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Staying In Touch With Technology While Caregiving in Houston

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Technologies Houston Caregiver Agencies Are Using

There are a number of studies that show socializing with family and friends can have a positive impact on the health and longevity of seniors. One study performed in 2012 discovered that staying socially engaged was just as important as other healthy living habits when it came to healthy aging. The study involved 100 centenarians and was conducted by UnitedHealthcare.

However, some people don’t like to meet others in person. Thankfully, technology offers a number of solutions. Below are different ways Houston caregiver agencies are staying in touch with technology.

Video Chat/Social Media

Seniors can use social media to stay connected. Sharing thoughts and comments via Twitter and Facebook is a trend that is continuing to grow in the senior community. This is something that should be encouraged.

It’s a good idea to set up a Nucleus intercom system. It’s easy to use and it is a device that is senior-friendly. This device lets people video chat with anyone in the family, if they have their own device or if they have the app. All it takes is pressing one button for an older adult to get in touch with family.

Use Video Games

Using videos games can help seniors keep both their body and mind active. Video games are fun too. This is one of the reasons seniors should play them.

Furthermore, playing video games may improve vision. In one study, it showed that seniors with cataracts reported an improvement in their eyesight after they’ve played Call of Duty and other first-person shooting games. The seniors’ eyes strengthen because of rapid eye movement and because the focus was required. A Houston caregiver should add games to their clients weekly or daily routine.

Use Apps For Tracking Medication

A key aspect of caregiving is allowing seniors to live independently, and part of maintaining independence is taking medications when they’re supposed to be taken. Caregivers should consider using an app that can help seniors track medications. Seniors will love using such an app.

However, finding the right app isn’t that easy. This is because there are so many other there. The good news is this task doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Over 270 medication tracking apps were looked at by the University of Sydney. They narrow down their list.

Medisafe Pill Reminder & Medication Tracker made the list. So did Alar Meds. The other two that made it to the top included MedicineList+ and My Heart My Life.

Are you a Houston caregiver and are you thinking of using technology because if you are, then consider some of the technology discussed above. Maybe you’re already using technology. If you are, then what are you using and what do you recommend using because we would love to know more about them.

For more insight, visit our blog. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or contact us today!

Letting Your Grandparents Know How Much They Mean To You

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How You Can Honor Your Grandparents!

Our great nation has evolved to the country we love today thanks to millions of older Americans who have made great sacrifices through the decades. Unfortunately, younger people don’t always have the time or the inclination to show that we appreciate all that older generations have done for us.

Every September, we’re given an opportunity to show that we care by taking part in Grandparents’ Day! This year, Grandparents’ Day fell on a Sunday on September 10th. If you had not already made plans, these are some of the activities that you can share with your grandparents or other seniors who may not have immediate family members.

Activities To Share With Grandparents

  • Plant a tree together: Trees have long been seen as symbols of longevity, life, and legacy. What better way to honor your relationship with a grandparent than to plant a tree together? As the tree matures from a sapling, it becomes a lasting testament to the love you share. Not to mention, trees can benefit people for generations to come!
  • Help clean up the community together: If your community has a regular clean up day you can participate in, sign up with a grandparent and help keep the community free of trash and debris. If no such a day exists, you can still work together on a designated day to give nature a helping hand and to collect trash while bonding.
  • Find somewhere to volunteer together: Volunteering is not only great for senior mental health, but it can bridge the gap between different generations. Find a place where you and a grandparent can volunteer together such as a food pantry, church, hospital or an animal shelter.
  • Grab lunch with a grandparent: Many restaurants and cafes participate in Grandparents’ Day and show their appreciation of older generations by offering free coffee or food. Join your loved ones and invite your grandparents to such a restaurant or cafe to enjoy a meal together. It’s a great way to support a local business and show your love.

Assisting Hands Houston | Elder Caregivers in Houston TXHelp Your Grandparents Get The Care They Need!

Caring for your grandparents shouldn’t just be on Grandparents’ Day but every day of the year. If your grandparent needs help, consider talking about elder caregiving in Houston. Assisting Hands Houston is a community of seniors where every day is a chance to share the knowledge of generations with younger people and to enjoy a variety of exciting activities. Our community is wholly based on a personal approach where staff and family members regularly interact to give the care that seniors need.

It’s important for younger generations to learn from older generations. Assisting Hands Houston aids in providing seniors and young people the ability to interact in different social settings such as classrooms and through a multitude of activities. Regular school visits are scheduled where children and seniors can share their life experiences.

Get Educated!

Whether a loved one needs care or you’d like to volunteer, you can learn more about Assisting Hands Houston by calling us today at 281-540-7400 or by contacting us here. Our dedicated staff members can help answer all of your questions and provide you with volunteer opportunities.

Paying Attention To These Important Cancer Screenings For Your Loved Ones

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Understanding The Essential Cancer Screenings For Older Adults

We live in an era where we have the ability to take control of our own health and stay healthy.

The American Cancer Society suggests that all individuals should follow the recommendations that they have listed for essential cancer screenings.

This is an important aspect for older individuals as they are more likely to be diagnosed with some form of cancer than other areas of the population.

Seniors and their caregivers should know the various screenings that are available and when they should be scheduled.

Assisting Hands Houston | Cancer Screening For EldersCancer Screenings For Older Adults

Considering that Stand Up to Cancer Day is scheduled for September 9, the following is a list of various screenings that you or a loved one should keep in mind.

