Adjust Expectations

Many families have some firmly entrenched holiday traditions. When a family member is in hospice care, it’s incredibly difficult for families to continue with those traditions. Managing expectations around what is possible and what isn’t during this time is really important because it helps everyone in the family get on the same page.

Consider Comfort

Hospice care is all about ensuring that the patient is as comfortable as possible. During the holiday season, comfort is even more important. Decorating with familiar items might be important, for instance. It can also help to combine those familiar decorations and events with soothing elements, like softer lighting.

Prioritize Meaningful Events

During the holidays, everyone is spread a little thinner than usual. That means it might be better to focus on quality rather than quantity. Smaller, more relaxed gatherings can help to allow everyone to spend time with the person who is near the end of life in a more meaningful way. It’s all about making those moments special and less intimidating.

Keep Patients Involved

When patients who are near death can remain involved in these types of decisions, it’s important to involve them in the planning while not overwhelming them. They might have preferences on decorations, activities, or ways to help family members celebrate more simply. Keeping patients involved helps them to feel connected and included, especially at this difficult time.

Stay Flexible

It’s important to stay flexible during the holidays no matter what else is going on. But when a beloved family member is in hospice care, it’s even more urgent to keep flexibility in mind. Plans often need to be adjusted on short notice based on everything from energy levels to changing health needs.

Capture Memories

Some parts of the holiday celebration may not be something that hospice patients can attend themselves. It’s a good idea to capture memories, take pictures, shoot videos, and more, all to share with the patient later. It’s also important to capture memories with the person who is near death so that families have those memories at future celebrations to share with everyone.

Practice Gratitude

The holidays are about gratitude and celebrating moments of reflection. It can be so difficult to feel gratitude when a beloved family member is dying, but it’s important to find those moments of gratitude and embrace them. This can help with managing feelings as a family member’s health continues to worsen.

Celebrating the holidays when a family member needs the help of hospice care is a time when families need to plan thoughtfully. Hospice can help to implement plans that allow families to celebrate the joyful aspects of the season while also respectfully memorializing the family member they’re losing.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Hospice Care Services in Woodbury NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Tips for Celebrating the Holidays While a Loved On Is in Hospice Care appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Adopting a Positive Outlook

Although change can be challenging, it can go more smoothly if seniors have an optimistic outlook. Seniors should be encouraged to concentrate on the facets of life they have control over and search for the silver lining in certain circumstances. Even better? Having a positive mindset can lower stress and enhance general well-being. Loved ones can work with seniors to find more positivity throughout the day and even encourage them to list things they’re thankful for in a journal.

Keep Moving

Finding oneself in a negative mood often leads to feeling tired and not wanting to do anything. Seniors can counteract this with in-home care by their side, encouraging them to get up and keep moving. Plus, maintaining independence is directly related to strength and mobility, which they can increase with consistent physical activity. Additionally, physical activity is through to improve mental wellness, which is critical during times of change.

Maintain Social Contacts

Maintaining social relationships is essential for mental well-being and can provide a support network throughout periods of transition. Seniors who participate in social activities, whether through friends, family, or neighborhood groups, often report feeling less alone and more involved in life. Additionally, socialization is easier than ever thanks to technology. For seniors who aren’t comfortable with technology, in-home care and loved ones can slowly introduce them to their options while also making sure they remain safe while using them.

Think Outside the Box

Another way to break out of a negative rut is to try something new. For seniors, adopting new interests and abilities can be a very effective strategy for adjusting to change, trying something new is a great way to break out of a negative rut. In-home care can help seniors research activities to try either virtually or in person.

Follow a Schedule

During times of transition, routines offer structure and a sense of normalcy, which can be uplifting. Additionally, seniors who follow a daily schedule feel less apprehensive because they can retain their independence and sense of control over their lives.

Practice Relaxation and Mindfulness

Big life changes are frequently accompanied by stress and worry. Seniors can control their stress and maintain composure despite the changes by using mindfulness and relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, or meditation. Loved ones can help them explore apps and online resources that teach them how to do these exercises. Additionally, seniors can gain mindfulness and physical activity by incorporating yoga or Tai Chi into their day.

Find a Sense of Purpose

Being able to adjust to change requires having a purpose. Engaging in meaningful activities such as volunteering, mentoring, or hobbies provides seniors with something to look forward to daily.

Seniors are better equipped to welcome change when they can face things with an optimistic outlook. Both in-home care and loved ones can encourage them to try some of the tips above to see which help them stick to positivity rather than the negative side of things.

