its own right. Getting the family’s financial resources sorted out is also a lengthy process. This is why seniors and their families need to start discussing the shift to assisted living well in advance. Planning the move out well ahead of time gives families a chance to address concerns that might well get overlooked, like insurance options for seniors in assisted living.

When In Doubt, Always Ask Questions

There’s no such thing as being too well informed. This is especially true when it comes to considering the merits of a specific assisted living community. Besides gaining a full understanding of the level of care a facility has to offer, thorough questioning is required to fully explore all of the payment options and financial angles. It may be possible to reduce initial move-in costs or even month-to-month expenses by asking the right questions. Any assisted living contract needs to be scrupulously examined prior to signing to confirm that all of the financial arrangements are acceptable.

Consider Bridge Loans

Sometimes a senior needs to transition into an assisted living facility quickly, and the financial resources tied up in their home are not available to ease the changeover. Bridge loans are ideal for relieving financial hardships in situations like this. A good loan gives families the breathing space they need to ensure that they get maximum value for assets like homes. Bridge loans are intended to meet all of the expenses of assisted living prior to the successful closure of a home sale.

Don’t Overlook Veterans’ Benefits

Both veterans and veterans’ spouses may be entitled to financial assistance that can help meet the cost of assisted living services. Senior veterans can get especially useful support through the Aid and Attendance Program. To get started, go online or call 1-800-827-1000 to get in touch with a Veterans Regional Office.

Alternative Living Arrangements

It’s a good idea to maintain flexibility when planning for assisted living arrangements. Shared suites in a community designed for companion living can economize while simultaneously giving seniors much-needed companionship. This is an excellent compromise that reduces costs without bringing down the level of care seniors will enjoy in an assisted living community.

Get Expert Financial Advice

Assisting Hands Houston | Affordable In Home Care in HoustonA financial professional with senior finance experience can help unlock the full range of opportunities available to seniors going into an assisted living community. Referred to as financial concierges or financial advisors, these experts have all of the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate home sales, lending, and credit options.

Certain seniors and families may find themselves in a position to benefit from tax deductions for money spent on senior care. Seniors who require advanced medical support are particularly likely to be eligible for tax relief. Speak with an accountant or tax advisor to learn more.

Another potential financial resource that can cover at least some of the cost of assisted living services is Medicaid. Similar to the tax deductions described above, this is more likely to be a partial support rather than a comprehensive solution. Some seniors may also be in a position to convert a life insurance policy into an asset that can help to pay for long-term care.

The assistance of a professional streamlines and simplifies the process of moving a senior into assisted living without letting anything important get overlooked. Consult a trusted advisor to verify that all of the useful options are fully explored. Expert assistance makes the process of paying for assisted living much less complicated and challenging.

By contacting Assisting Hands Houston or calling today you will not only help yourself but also your loved ones! We are here to help every step of the way and answer any questions you may have regarding the services we provide and how we benefit both you and your loves ones!

The Important Questions To Ask Regarding Elder In Home Care

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Questions to Ask an In-Home Care Company

If you are considering hiring an in-home care company to care for your loved one, your primary concern will be ensuring your loved one is receiving the best care possible. It can be challenging to find the right outside party to care for these very personal responsibilities. Most families decide to vet care providers themselves; however, it can be quite difficult to know what questions that you should ask and what red flags to be aware of.

The following list of questions will help you determine the services that a company offers and determine the quality of care your family member will be receiving. A reputable home care company will offer amazing customer service and will be willing to answer all of your questions.

Remember that companies may do the initial intake either on the phone or in-person. There may be fees associated with this process, especially if it is a face to face meeting. During this process, you will discuss your loved one’s needs and gain an understanding of the services that the company offers. Use the following list of questions to ensure that you have the information that you need to make an informed decision.

Questions about the Business

  • How long has the company been in business?
  • What are the state licensing requirements for in-home care companies?
  • Is the company insured? (Get a copy of the company’s insurance declaration)
  • Are the caregivers bonded?
  • Does the company offer workers’ compensation for their employees?
  • Ask for a list of references from their past clients.

Questions about Care

  • Does the company offer a personalized care plan for each of their clients? What is included in a care plan?
  • Is the care plan updated regularly?
  • How are caregivers matched with clients?
  • Does the company have a policy for communicating with family members and the client?

