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Regaining Your Energy, Optimism, and Hope

The demands of caregiving can be overwhelming, especially if you feel that you’re in over your head or have little control over the situation. If the stress of caregiving is left unchecked, it can take a toll on your health, relationships, and state of mind eventually leading to caregiver stress and burnout. And when you’re burned out, it’s tough to do anything, let alone look after someone else. That’s why taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. There are plenty of things you can do to rein in the stress of caregiving and regain a sense of balance, joy, and hope in your life.

What is caregiver burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by the prolonged and overwhelming stress of caregiving. While caring for a loved one can be very rewarding, it also involves many stressors. And since caregiving is often a long-term challenge, the stress it generates can be particularly damaging. You may face years or even decades of caregiving responsibilities. It can be particularly disheartening when there’s no hope that your family member will get better or if, despite your best efforts, their condition is gradually deteriorating.

If you don’t get the physical and emotional support you need, the stress of caregiving can leave you vulnerable to a wide range of problems, including depression, anxiety, and eventually burnout. And when you get to that point, both you and the person you’re caring for suffer. That’s why managing the stress levels in your life is just as important as making sure your family member gets to their doctor’s appointment or takes their medication on time. No matter how stressful your caregiving responsibilities or how bleak your situation seems, there are plenty of things you can do to ease your stress levels, avoid caregiver burnout, and start to feel positive and hopeful again.

Signs and symptoms of caregiver stress and burnout

By learning to recognize the signs of caregiver stress, you can take steps to deal with the problem and prevent burnout. Or if you recognize that you’ve already hit your breaking point, you can take action right away. Once you burn out, caregiving is no longer a healthy option for either you or the person you’re caring for, so it’s important to watch for the warning signs.


Common signs and symptoms of caregiver stress


Common signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout


While caring for a loved one will never be stress-free, the following tips can help you to lighten the load, avoid the symptoms of caregiver burnout, and find more balance in your life.

Avoid caregiver burnout by feeling empowered

Feeling powerless is the number one contributor to burnout and depression. And it’s an easy trap to fall into as a caregiver, especially if you feel stuck in a role you didn’t expect or helpless to change things for the better. But no matter the situation, you aren’t powerless. This is especially true when it comes to your state of mind. You can’t always get the extra time, money, or physical assistance you’d like, but you can always get more happiness and hope.

Practice acceptance. When faced with the unfairness of a loved one’s illness or the burden of caregiving, there’s often a need to make sense of the situation and ask “Why?” But you can spend a tremendous amount of energy dwelling on things you can’t change and for which there are no clear answers. And at the end of the day, you won’t feel any better. Try to avoid the emotional trap of feeling sorry for yourself or searching for someone to blame.

Embrace your caregiving choice. Acknowledge that, despite any resentments or burdens you feel, you have made a conscious choice to provide care. Focus on the positive reasons behind that choice. Perhaps you provide care to repay your parent for the care they gave you growing up. Or maybe it’s because of your values or the example you want to set for your children. These deep, meaningful motivations can help sustain you through difficult times.

Look for the silver lining. Think about the ways caregiving has made you stronger or how it’s brought you closer to the person you’re taking care of or to other family members.

Don’t let caregiving take over your life. Since it’s easier to accept a difficult situation when there are other areas of your life that are rewarding, it’s important not to let caregiving take over your whole existence. Invest in things that give you meaning and purpose whether it’s your family, church, a favorite hobby, or your career.

Focus on the things you can control. You can’t wish for more hours in the day or force your brother to help out more. Rather than stressing out over things you can’t control, focus on how you choose to react to problems.

Celebrate the small victories. If you start to feel discouraged, remind yourself that all your efforts matter. You don’t have to cure your loved one’s illness to make a difference. Don’t underestimate the importance of making your loved one feel more safe, comfortable, and loved!

Get the appreciation you need

Feeling appreciated can go a long way toward not only accepting a stressful situation, but enjoying life more. Studies show that caregivers who feel appreciated experience greater physical and emotional health. Caregiving actually makes them happier and healthier, despite its demands. But what can you do if the person you’re caring for is no longer able to feel or show their appreciation for your time and efforts?

Imagine how your loved one would respond if they were healthy. If they weren’t preoccupied with illness or pain (or disabled by dementia), how would your loved one feel about the love and care you’re giving? Remind yourself that the person would express gratitude if they were able.

Applaud your own efforts. If you’re not getting external validation, find ways to acknowledge and reward yourself. Remind yourself of how much you are helping. If you need something more concrete, try making a list of all the ways your caregiving is making a difference. Refer back to it when you start to feel low.