Sources: https://www.alternativesforseniors.com/senior-resources/articles/adapt-to-change/
https://friendshipcenters.org/aging-gracefully-the-power-of-positive-thinking/
https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ca/pleasanton/resources/blogs/2024-01-25/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring In-Home Care Services in Mullica Hill NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Tips and Tricks to Help Seniors Adapt to Life’s Changes appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

With companion care at home, your senior mom or dad gets regular visits from a care provider that can share meals with them, play card games or board games with them, and do activities with them. Providing social interaction and companionship through companion care at home can help your senior parent stay healthy at home.

The health risks associated with loneliness can be serious. Seniors who are lonely have an increased risk for a lot of serious health conditions including heart attacks and strokes.

Some of the ways that loneliness affects seniors living at home are:

Mental Health Decline

Loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Seniors who feel isolated are more likely to experience persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. If your senior parent is showing some of the symptoms of depression or anxiety they may need companion care at home.

Cognitive Decline

Loneliness is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Social isolation can accelerate memory loss and other cognitive impairments. If your senior parent is worried about their cognitive health, or if you are worried about their cognitive health, companion care at home is a good way to prevent cognitive decline.

Physical Health Problems

Chronic loneliness can contribute to physical health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system, making seniors more vulnerable to illnesses. Seniors who already have high blood pressure or heart disease should have companion care at home to lower their risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Poor Nutrition

Seniors living alone and feeling lonely may have less motivation to prepare nutritious meals, leading to poor eating habits and malnutrition. They might skip meals or rely on convenience foods that lack essential nutrients.
Companion care at home providers can help your senior parent cook their favorite meals and make their favorite snacks. They can also share meals and snacks with them to encourage them to eat healthier foods.

Decreased Mobility

Loneliness often leads to reduced physical activity. Without social encouragement or companionship, seniors might be less inclined to engage in exercise or even simple activities like walking around the yard. Social companionship can make seniors much more likely to want to engage in physical activity.

Sleep Disturbances

Loneliness can negatively impact sleep quality. Seniors who feel lonely may experience insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and other related health issues.

Increased Risk of Mortality

Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to higher mortality rates among seniors. The combination of mental health issues, physical health problems, and lack of support can significantly increase the risk of premature death.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Companion Care at Home Services in Woodbury NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post How Loneliness Hurts Seniors appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Regular Dental Care

Getting regular dental cleanings can also help seniors avoid dental problems and gum disease. If your senior parent neglects their teeth getting regular dental cleanings is a great way to help them manage their oral health. But, many seniors hate going to the dentist and put it off if they can. These tips can make getting professional dental care easier for seniors:

Comfortable Transportation

Arrange for reliable and comfortable transportation to and from the dental office. If your senior parent doesn’t drive any longer or they don’t want to go alone home care can help. A personal care at home provider can drive your senior parent to the dentist and wait for them at the appointment.

Pre-Visit Communication

Discuss any concerns, health issues, or specific needs with the dentist or dental office staff before the appointment. This can include mobility issues, medications, or anxiety about the visit. If the staff knows ahead of time that dental visits cause anxiety for your senior mom or dad they will take steps from the start to reassure your mom or dad and communicate everything they do to make them comfortable.

Schedule Appointments Early

Schedule appointments for dental cleanings early in the morning. Seniors usually are the most alert and focused in the morning. It’s also better for seniors to go out early in the day if the appointment is in the spring or the summer so that they don’t get too warm.

Dental offices these days are built for comfort. Choose a dentist’s office that has soft cushioned chairs, neck pillows, and cozy blankets to make your senior parent feel more comfortable during the visit.

Medication and Pain Management

Talk to the dentist about pain management options, including local anesthesia or sedation, if necessary. Bring a list of current medications to avoid any adverse interactions. Sedation dentistry is a good option for some seniors who are terrified of getting dental work done.

Accessibility

If your mom or dad has mobility issues, choose a dental office that is accessible and has features such as ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-friendly facilities. Staff assistance for getting in and out of the dental chair can also be helpful.

Take Breaks During Treatment

Discuss with the dentist the possibility of taking short breaks during longer procedures to prevent fatigue and discomfort. Ask your mom or dad if they would like to take a break during the treatment too.

Use of Technology

Consider dental offices that use advanced technologies such as digital X-rays, which are quicker and more comfortable, or laser treatments, which can be less invasive. Modern technology can make a lot of dental procedures more comfortable, especially for seniors.