Assisting Hands Houston | Elder Care Services in Houston TXQuestions about Caregiver Training and Selection Process

  • What is the process used for hiring caregivers?
  • Does the company conduct background checks on caregivers?
  • Is drug tests done? How often?
  • What type of training do caregivers receive?
  • Does the company require continuing education and training?
  • Will you be able to interview potential caregivers? Is there a fee associated with interviewing caregivers?

Questions about Company Policies

  • How are request or complaints handled?
  • Is it possible to replace a caregiver before the caregiver’s next shift?
  • What is the company policy for no-show or late caregivers?
  • Is there time minimums per shift or per work for caregivers?
  • Does the company specialize in certain types of care?
  • What services are not covered?
  • How are emergencies handled?
  • Are after hours phone calls answered by a staff member or an answering service?

Questions about Payment Methods

  • What are the forms of payment accepted?
  • Are there different rates for holidays, weekends or nights?
  • How often will you be billed?
  • Is there a deposit required for services?
  • Does the company accept long-term care insurance? If so, does the company bill the insurance company directly or will you need to pay the client and then file a reimbursement claim?

For more answer to your questions regarding senior in home care Houston contact Assisting Hands Houston today or call now for immediate assistance!

How To Save For Long Term Elder Care

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Money-Saving Strategies to Help Plan for Long-Term Care

Budgeting for a loved one’s long-term care can be a daunting task.

Assisting Hands Houston | Assisted Living Services in Houston TexasWhile many seniors have financial plans in place for retirement, through a personal savings account, 401(k), or pension plan, the cost of long-term care is often left out of these plans or the costs exceed their budget. As a result, many seniors end up needing specialized care when they don’t have the fund to cover the costs.

If a senior doesn’t have money saved away and they require long-term care, their loved ones might be left in a tight spot financially. Genworth Financial and CareScout conducted a survey finding that the national average cost for long-term care can range from $1,400 per month for adult day care services to almost $7,700 per month for a nursing home’s private room.

The odds that a family would not need to turn to some type of care assistance is not rare. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, almost 70% of adults over 65 years old will eventually need some type of long-term care.

Rather than taking risks, caregivers should begin working to save money for these long-term health care needs before it is needed.

What is Long-Term Care Insurance?

One of the best ways for you to plan ahead for your older loved one’s health support is to shop around for the best insurance plan. While Medicaid, Medicare, and private health insurance may cover some of the related costs, they typically don’t offer comprehensive medical coverage.

Long-term care insurance supplements these programs. When you need to use it, you will pay less money out of pocket. AARP explained that long-term care is not a medical expense which is why this care may lead to coverage gaps.

Some of these plans may also be pricey. There are many financial institutions that offer these programs, take the time to research several companies and the type of plans available, along with the pricing. This will ensure you can afford to comfortably pay the premiums each month and still receive the coverage your loved one needs.

It’s important to remember that the policy’s prices tend to increase as your loved one ages. If you’re interested in long-term care insurance, don’t several more years, while your loved one ages or develops serious health concerns. If a person is young and healthy person takes out this type of policy, the policy premiums will be significantly lower.

Tips for Saving Money for Long-Term Care

While a supplemental insurance policy may be helpful to some families, others find that it’s more cost effective than just paying for a long-term care plan themselves. If that’s the case in your family, you need to begin saving. That will help you have a safety net on standby.

There are various ways to start saving up for your loved one’s health care cost. Here are some that can get you started:

Create a dedicated account for long-term care

Set up a new account to cover potential health care costs. Whether you opt to open a personal savings account at the bank or invest, this fund should be set aside to cover the needs of your loved ones. This account should not be used for other purposes, you can’t be tempted to pull the funds out to use for other expenses. Because these funds are limited, you may need to have an accurate understanding of which services you can afford when you need it.

Stick to a contribution schedule

U.S. News & World Report states that you would be likely to save money if you start small, this makes the process easier. Create a schedule for adding money to the savings account that will help you achieve your goals. Whether you start by adding 5 percent of your paycheck or $10 per week, pick an amount that’s affordable. Add these funds to the long-term care fund and a timeline for when you add these contributions.

Many financial organizations allow you to use auto debit to take money from your checking account and deposit it directly into a savings account on schedule. After you feel comfortable with your ability to save, you can increase how much money you add each time.

You must be conscious of your spending

The more cautious you are on your spending, the more funds you’ll have available to save. Time.com says you don’t have to deprive yourself of luxuries when trying to save. However, you need to be careful of the purchases you make.

You should use coupons, discounts, compare various brands, and consider which products and upgrades are truly needed when shopping. By being cautious, you won’t end up spending more money than necessary. You should examine the type of purchases you make and decide which are perks and which are necessities. You may find that there are routine expenditures you follow out of habit and not out of a regular, actual need.