Talk to a supportive family member or friend. Positive reinforcement doesn’t have to come from the person you’re caring for. When you’re feeling unappreciated, turn to friends and family who will listen to you and acknowledge your efforts.

Ask for caregiving help

Taking on all of the responsibilities of caregiving without regular breaks or assistance is a surefire recipe for caregiver burnout. Don’t try to do it all alone.

Look into respite care. Enlist friends and family who live near you to run errands, bring a hot meal, or watch the patient so you can take a well-deserved break.  Volunteers or paid help can also provide in-home services, either occasionally or on a regular basis. Or you can explore out-of-home respite programs such as adult day care centers and nursing homes.

Speak up. Don’t expect friends and family members to automatically know what you need or how you’re feeling. Be up front about what’s going on with you and the person that you’re caring for. If you have concerns or thoughts about how to improve the situation, express them, even if you’re unsure of how they’ll be received. Start a dialogue.

Spread the responsibility. Try to get as many family members involved as possible. Even someone who lives far away can help. You may also want to divide up caregiving tasks. One person can take care of medical responsibilities, another with finances and bills, and another with groceries and errands, for example.

Set up a regular check-in. Ask a family member, friend, or volunteer from your church or senior center to call you at a regular time (daily, weekly, or as often as you think you need it). This person can help you spread status updates and coordinate with other family members.

Say “yes” when someone offers assistance. Don’t be shy about accepting help. Let people feel good about supporting you. It’s smart to have a list ready of small tasks that others could easily take care of, such as picking up groceries or driving your loved one to an appointment.

Be willing to relinquish some control. Delegating is one thing, trying to control every aspect of care is another. People will be less likely to help if you micromanage, give orders, or insist on doing things your way.

Give yourself a break

As a busy caregiver, leisure time may seem like an impossible luxury. But you owe it to yourself—as well as to the person you’re caring for—to carve it into your schedule. Give yourself permission to rest and to do things that you enjoy on a daily basis. You will be a better caregiver for it.

There’s a difference between being busy and being productive. If you’re not regularly taking time-off to de-stress and recharge your batteries, you’ll end up accomplishing less in the long run. After a break, you should feel more energetic and focused, so you’ll quickly make up for your relaxation time.

Maintain your personal relationships. Don’t let your friendships get lost in the shuffle of caregiving. These relationships will help sustain you and keep you positive. If it’s difficult to leave the house, invite friends over to visit with you over coffee, tea, or dinner.

Share your feelings. The simple act of expressing what you’re going through can be very cathartic. Sharing your feelings with family or friends won’t make you a burden to others. In fact, most people will be flattered that you trust them enough to confide in them, and it will only strengthen your bond.

Prioritize activities that bring you enjoyment. Make regular time for hobbies that bring you happiness, whether it’s reading, working in the garden, tinkering in your workshop, knitting, playing with the dogs, or watching the game.

Find ways to pamper yourself. Small luxuries can go a long way towards relieving stress and boosting your spirits. Light candles and take a long bath. Ask your spouse for a back rub. Get a manicure. Buy fresh flowers for the house. Whatever makes you feel special.

Make yourself laugh. Laughter is an excellent antidote to stress—and a little goes a long way. Read a funny book, watch a comedy, or call a friend who makes you laugh. And whenever you can, try to find the humor in everyday situations.

Get out of the house. Seek out friends, family, and respite care providers to step in with caregiving so you can have some time away from the home.

Take care of your own health

Think of your body like a car. With the right fuel and proper maintenance, it will run reliably and well. Neglect its upkeep and it will start to give you trouble. Don’t add to the stress of your caregiving situation with avoidable health woes.

Keep on top of your doctor visits. It’s easy to forget about your own health when you’re busy with a loved one’s care. Don’t skip check-ups or medical appointments. You need to be healthy in order to take good care of your family member.

Exercise. When you’re stressed and tired, the last thing you feel like doing is exercising. But you’ll feel better afterwards. Exercise is a powerful stress reliever and mood enhancer. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes on most days—break it up into three 10-minute sessions if that’s easier. When you exercise regularly, you’ll also find it boosts your energy level and helps you fight fatigue.

Practice a relaxation technique. A daily relaxation or meditation practice can help you relieve stress and boost feelings of joy and well-being. Try yoga, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation. Even a few minutes in the middle of an overwhelming day can help you feel more centered.

Eat well. Nourish your body with fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats such as fish, nuts, and olive oil. Unlike sugar and caffeine—which provide a quick pick-me-up and an even quicker crash—these foods will fuel you with steady energy.