Aftercare Instructions

Make sure clear, written aftercare instructions are provided. This is especially important if your senior parent has memory issues or cognitive impairments. Follow-up calls or check-ins from the dental office can also be beneficial.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Personal Care at Home Services in Evesham Township NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post How To Make Dental Care Easier For Seniors appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Understanding Changes in Sleep Patterns

A number of elements play a role in how seniors’ sleep patterns change, including the following:

Changes in the Circadian Rhythm: The circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal clock, controls the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. This rhythm may change with age, resulting in earlier morning wake-up times and earlier evening drowsiness.

Health Issues: Chronic illnesses like arthritis, heart disease, or respiratory disorders are more common in seniors and can cause sleep disturbances. Furthermore, as people age, disorders like restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea become more common, which negatively impact the quality of their sleep.

Medication: Many seniors take medications for a range of health conditions, some of which can have side effects that make it difficult to fall asleep. Additionally, some medications have the potential to induce sleep disturbances, insomnia, or daytime sleepiness.

Coping Mechanisms for Better Sleep

Even though seniors frequently experience changes in their sleep patterns, there are some tactics they can use to enhance the quality of their sleep and their general well-being.

Home care can help them explore the following coping techniques to see what works best for them:

Create a Regular Sleep Schedule: This one seems obvious, but by keeping a regular sleep schedule, seniors can support the body’s innate circadian rhythm. To encourage better sleep habits, seniors should try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekends.

Establish a Calm Bedtime Routine: Before going to bed, doing soothing activities can help the body recognize when it’s time to wind down. Seniors who want to relax before bed may include things like reading, light stretching, or relaxing music in their routine.

Establish a Cozy Sleep Environment: It’s important to ensure the bedroom is quiet, dark, and cool so that seniors can sleep well. Loved ones and seniors can explore the best mattress and pillow options as well as ensure the bedding is conducive to better sleep. Also, seniors might want to use a sleep app or have a fan in the room to create white noise.

Limit Stimulants and Electronics: Because alcohol and caffeine can disrupt sleep, seniors should steer clear of using them right before bed. Also, since smartphones and tablets emit blue light, using them right before bed can interfere with the body’s normal sleep-wake cycle.

Speak with a Medical Professional: Seniors should speak with their healthcare provider if their sleep issues don’t improve after attempting these solutions. A medical professional can assess underlying medical issues, go over prescriptions, and, if necessary, suggest additional interventions like cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or sleep studies.

Although altered sleep patterns are a typical part of aging, seniors’ quality of life need not suffer as a result. Seniors can enhance their general well-being and quality of sleep by understanding what things can lead to these changes and putting useful coping mechanisms into practice. With home care and loved ones by their side, seniors can sleep soundly despite changes to their sleeping patterns.

Sources: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/Pages/conditions
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/how-to-sleep-well-as-you-age.htm
https://familydoctor.org/https-familydoctor-org-sleep-changes-in-older-adults/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Washington Township NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Coping With Changing Sleep Patterns in Seniors appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Senior home care can help your loved one thrive, limit stress, and boost their quality of life while aging at home. However, on top of those amazing benefits, a senior should focus on finding healthy coping strategies.

Here are some to consider.

Move Around As Much As Possible

Many seniors are not able to move around as much as they used to but the truth is if a senior stays mobile it will help them age in place. This can be a great way to reduce stress and movement is a wonderful way to cope with daily anxieties too. It is a way to stay healthy, burn off energy, and get refocused to take on the day. Senior home care will encourage a senior to stay as mobile as possible.

Find New Hobbies

A senior should be participating in hobbies that bring them joy. Finding something to take their mind off of the current stressor will be one of the best ways to cope. It is also a good way to get connected. They may be able to find a group that does the same hobby and this will help them make connections and get out of the house to do something they enjoy. If they need help with transportation this is something that senior home care can also help with.

Practice Positive Thinking

When life becomes hard it can be easy to get stuck in a negative mindset. Your loved one should practice the power of positive thinking because it will help change their overall mindset. When your problems look less like problems and more like a challenge or learning lesson it can shift someone’s entire personality and help them solve problems rather than sink in negativity.

Focus On Yourself

There are so many things that you will not be able to control while you get older but there are things that you can control. Your loved one can focus on their routine, living in their home, managing their health and routine. These are ways they can control what they love and it can make them feel better. Keep in mind that even with senior home care your loved one will still be in charge.