If you need help deciding on the type of account you need to set up long-term care or the best way to save money, reach out to a financial advisor. A financial advisor can help create a system that works for you. Whichever way you decide to save, planning can take the stress out of long-term care that offers the best benefit to you and your loved one.

Call or contact Assisting Hands Houston with any of the questions you may have about home healthcare agencies in Houston. If you are interested in learning about the services we provide visit here.

Fascinating Facts About Aging

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Facts About Aging

Assisting Hands Houston | Elder Care Services in Houston TexasThere are a number of pervasive myths about the elderly. Assisting Hands Houston works to dismiss those falsehoods. Our experiences with in=home care in Houston Texas have taught us a great deal. Our residents are teaching us new things every single day.

We’ve assembled a list that dispels many common assumptions about the aging population. The residents that we work with have plenty of energy, and they have a lot to contribute to society. They still work very hard, and they have a lot of fun too. Read over some of these facts and see what you can learn.

One in every eight American adults is over the age of 65.

In fact, one in every three Americans is over the age of 50. According to the data gathered by the 2010 Census, the senior population is actually growing at a faster rate than the youth population is. Because of this, the median age in the United States has risen from 35 up to 37. By 2030, it is expected that 1 in 5 American adults will be over the age of 65.

Elderly brains are still developing.

A lot of people assume that our brains stop growing and developing after a certain age. However, research has found that the brain can develop new neurons regardless of a person’s age. One study, which was published in the Journal of Neuroscience, looked at a group of 60-year-olds that took juggling lessons. The results of the study were impressive. The majority of patients saw growth in the portion of the brain that was responsible for visual perception. Our brains change when they take in new information, regardless of our age.

Your environment can impact health conditions.

A number of the health conditions that elderly individuals struggle with exist because of the environment that they grew up in. For example, people that are poor are more likely to eat poor diets or live in unsafe conditions. This can increase the risk of heart disease, and can even impact a person’s eyesight. It is more difficult to treat these conditions later on. That’s why it’s important to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise now.

Falls can be caused by a negative mindset.

Many elderly individuals are injured in falls. Surprisingly, these falls have been linked to a negative mindset. In a study that was conducted by the University of New South Wales, it was found that people that have anxieties about falling were more likely to fall than those that didn’t. When people are anxious, it can actually cause them to slip up and injure themselves.

Are there any compelling aging facts we’ve missed?

If you have some great information about aging, let us know by calling or contacting Assisting Hands Houston! We’re passionate about in-home care in Houston Texas, and we’d love to share the fact that you send.

Activities Of Daily Living (ADLs)

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Seniors and  Their Activities Of Daily Living (ADLs)

Activities of daily living (ADL) refer to the standard daily tasks that individuals do throughout the course of their day. Knowing if an individual is capable or not of performing daily living activities can help a medical professional know whether or not people are able to successfully live without any assistance. If a person is unable to perform daily tasks, then the individual may need assistance with their daily life activities, such as receiving elder care in Houston.

What determines an ADL?

Although there are some common events that are widely accepted to be daily tasks, usually ADLs are determined by various factors, including the following:

  • Environmental variables
  • What are specific circumstances of the individual being tracked for?
  • What organization or person is tracking the ADL?

ADLs are ultimately decided on by organizations like insurance companies and assisted living centers that monitor geriatric and senior citizen activity patterns. Those individuals collect a great deal of data that pertains to daily activity and are able to determine the most common ones.

There are three main categories of ADLs.

Basic ADLs

Assisting Hands Houston | Houston Assisted Living ServicesBADLs – are those fundamental tasks that individuals do on a daily basis. These activities are ones that we learn during our early childhoods and are performed continuously throughout an adult’s lifetime. They include the following:

  • Maintaining mobility
  • Walking
  • Bathing
  • Grooming
  • Dressing
  • Using the bathroom
  • Eating

One really good way to tell if you are doing something that is a BADL is if it occurs are part of your evening or morning routine. If it is, there is a good chance that it is a BADL that you are doing.

Instrumental ADLs

IADLs – Instrumental activities of daily living are often tasks that can improve your odds of surviving. These tasks are ones you learn in your transitional years going from childhood into adulthood. These are higher functioning activities. However, not everyone performs them. They include the following:

  • Telephone operation
  • Transportation
  • Food preparation
  • Accounting
  • Housekeeping
  • Shopping

Cooperative IADLs

In addition to regular IADLs, there are also certain tasks that adults do with some assistance from another individual, including the following:

  • Responding to emergencies
  • Raising children
  • Observing holidays
  • Managing medicine
  • Managing finances
  • Taking care of other living things

What happens if somebody I know is unable to perform an ADL?