Don’t skimp on sleep. Cutting back on time in bed is counterproductive—at least if your goal is to accomplish more. Most people need more sleep than they think (8 hours is the norm). When you get less, your mood, energy, productivity, and ability to handle stress will suffer.

Join a caregiver support group

A caregiver support group is a great way to share your troubles and find people who are going through similar experiences each day. If you can’t leave the house, many online groups are also available.

In most support groups, you’ll talk about your problems and listen to others talk; you’ll not only get help, but you’ll also be able to help others. Most important, you’ll find out that you’re not alone. You’ll feel better knowing that other people are in the same situation, and their knowledge can be invaluable, especially if they’re caring for someone with the same illness as your loved one.

To find a community support group, check the yellow pages, ask your doctor or hospital, or call a local organization that deals with your loved one’s health problem. To find an online support group, visit the websites of organizations dedicated to your loved one’s health problem. Or contact Help at Home Senior Care at (530) 885-7444, a top provider of elder care in Roseville and the surrounding areas, any time for professional in-home care services.

Author: Melinda Smith, M.A. Last updated: November 2018.

Caring for someone with dementia isn’t intuitive and doesn’t come naturally. There’s a lot to learn, but you don’t have to figure everything out the hard way.

In a helpful article at Verywell, social worker Esther Heerema shares 12 dementia care tips that caregivers have learned and wished they’d known sooner.

This advice isn’t meant to add pressure or expectations to your already tough job. They’re tips from caregivers who have “been there and done that” that can lighten your load, reduce stress, and help you cope with the challenges.

Here, we share highlights from Esther’s article along with some of our own insights.

12 dementia care tips from experienced caregivers

1. It’s not worth it to argue with someone who has dementia

Alzheimer’s and dementia causes your older adult’s brain to malfunction. When they say things that don’t make sense or are clearly untrue, they believe what they’re saying because it’s what their brain is telling them.

It’s frustrating to hear things that aren’t true and instinctive to try to correct or remind. But that will only lead to both of you arguing or getting upset. And you simply can’t win an argument with someone who can no longer use reason or logic consistently.

2. Ignoring symptoms won’t make them go away

When you notice your older adult struggling with memory, thinking, or judgement, it’s scary to think that they might have dementia. Because it can be so hard to accept, many people hope that the symptoms will go away on their own or that they’re mistaken.

But the situation isn’t going to fix itself.

The best thing to do is have them see their doctor for a thorough exam. First, there are many treatable health conditions that cause dementia-like symptoms. Second, even if dementia has no cure, early diagnosis means that treatments will be more effective and could delay progression, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.

3. Too many medications can make people feel and act more confused

Medications prescribed to relieve symptoms can sometimes make dementia symptoms worse or create new problems, like increasing disorientation or agitation.

This can happen because seniors are at higher risk for problems related to medicationside effects or drug interactions. Dementia can also change how certain medications affect the brain.

To reduce medication-related problems, call the doctor if you suspect that a new medication is causing a problem and ask them to find alternatives that could work better. It’s also essential to have the doctor regularly review all medications and supplements to make sure every single one is still needed.

4. Use validation therapy or therapeutic fibs to respond kindly

Dementia care experts recommend joining your older adult in their reality rather than trying to force them back into ours. Trying to get them to understand facts or our reality usually causes confusion, anxiety, fear, and anger.

Someone with dementia may insist that they’re children waiting for their mother to pick them up, they need to get to the office even though they’re retired, or they’re going to visit a relative who passed away long ago. Instead of telling them that they’re wrong, use validation therapy or therapeutic fibs to kindly respond to their version of reality.

Gently ask an open-ended question about the person they’re going to see or activity they want to do. Or join their reality by saying OK, going along with the scenario for a while, then redirecting to a different activity.

Validating their reality and allowing them to express their thoughts helps them feel calmer and happier.

5. It’s never too late improve brain health

After finding out that your older adult has dementia, it might seem like improving brain health would be useless. But healthy habits can truly help a brain with dementia. It’s possible to slow the progression of the disease, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Getting regular physical exercise, doing things that are mentally stimulating, and participating in engaging activities all help to improve brain health.

6. Share your challenges and get help

Caregiving, especially dementia care, can be a lonely and exhausting job. Instead of doing everything alone, talk about your challenges and reach out to people who can help.

It can be difficult to seek out or accept help, but caregivers who have gotten help often wish they’d done it sooner – it’s worth a try. Knowing that you’re not the only one going through this or getting a few hours of rest can make a big difference.

That could mean asking family or friends to step up, hiring in-home care servicesmoving to a care community, using respite care, or joining a caregiver support group.