Find the Right Routine

Senior home care can help your loved one find and create a routine that helps them thrive as they age. This can be a healthy coping strategy when life is stressful because it gives them something to look forward to and there won’t be any bad surprises.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Home Care Services in Mullica Hill NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Healthy Coping Strategies Your Senior Loved One Can Use to Deal With Life appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Continue reading to learn strategies to help seniors with decluttering.

Recognizing the Emotional Effect That Decluttering Has on Seniors

Recognizing the mental burden that comes with decluttering and reorganizing is essential before moving on to the physical components of organizing. Seniors may develop a strong emotional bond with their possessions, as each one holds special memories and meaning. Sifting through personal stuff can trigger a whirlwind of emotions, right? You’re suddenly swimming in nostalgia or grappling with grief, and there’s this looming fear about saying goodbye to them. It’s more than just items; it’s pieces of you. However, with home care assistance, they gain a valuable ally who can not only assist them with the process but also listen as they talk about the stories attached to these items.

Be Empathic in Your Approach

It’s crucial to approach helping seniors organize their homes with care and compassion. As they tell their stories about their possessions, loved ones should acknowledge and affirm their feelings. It’s also important to recognize that giving up some things could be tough for them, but reassure them that it’s acceptable to take their time. With home care assistance in place and loved ones offering a supporting and caring hand, the process can go much smoother.

Begin Small

Any person, especially a senior, may find decluttering and trying to organize years of belongings challenging. For this reason, loved ones need to be patient and encourage seniors to start small, possibly concentrating on one part of a room at a time. Breaking the process down into bite-sized, manageable chunks can make it feel less daunting.

Arrange and Set Priorities

Loved ones should also encourage seniors to divide their belongings into three categories as they go through them: keep, donate/sell, and trash. While it’s acceptable to keep objects that have a great deal of sentimental value, with home care assistance, seniors can be encouraged to think about whether they need or like particular items.

Keep Memories Alive

Loved ones can look into other methods to retain memories of objects that are emotive but might not be useful. This could involve snapping pictures of meaningful items or making digital albums so that seniors can look back on special occasions without having to store everything on hand.

Establish a Helpful Environment

This process isn’t only hard for seniors; it’s hard for loved ones as well. With home care by their side, a safe atmosphere can be established that allows for shared feelings and open communication.

Helping elders tidy up isn’t just about scrubbing and sorting. It’s an emotional journey, a trip down memory lane packed with nostalgia, sentiments, and life experiences that they’ve gathered over the years. With a touch of kindness, patience, and understanding from home care workers and family members, seniors can be encouraged to clear their spaces without losing the treasured memories that matter most.

Sources: https://balancethroughsimplicity.com/decluttering-tips-seniors/
https://seniorsbulletin.ca/decluttering-for-seniors/
https://designertrapped.com/emotions-of-decluttering-your-home/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care Assistance Services in Turnersville NJ, please contact the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post A Guide to Helping Seniors Organize Spaces While Also Managing Emotions appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

If your mom or dad can do the bulk of the things around the house, they may have no problem taking care of an independent car. On the other hand, if they are relying on you and senior home care to do most of the work, caring for an animal may be the wrong choice.

Once you’ve decided if your loved one can have a cat you’ll want to know why they make the best options for your loved one!

Cats Provide Companionship

Believe it or not, being a senior can get lonely. They may not go out as much as they used to or they may only see senior home care regularly. Either way, they will want a furry little friend to keep them company. By having something they see every day that relies on them it can provide a sense of comfort. These small creatures also love to snuggle which can greatly improve a senior’s mood. Kitty snuggles are the absolute best!

Older Pets Need Homes

Often, when people think about getting a new cat they think about baby kittens. But, if your senior wants a cat they should consider adopting an older one. Older cats tend to need less when it comes to care but they still provide that companionship your loved one is looking for. Older cats have all of the same benefits as younger cats but they may be easier to manage for your elderly loved one.

Cats Can Provide Responsibility

Having some form of responsibility and purpose is crucial. You may not know it but having a cat, something that depends on your senior loved one for food, shelter, and affection can change a cat’s life and a senior’s life. It can make your seniors happier when they know they have something at home that needs them. Everyone needs that sense of purpose and a cat may do just that.

They Are a Stress Relief

It might be silly to think of a cat being a stress relief, but it’s true. When your senior loved one is feeling down in the dumps or stressed out, picking up their tiny little friend can help them calm down. Sitting down to pet a cat can help them relax together and take their mind off of whatever is bothering them. Owning a cat means your senior has something in their life that will always provide them with unconditional love which is great for relieving stress.

