Q – My mother, who is 72, seems to have increasing stress levels as she gets older and deals with more of the trials and tribulations of aging; are there any proven methods that could help reduce the stress levels of Pasadena seniors?

A – Reducing stress in Pasadena seniors is easier than you’d think, with some simple lifestyle changes that can easily be incorporated into any life; it’s possible to help seniors lead less stressful lives. Encourage your mother to get active in her community and remain social with friends and family. By focusing on someone else and forgetting about her problems while having fun, it’s very possible for her to forget about her own stress.

Diet and exercise can also play a big role in eliminating stress; by ensuring your mother gets a well-balanced diet daily, and incorporates regular exercise into her daily routine, she will find that she copes with stress much more effectively. Depending upon her level of physical mobility, virtually any cardiovascular exercise can have its benefits; consider walking, running, or engaging in one of her favorite sports. Even activities geared completely towards relaxation and control of thoughts can be beneficial, like yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises.

While it may seem like stress is an inevitable part of aging, with effective stress management techniques, seniors do not need to find themselves over burdened by stress.

Sources:

1. American Institute of Stress

2. About

Image:www.dovechristiancounseling.com

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

Sometimes walking into a doctor’s office feels like traveling to another country. The flight can be as short or as long as the scheduling dictates and is not determined by distance, but like a plane ride, your neighbor in the next room probably has a bad case of the sniffles. Once you get to your final destination, it can be like emerging yourself in another culture where no one speaks your language, and you return home feeling like you might have learned something from the experience, but require a translator to determine just what. As a senior caregiver, this might be a circumstance you encounter every time you step into a doctor’s office for a consultation with his/her physician. As with traveling to another country, doctors assume that we speak their language and understand what they’re saying; however, this may not always be the case when less common medical terms are being thrown around.

While of course it’s important to ask for clarification when at the doctor’s office, the internet has a wealth of resources to help seniors and their families understand important issues that relate to their health. The Medical Library Association offers a site called Medspeak which gives caregivers access to medical terms in an easy to understand dictionary form. MedicineNet also offers a comprehensive guide to help people understand the medical conditions and other information related to their health.

Caregivers, share your worst doctor experiences that have resulted from a breakdown in communication.

Sources:
1. Medical Library Association
2. MedicineNet

Image: Image: www.navigenics.com

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

It’s spring in Pasadena and when taking seniors outside in the warmer temperatures, home care caregivers must take special care to ensure that seniors are protected from the heat. With the proper precautions this spring in Pasadena older adults can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without any negative repercussions upon their health. When planning outdoor activities on hot or sunny days, choose times of the day, like early morning when the sun is not as hot; and ensure that chosen locations have shady areas so seniors don’t have to remain in the direct sunlight.

Staying well hydrated will also help seniors prevent the affects of heat stroke; make sure there is lots of cool water on hand as well as healthy, juicy snacks like fruits and salads. Cooling treats like ice cream and popsicles can also be delicious ways to ensure a senior remains cool even in warmer temperatures and will help prevent the onset of heat stroke. Also be sure that the senior is well dressed for the weather, hats and sunscreen are crucial, as are light billowing fabrics to help keep the body cool.

Caregivers should also be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion, and get the senior medical attention if symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, heavy sweating, dizziness, rapid pulse, confusion or fainting occur.

Sources:

1. Today’s Senior’s Network

2. Senior Ark

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

With summer approaching here in Pasadena it’s time for family caregivers to start thinking about interesting activities that they can do with their seniors. I know that every year it’s always a challenge to come up with different senior activities that I can complete with my elderly mother; and I feel sometimes, I’m not quite meeting expectations with my senior activity ideas. This year, instead of falling into seasonal stereotypes, I’ve decided to plan senior activities around the little known holidays and nationally recognized special days during the month of June and beyond.

I bet you didn’t know that the 2nd week in June is National Clay Week? Well, neither did I, until I happened to find it listed online, but it’s the inspiration for a great new senior craft activity idea this June. I’ve found a local ceramics painting shop in Pasadena which will allow me to take a ceramic figurine and all of the necessary craft supplies home so my mom and I can complete the crafts in comfort, and then return the painted crafts to the store so they can be heated in the kiln. June is also National Adopt-a-Cat month, and while my mother may not be in a position to add a furry friend to her household, it doesn’t mean she can’t receive the benefits of interacting with animals; so we’re volunteering at a local animal shelter where we can give back to the animal community, and give my mom the emotional and physical benefits that only an animal can have upon a senior citizen.

When caregivers get creative, a world of new opportunity can open in the lives of their seniors!

Sources:

About.com

MSNBC

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

Q – What signs indicate that a caregiver might be feeling overwhelmed?

A- A number of bad habits may surface, which may at face value appear harmless but when combined, can indicate that a caregiver is feeling overwhelmed, burdened, or stressed-out by their caregiving responsibilities. A senior caregiver exhibiting these signs who does not actively address their habits can develop future problems which can lead to elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

If you or a caregiver you know in Pasadena is exhibiting any of the following signs, it may be time to take a step back or reconsider how to effectively manage your senior caregiving duties.