If you’re not sure where to start, call the Alzheimer’s Association or contact your local Area Agency on Aging to connect with local senior care resources.

7. Choose one small thing to do for yourself

When caring for someone, it’s instinctive to focus 100% on them…until you get burned out. But that’s not good for you or your older adult.

It’s not realistic to take long vacations or hours for yourself each day, but you’d be surprised at how effective short breaks can be. Doing something for yourself, whether it’s 30 seconds, 5 minutes, or an hour will help you recharge and reduce the risk of burnout.

Get 10 practical ideas for short breaks here.

8. Choose your priorities and let the rest go

Because you care so much about your older adult, you want to do as much as you can, as perfectly as you can. But holding yourself to those unrealistic expectations causes frustration, resentment, and exhaustion.

Instead, save your mental and physical health by picking your battles. Choose the top priorities and let the less important things go. Think about how important that thing will be in a week, month, or year.

9. Have the tough conversations about medical decisions and choices

Taking care of important legal documents like a willliving will, or power of attorney is something that many people want to put off.

But talking about end of life choices and getting the paperwork done before a health emergency saves you from making hard choices or running into legal problems in the middle of a crisis.

Plus, many older adults have greater peace of mind when they know their wishes will be honored.

10. Remember that they truly can’t control their behavior 

Dementia can’t be seen from the outside, so many people assume that the person can actually control their difficult or irritating behavior. It’s natural to think their actions are personally directed toward you.

That’s not true. Dementia physically damages the brain, which can affect personality, behavior, decision-making, and judgment.

Knowing that it’s the disease talking can help you take things less personally, reduce the sting of hurtful accusations, or help you stay calm when they’ve asked you the same question for the 37th time.

11. 20 minutes later can feel like a whole new day

If you’re helping your older adult with an activity of daily living and they get agitated or combative, it can help to stop and take a short break.

Rather than fighting through and making the situation worse, stepping away to give them (and you) time to calm down can make a big difference. Make sure they’re safe on their own and go to another room for 20 minutes. When you come back and approach calmly, they’ll often be more cooperative.

For example, if mom starts yelling and pushing you when you announce that it’s time for a shower, give her some space and come back to it in a little while, perhaps using a different approach.

This won’t always work, but it often does so it’s worth a try.

12. Quality of life is still possible

It isn’t easy to cope with dementia, both for you and your older adult. But finding ways to enjoy life and having good quality of life is still possible.

You don’t have to pretend that the challenges and pain don’t exist. Try to focus on the positives, no matter how small, and adapt activities for the abilities they still have.

Contact Help at Home Senior Care, a top provider of home health care services in Roseville and nearby areas, for trusted dementia care services and additional helpful resources.

Article by DailyCaring.com

One of the most anxiety-causing side effects of dementia is wandering. With this diagnosis, caregivers come to expect severe memory loss and confusion as to time and place, but usually they are not prepared for the constant “watch” they must have on their loved one.

Wandering in dementia occurs in nearly 60 percent of all people with dementia, especially in the middle stages. There are many facets to this unpredictable behavior, and the causes are as numerous as the tactics people have used to curtail them. In the end, knowing an individual’s personality, prior lifestyle and triggers which may send them “on the move” will make all the difference.

Knowledge Is Key

If a previous homemaker was accustomed to retrieving her children from the bus every day at 3:30 p.m., and as a senior with dementia, she wanders at that time habitually, it’s time to connect the dots. Her wandering pattern is the reason people wake up at the same time each morning without an alarm clock. Those set schedules become a part of the person. The triggers which initiate wandering are different for individuals. No two individuals have identical life experiences and past daily routines; not even driving or walking habits.

When a man lives in New York City his entire life, and then is moved to small-town Wisconsin so his daughter can care for him, it’s understandable he craves some sense of his former life. Plagued with dementia, however, he doesn’t understand that his neighbor from Queens is no longer a short stroll down the sidewalk. Thus, taking a walk becomes a dangerous wandering risk when he can’t find his friend’s home.

A loved one’s former work schedule also can be a clue to wandering patterns. What time did they start? What time did they arrive back home? Some people believe they are at work all day and try to leave when the sun sets, searching for a way home. They may look for a bus stop, train station, even parking garage. Anxiety might creep in when they feel unable to leave and care for their families. Many times a person with dementia says, “Why are you making me stay here?” For a caregiver, knowing these seemingly insignificant “life” facts can make a day less stressful and more predictable.

The Source of Wandering in Dementia

As the professionals at Mayo Clinic emphasize, many wanderers are either searching for or escaping from something.