Cats Live a Long Time

Adopting a kitten is a long commitment but your senior will likely live for several more years. This allows your loved one to form a close bond with a beautiful animal. If you’re worried about age, encourage your loved one to adopt an older cat.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Home Care Services in Cherry Hill NJ, please get in touch with the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Owning Cats as a Senior appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Here are some things to consider when thinking about nutrition for your loved one who is at the end of their life.

Nutrition Will Help With Dehydration

When seniors stop drinking it can lead to severe dehydration and this can become super uncomfortable. 24-hour home care can ensure a senior is drinking enough water throughout the day or even sucking on ice cubes. This will help prevent any discomfort from dry mouth or dehydration. They may also help make snacks that have tons of hydration, like cucumbers and hummus or other vegetables like carrots.

24-Hour Home Care Will Help Navigate Religious or Ethical Nutrition Problems

Not all seniors can eat everything they want. This could be because of moral stances or even religious beliefs. If your senior needs help reading labels, and ingredients, or keeping away from certain foods, this is something you can write out and give to their caregiver. Once they understand a senior’s religious beliefs they can then help meal prep and adhere to any guidelines a senior has. Even with help from a caregiver, your senior is a free and independent person who is allowed to live the rest of their life any way they want to.

Caregivers Will Ensure Your Senior is Comfortable

When your loved one is always hungry, and they can’t cook for themselves, it can lead to discomfort and even agitation. It’s okay to need help with meal prep, and it is something that 24-hour home care can help with when needed. They are professionals who will learn what your loved one wants to eat during their final stages of life and help ensure they get their meals on time, sticking to a routine. Having a routine for meals and food is a good way to ensure a senior is always comfortable.

They Can Help Make Decisions

When your loved one is near the end, they may not feel as hungry as they used to. However, it is still important to ensure your loved one is eating. When you have to do this, it may feel like you are forcing your loved one, and this can be a challenging decision. So, instead, have professional help during this time. They will make it easier for your loved one to stick to a routine and take the stress away from you.

24-Hour Home Care Will Help Through All Stages

No matter what your senior is capable of, a caregiver can help through all stages. They will help prepare a meal, feed a senior, and clean up afterward. The amount of help a senior will need will depend on how independent they are and what they want help from a caregiver. Every person is different, and every case will vary.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring 24-Hour Home Care Services in Evesham Township NJ, please get in touch with the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Value of Nutrition for the Dying appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..

Here are some ways to help your loved one think more positively while aging in place.

Start The Day Off Right

One of the best things you or senior home care can do is read them a positive quote or affirmation in the mornings. This is a good way to start the day and a good routine or habit. It doesn’t necessarily “trick” your loved one into thinking positively, but if they start the day with happiness, that positivity can come much more naturally when challenges arise. If your loved one is spiritual, find happy quotes from the bible; if they are not, find a good quote online to read to your loved one and then ask their thoughts. If your loved one is into journaling, this can be something to write about and reflect on!

Try Something New

Your loved one may have been hesitant to try new things while aging in place, and for good reason. Maybe they’re scared of driving, don’t know how to get places, or feel too old. Senior home care can help your loved one stay positive by taking them to try something new. Your senior mom or dad may be more likely to try something new when they know they can rely on senior home care for transportation and help when they need it. Trying something new can be fun and boost their mood, which will help them remain positive during all the life changes they will surely experience while they age in place.

Help Them Find a Sense Of Purpose

A great thing senior home care can help your loved one with is finding a sense of purpose. Negative thinking can follow a senior when they don’t know what they provide or feel like they have no purpose. So, one of the best things you can help your loved one with is finding that sense of purpose. Maybe it’s volunteering one day a week, teaching their grandkids something new, or building something for a family member. Given the right opportunity, they have a fountain of knowledge running through them and can share it with others.

They Should Take a Break From Screens

TVs, tablets, and phones have tons of activities on them, and that is a great way to fill up the day. However, social media can be toxic and lead to negative thoughts. Maybe they see other seniors living a better life, or they may start comparing themselves to others. This is a negative thing. If your loved one is spending a lot of time online, it’s time to encourage them to take a break for a couple of days!

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Senior Home Care Services in Turnersville NJ, please get in touch with the caring staff at Attentive Care Inc. at 1-800-493-5660.

The post Trick Your Senior Into Thinking Positively appeared first on Attentive Care, Inc..