• Trying to do too much, resulting in not getting anything done
•  Doing the wrong thing, regularly
•  Procrastination, everyday
•  Having no clear cut goals
•  Improper or no planning
•  Not completing tasks
•  Negative self talk
•  Guilt trips
•  Lax hand washing
•  Holding in, or offering no support
•  Smoking
•  Drinking too much
•  Junk food, poor diet
•  Emotional eating
•  Too much caffeine
•  Compulsive spending
•  No time off
•  Sleep deprived
•  Constant bad temper
•  Can’t or won’t delegate
•  Disorganized
•  Holding breath
•  Can’t prioritize
•  Time management problems
•  Can’t make a decision

Sources:
1. Eldercare ABC Blog

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

Q – I know that the 2009 Stimulus Plan revealed that the elderly would be receiving one-time $250 Stimulus Checks, but I haven’t received mine. How do I get one?

A – The 2009 Senior Stimulus Checks are available to seniors who have received any one of the following benefits in November 2008, December 2008, or January 2009: Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement or Veterans Benefits. According to United States Vice President Biden, 2009 one-time Stimulus Checks should be in the mail starting at the beginning of May. In order for seniors to receive their Stimulus Checks, seniors only need to meet the benefit eligibility requirements, but do not need to apply or engage in any other actions.

Sources:
1. Senior Journal
2. SS Social Security Info

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

When my mother was in her 70’s, we talked her into adding identity theft insurance to her home insurance policy, knowing that the chances she might be a victim of fraud were fairly high in the senior demographic. The policy offered by her insurance policy for identity theft coverage cost nearly $30 extra per month, but after careful research we decided the benefits were worth it. While fraud insurance doesn’t actually cover any financial losses at the result of identity theft, it does provide coverage relating to the recovery process that occurs after such a fraud has occurred, including lost wages and legal bills up to $15,000 per claim.

When choosing to get the identity theft insurance for my mother, I ensured that the whole family understood that we still can’t let our guard down when it comes to managing my mom’s affairs. The same precautions still need to be taken when reviewing her finances and handling important documentation to prevent identity theft and fraud; the policy is only an additional safeguard, but it doesn’t decrease her chances of becoming a victim.

I would recommend fraud insurance to all seniors provided the policy is affordable for their lifestyle and income level, and that appropriate coverage is available. Fortunately, while my aging mom has not yet been impacted by fraud, we know with the insurance, if it occurs, she will manage to recover from it.

Sources:
1. Spam Laws
2. Globe and Mail Joanna Pachner

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

Q – I have noticed some signs that my elderly mother is struggling to live independently in her own home. While I have some ideas about home care, I do come from a large family in Pasadena and feel it’s important that I involve my siblings and immediate family in the decision making. What’s the best way to go about this?

A – Ask your immediate family to get together in Pasadena so that you can all discuss your concerns about your mother’s health and care. If not all siblings live close by, you can set-up a conference call so that everyone can be involved in discussing your mother’s care requirements. For the first meeting, don’t involve your mother, so you can talk openly about your concerns without upsetting her. Discussing eldercare requirements for a loved one, can be stressful, so keep the following tips in mind when planning your first family senior home care meeting.

1. Establish a goal for each meeting – the first meeting might be about discussing concerns, and making suggestions for how to proceed with home care

2. Invite only close relatives – invite your close siblings or other family members you feel must be involved, but try to keep numbers under 7 people

3. Allow each family member the chance to speak without interrupting

4. Share resources – each family member can bring information about your mother’s specific conditions or local resources that may be able to help

5. Have a moderator – invite a 3rd, impartial party like a counselor or Geriatric Care Manager to help keep the meeting on track if you feel there will be disputes about your mother’s care amongst family

Sources:

1. Elder Care Online

2. Suite101

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

Q1 – How can a senior find a doctor?

A1 – The American Medical Association Doctor Finder is a directory of American doctors that includes their history as medical professionals. Find doctors that are located in your local area, but make the final decision based on other important factors.

Q2 – What else should seniors consider when choosing a doctor?

A2 – It’s important to decide whether a general practitioner or specialist is required based on the elderly person’s medical history. For affordability, a doctor that complies with your health benefits or medical insurance plan should also be chosen; and naturally, you want a doctor that has a great track record.

Q3 – How can you tell if a doctor’s good?

A3 – To understand how well a doctor performs, by interviewing them and their office staff.  Find out if they encourage questions, and if they remain respectful. A doctor’s professional history can be reviewed using a number of online directories, including the NCQA Recognized Physician Directory, The American Board of Medical Specialties and The Federal State of Medical Boards.

Sources:

1. Seniors for Living

2. MedicineNet

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.

This summer in Pasadena, take advantage of the availability of fresh produce from farmer’s markets in the area, and even in your local grocery store. With so many delicious and healthy fruits and vegetables in season, summer is a great time to ensure that you receive a nutritious diet often at their lowest price. Summer is also the ideal time for seniors to prepare for themselves healthy meals, because with so many fresh delicious herbs available and the option of barbequing outside, meal preparation and cooking time during the summer months can be done quickly and easily.

Another reason for seniors to stock up on the fresh produce available during the summer in Pasadena is to ensure that they remain hydrated once the weather turns hot. Fresh fruits and vegetables, which are crisp and juicy, not only taste great when you’ve been outside in the warmer temperatures, but they’ll help prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration. Elderly people that have a sweet tooth will also be able to satisfy their cravings throughout the summer with all of the rich, sweet and nutritious berries that are in season and make great morning or afternoon snacks!

Sources:
1.    Senior Advocate
2.    eHow

Home Care Pasadena provides home care for the elderly, aging, and seniors in Pasadena, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Eagle Rock, La Canada, South Pasadena, Los Angeles area. Call us today at 626-486-0800.