When somebody you know or you are unable to perform two ADLs, find out what your options are by consulting with a medical professional.

Insurance companies created the ADL label to help them with knowing what type of long-term care an individual might qualify for. If somebody cannot perform an ADL, then the person might need assistance from an assisted living facility, live-in nurse or stay in the hospital temporarily in order to heal.

Insurance starts covering conditions whenever an individual is unable to perform two ADLs. Although ADLs may be used for covering specific conditions, but are used for senior care mainly.

What can I do to assist individuals who are unable to perform certain ADLs?

It can be difficult to take care of a person who has ADL issues. Usually, ADL care is left to individuals who are professional caretakers or medical professionals. It is possible to do, but you need to understand that it can put a great strain on the relationships that you have with your loved ones and in your life.

Eating

Make sure your loved ones are kept as much involved as you can. Although they might not be able to feed themselves, of course, they are still human. Assist them with maintaining as much independence as they possibly can have with their eating process.

Have them tell you what order they want to eat their food in. Then either cut up, liquefy or dice up all of their foods before they are eaten.

If an individual has problems swallowing, be sure they rest for 30 minutes at least before they eat. That will provide them with the energy they need for working the necessary muscles to be able to swallow their food. To help make their swallowing easier, alternate solids and liquids.

Using the Bathroom

Use a bedpan if there are any mobility issues when it comes to using the bathroom. There are two kinds of bedpans that can be used: the “fractured” bedpan and the classic bedpan. The fractured bedpan has been designed for patients with hip or back issues and who can’t use a bedpan if it is too high.

Be sure your loved one is able to roll on one side and the other. If they are unable to do this, ask if you can help them with that, and then roll the person over. Before you use the bedpan, place disposable towels done in the area where you are going to place the bedpan.

Push down on the bed and then slide the bedpan under the waste area. Once it is under the person, have them rock over onto the bedpan. Help prop them up some for added comfort. In addition, after they start to go, be sure there is some toilet paper available for them to clean themselves with.

After the person is done, the steps should be repeated in reverse. Your love one will roll back onto their side, and then you need to hold onto the bedpan so that it doesn’t move around too much. Use wipes or toilet paper to make sure that the waste area is sanitized if they are unable to do it on their own. Take away the bedpan and then pour the contents down the toilet.

Maintaining Mobility

If you have a bedridden loved one, be sure they are turned over every two hours. Bedsores might develop on their body is they aren’t turned. Once they are turned, be sure to prop up their backs using pillows.

If your loved one needs to be moved up in bed, you should try maneuvering the whole bed so that the foot of the bed is higher than the head of the better (it is easier to do this with an automatic bed). Ask the individual in bed to bend their knees and then push down toward the head of the bed.

If you love one is having a hard time pushing up in bed there are reduced friction sheets that are available to make this process easier.
Other activities like walking, bathing, grooming, and dressing required you to help you loved one and be there in person to help them. You will need to catch them when they fall.

Other ADL Tips

If you have any other ADL tips just call or contact us to let us know. Assisting Hands Houston is eager to assist with elder care in Houston and make sure all of our clients get the information and help they require for their loved ones.

6 Essential Medication Safety Tips For Seniors

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Assisting Seniors With Their Daily Medication Procedures

Over 700,000 visits to emergency rooms can be attributed to medication and drug errors every year. These errors commonly include accidental overdose or consumption but may be related to other reasons. The goal of Assisting Hands Houston is to reduce this error rate related hospital visits.

Follow these health and safety tips to prevent medication and drug errors:

1. List It

Make a list of all the medication that is currently being taken by yourself or a loved one. Present this list to a healthcare provider at every visit or appointment. It will help them determine your current medical conditions, eliminate the need to prescribe more medication of the same type and prevent drug interactions.

2. Storage Instructions

Read the storage instructions on the medication or ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Most medications should be stored in a cool dry place but some may need to refrigerated or have additional storage instructions. Keep in mind that moisture and heat could change the chemistry of a drug affecting its efficacy or make it hazardous to your health. It is essential to keep all medication out of reach of children and pets and preferable to lock them away safely.

