Author: Aging Wisdom
This year the holidays and holiday gatherings will look a bit different for most of us, given the pandemic. Experts advise us to stay home and celebrate only with those in our household.
In our experience as Aging Life Care Professionals, the holidays are typically when families have an opportunity to spend more time together and may notice changes in an older loved one that are worrisome. This year, since many of us will gather virtually, you may still notice changes, though you may want to dismiss them. If you see uncharacteristic behavior, and lifestyle changes and routines, please don’t ignore them. …
“Home” for the Holidays? Signs Your Older Loved Ones May Need HelpRead More »
Judy had an emergency hip replacement after a fall. She needs to be discharged tomorrow to a skilled nursing facility. She needs several weeks of intensive physical therapy to be able to walk again. Then she may need to live in assisted living.
The discharge planner has a list of options. Judy and her daughter, who lives an hour away, don’t know how to make a wise choice.
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As we age, we find ourselves requiring different types of help. Medical needs are typically covered by Medicare. But many of us come to need assistance that is nonmedical in nature (e.g., help bathing or dressing). We have to be prepared to pay for this kind of assistance out of pocket, on our own. If you served in the armed forces, Uncle Sam may have resources to help.
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Frank knows they need help at home. His wife’s dementia is getting worse, and he has his own health problems. She can’t be left alone anymore.
Doing all the cooking and cleaning, and now helping with bathing … it’s just too much.
Frank needs to take breaks. But a Google search reveals a dizzying array of home care providers. How to choose?
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How you pay for care at home depends on whether the service is by medically trained staff or by nonmedical caregivers. Also, what you can mix and match in terms of community programs and help from friends and family.
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Judy fell and broke her hip. She calls 911. She lacks a medication list. As a result, the hospital team is unaware of her chronic conditions. Her daughter lives far away and doesn’t know if she should fly in.
Accidents by their very nature are unplanned. That doesn’t mean you need to be unprepared for a fall or a serious incident (e.g., a heart attack or stroke).
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Much as we would like to imagine an elderhood free from troubles, the truth is, we are all likely to need help eventually. And on several levels. …
Imagine your life as a movie. If you are the director, an Aging Life Care Professional is your production manager. …
While “aging in place” has its benefits, such individualized care can be expensive. Additionally, it can be isolating. Senior housing and long-term care options require a move but are more social and can be cost effective. …
To stay at home, an aging expert, such as an Aging Life Care™ Professional (a/k/a Care Manager), can be a valuable resource to help you weigh your options, determine how much care you need, connect you with the best options, and coordinate all the players.
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