Lung Cancer Testing

If you are an active smoker or have quit in the past 15 years, it is recommended that you schedule a lung cancer screening. This type of screening features a low-dose CT scan which will look for early signs of lung cancer. It is essential that you discuss any risks, questions, and benefits with your health care physician or provider.

Colon Cancer Testing

Anyone of the age of 50 should have a colon cancer screening scheduled. This type of screening is covered by Medicare as it specifically searches for pre-cancerous polyps. If these polyps are found early enough, they can be removed before they become cancerous.

There are several different types of cancer screenings that are covered under Medicare depending upon risk factor and the date of the last testing. In fact, the American Cancer Society offers an extensive breakdown of Medicare coverage in these screenings.

Prostate Cancer Testing For Men

A prostate screening is essential but all seniors should talk to their physician about the many benefits and possible risks associated. When deciding upon a screening it is essential to consider overall health and not just age.

Breast Cancer Testing For Women

Mammograms are one of the most important aspects of screening for breast cancer in women. It is recommended to schedule a screening every two years. Women who are at a much higher risk should have one scheduled yearly.

If you are unsure of whether you are at a higher risk for breast cancer, it is best to discuss the situation with a health care provider. Age and family history will play a role in the risk factor.

As women age, the risk of cancer will increase. Some physicians will recommend other tests for those who are at a higher risk.

Cervical Cancer Testing For Women

Cervical cancer testing is essential for a healthy life for women, only if you have not been tested in the past ten years.

Are you still looking for more information about the best types of screenings for various ages?

The American Cancer Society has an excellent timeline that features the recommended ages for various cancer screenings.

Assisting Hands of Houston wants to help you make the best decisions for your life.

Regular cancer screenings are just a small part of a healthy lifestyle. The choices you make with your daily life matter as well. It is essential to consider the choices you make with diets, exercise, and habits, as they affect you in many ways.

One of the best ways to stay up to date on the latest research about aging and elder care in Houston Texas is to read the Assisting Hands Houston Blog. We feature many topics that older adults are interested in reading about including fitness, health, and nutrition.

Or we invite you to call us today or contact us here!

Tips For The Family Caregiver in Houston

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A Guide For Keeping Your Marriage Strong

Many baby boomers are facing a decision about caregiving for their elderly parents or other relatives. This is not an easy decision and if a person decides to take on the role of primary caregiver, it can be quite stressful. This stress will often migrate into the caregiver’s marriage and cause problems. Providing full-time caregiving is extremely difficult and usually results in the caregiver trying to work in responsibilities involving caregiving, family, and marriage. This tightly packed and incredibly organized schedule typically results in very little time for the caregiver themselves. They are tired, stressed, and often feeling frustrated.

Assisting Hands Houston | Houston Caregiver ServicesPrimary caregivers also face another challenge

taking care of their own health. When a person becomes a full-time caregiver it often results in the caregiver’s health failing before the health of person they’re caring for. It can also become financially difficult when someone becomes a primary caregiver. They often must give up their job or at least reduce their hours which results in a loss of income. When all of these challenges are combined, it can wreak havoc on a marriage.

Couples can survive the trials and tribulations of being a primary caregiver, but it takes work. There are some steps a couple can take to keep their marriage strong. If both partners are committed, they can make it through and come out stronger on the other side.

1. Own It

Both the caregiver and the spouse must acknowledge that the caregiving is impacting their relationship. Providing care for someone else is a hard job and at the end of the day, the caregiver probably doesn’t want to clean house or do the grocery shopping. They are tired and perhaps a bit short-tempered. Both partners must realize there are issues and work together to help each other out

2. Prioritize Your Spouse

Both partners must do this, but the caregiver may need to work hard at prioritizing their spouse when they are providing care for another person all day long. It is important that both partners make time to connect, even if it’s just a short chat while making dinner. It helps to plan something special every once in a while so both partners remember how important they are to each other.

3. Ask For Help

Family caregiving should be just that – family. When the primary caregiver needs a break, they should never hesitate to ask for help. If they don’t recognize when they need time away, it could end badly for both the caregiver and the one they are caring for. It is only human to need time for oneself, so ask family and friends to step in occasionally.

If there are no family or friends nearby, consider hiring a professional caregiver, if only for a day or a few hours. These home care companions can take your loved one to their doctor’s appointment or shopping or to the hair salon. Meanwhile, the caregiver can get a much-needed break or take care of a few personal errands.

4. Use Available Resources

There are usually resources available within the community to help family caregivers. The local Area Agency on Aging will have specialists who can provide help and advice. There may also be support groups where primary caregivers can meet others who are facing the same challenges.

5. Take Time For Yourselves

This is a big one. All marriages need recharging at times, so plan some time for yourselves. If you can’t get away, plan a “stay-cation” and try a new vineyard or go to a show. Spend this time together talking and strengthening your marriage bonds.

Many communities offer respite programs where your loved one can do a short-term stay at a local long-term care facility or senior retirement community. This is a great way to ensure your relative or friend is safe while you and your spouse get some much-needed time alone.

5. Know When To Stop

When the care giving is causing too many problems in the marriage, take a step back and admit you need help. Assisting Hands Houston is here to provide you assistance. Our caregiver in Houston specialists will work with you to determine if a change is needed for the health of everyone concerned. Give us a call or contact us today to talk about your options.

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.