3. A Weekly Medicine Box

A medicine box provides separate compartments that medications can be placed in for each day of the week. Using a medication box greatly reduces the risk of drug errors occurring. It also simplifies the delivery process for caregivers as well as allows them to determine the safety of each medication taken within the whole.

Should there be any concern whether a dosage has been missed or taken twice, it is a simple matter of checking which compartment is still full? If an error has occurred, the dosage will need to be adjusted according to the instructions or advice from a healthcare provider.

4. Dosage Instructions

Assisting Hands Houston | In Home Care Services in Houston TexasNever stop taking a medication just because you feel you or your loved one no longer needs it. Also never adjust the dosage because you think the drug may be ineffective or the side effects are too severe. Always consult with a healthcare professional to voice your concerns and ask them to adjust your dosage if necessary.

Keep in mind that dosages are carefully calculated to meet the specific treatment requirements of different health conditions as well as the individual patient. Adjusting your medication could have severe consequences such as ending up in the hospital.

5. Knowledge Is Power

Ask your health care professional pertinent questions regarding the medication that they prescribe like what is for, how it works and how long you can expect to take it. If you are unsure about anything, get a second opinion.

Create a dialogue with your primary healthcare provider so that they can better understand your needs and concerns and to provide you with a better understanding of your health conditions and treatment plan.

6. More Hints And Tips

If you have any additional drug and medication health and safety tips, please feel free to call or contact Assisting Hands Houston and help us reduce the rate of errors and related hospital visits. Should you simply require more information regarding our services, our staff will be happy to assist.

Assisting Hands Helps You Understand Differences Between Nursing Homes and Assisted Living

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Understanding The Differences In Assisted Living Or A Nursing Home

Assisting Hands Houston | Nursing Homes in Houston TexasThere is a common misconception that both assisted living and a nursing home are the same. Even though both of them offer homes for seniors, the purposes are very different. The assisted living facilities will help seniors work on maintaining an independent lifestyle while providing basic aid. Nursing homes in Houston are there to help people that are in need of constant and active medical supervision.

Both of these avenues have their merit, however, you need to understand the differences before you sign a contract with either one. Without the right information, you could be hurting a loved one without even realizing it.

Extracurricular Activities

Nursing Home – The individual has to be signed out by a family member or close friend before being able to leave the home. Any of the interactions will also be highly regimented.

Assisted Living – The individual will be free to leave as they please and there are a number of social activities that are put together with the enjoyment of the residents in mind.

Health Care

Nursing Home – There is constant medical monitoring, as the function of a nursing home is to provide round the clock medical care to senior residents that need it. While the social activities for your loved one may be sparse, they will be getting extensive medical care. If your loved one is not able to go to the bathroom on their home, an attendant from the nursing home will be there to assist.

Assisted Living – You will find medical monitoring along with amenities. The assisted living will offer care, yet there will not be round the clock attention. The residents are expected to be much more independent and take care of basic needs themselves, including using the bathroom.

Living Space

Nursing Home – The living space is sparse, yet functional. There are decorations allowed, but the seniors might have to clear their personal items with the staff prior to putting them out.

Assisted Living – There are a lot of living space selections, including studio apartments, one bedroom apartments, and some locations may have cottages that your loved one can move into. Assisted living will also engage residents in various activities and take them off to run errands or to local events.

Personal Care

Nursing Home – There is frequent attention, including eating and dressing, bathing and more. The nursing homes are crafted with custodial care and needs in mind. Independence is never expected.

Assisted Living – You will find independent options when you deal with activities each day, including cooking, eating, bathing, dressing, using the bathroom and more.

Privacy

Nursing Home – Individuals are closed watched by the staff and there are either private or shared spaces. There will be a higher chance of sharing a room with someone else in a nursing home. This is something that may be ideal for someone who needs special medical supervision.

Assisted Living – This is designed with privacy in mind, as the rooms are made for seniors who are able to get around while needing minimal aid. The living space will also be private unless it is otherwise noted.

Cost

Nursing Home – Being that this is a healthcare facility, there are many kinds of insurances and services that can help cover the cost.

Assisted Living – Long term insurance may cover many of the assisted living spaces. You could encounter some billing issues, but there will be a facility advisor that will be able to work with you.

If you are looking at comparing the costs of nursing homes in Houston, you will find assisted living calculators available online.

At Assisting Hands Houston we pride ourselves on bringing our clients and your loved ones with the need-to-know information you are searching for. Visit our blog for more information. We invite you to call or contact us to get in touch with one of our representatives if you have any unanswered questions!