Often, wandering occurs for no other reason than mere confusion. When a person with dementia becomes lost and disoriented after leaving a restroom at a public setting and cannot place themselves, it is a sign they may need additional supervision.

The challenge for them is an inability to communicate where they are, who they are with, and where to go next. Many times a person with dementia may not know their friends and family by name, but only by sight or even smell. Living with a degenerative memory disease is scary. At the onset, the person knows something is different and “off.” Imagine the fear of being in a room of people who seem familiar, but you just can’t pinpoint why. It makes the person with dementia uncomfortable, so they seek a way out of the situation. Factor in loud music or congestion of people and these triggers guarantee a paranoid, very fearful person. This explains why a person who wanders is not always in search of an intentional destination, but may be expressing a sign of distress and the need to escape.

A caregiver on the hunt must consider the physical, social and geographical factors of the place from where their loved one left. If it’s from the inside of a quiet home with which they are familiar, it’s a different story. They may be bored, looking for their job or going for the mail.

As a caregiver, it’s also necessary to ensure your loved one is getting enough exercise. Just as children and adults need physical stimulation to keep their bodies healthy, so do people suffering from dementia. Exercise lessens their anxiety and sense of boredom. Socialization is also an essential component to controlling nervousness, and in turn, wandering. No one likes to be alone.

The desire to fulfill basic living needs such as eating, drinking and using a restroom are all reasons a person may wander. Photos on doors can help with direction and a successful outcome. It is the caregiver’s responsibility to ensure these needs are met; otherwise, the person under their care may take off in pursuit of a bathroom and soon become lost.

A Different Direction

There are many factors a caregiver cannot control, as hard as they may try. With this illness, brain function is changing and lessening. A caregiver can have some influence, however, by guiding their loved one in a different mental direction.Understanding why persons with dementia wander is the key to keeping them safe. A caregiver can pinpoint the triggers by keeping a journal of the incidents. Also, the caregiver should look for a pattern, whether it is a time of day or the location the wanderer is seeking. Once the “why” is determined, there are several methods available to slow down someone with dementia.

For the homemaker, meeting her kids at the bus, folding towels, stirring a pot, or engaging in something else that reminds her of her past daily routine can keep her busy. A caregiver can tell her that the children will be home shortly, and change the discussion topic. Distraction and redirection are vital in keeping a loved one calm and feeling in control. How a caregiver redirects is just as important as the task itself. It must be done in a way that is supportive of the person with dementia.

The Journal of Family Practice says this: “Redirection is the most commonly misused behavioral management technique. When patients enter restricted areas, attempt to elope, or engage in problematic interpersonal exchanges, caregivers may tell them ‘You can’t do that’ and attempt to physically lead them away. Handled this way, redirection is often an antecedent to agitated or aggressive behavior.”

The journal offers this three-step approach, developed at Mayo Clinic, to successful redirection.

Looking for the Lost

Even though redirection is a crucial part in providing care for a loved one with dementia, there are times the person simply goes missing.

In the “Caregivers Fact Sheet—Wandering in Dementia” by Meredeth Rowe, RN, PhD, it states that typically wanderers are found within five miles of their home. Her research also concludes that 90 percent walk away, five percent drive and very few use public transportation.

This seasoned nurse says the first step is to contact law enforcement as 50 percent of the time this sector is the first to find a lost loved one with dementia. Then, conduct a search immediately. The person will NOT return by themselves. Have a search plan. A friends-and-family network is an essential tool to have in place, so when the caregiver is out searching, the police and other people will have someone by a phone who can inform the others out looking when news comes in.

“Rapid action is crucial in preventing injuries and death after you cannot locate your relative,” says Rowe. “Enlist your family and neighbors to rapidly search the immediate neighborhood including yards, sheds and cars, etc. for about 30 minutes. If you haven’t found the person, call 911 – don’t wait more than 30 minutes at the most.”

Also, it will not work to predict where they may wander. As caregivers, knowing why they wander is one thing, but predicting where they will go is another. At this point, the person is lost and has no clue where to head next.

“Most persons with dementia will remain in populated areas walking in neighborhoods, around or in businesses, or along roads,” Rowe adds. “These people are easier to find, although it might take awhile. A small percentage decide to seclude themselves in woods, natural areas, or abandoned buildings and are very difficult to find. They hide themselves and don’t respond to searchers. So even though a searcher is near them, they remain hidden.”

As a caregiver, first get help searching; and then, get moving!

Technology Tracking

A caregiver must make sure their loved one has identification on them at all times. Often, police or community residents find a wanderer and can easily help by first establishing identity.

However, people with dementia misplace things very easily, including license and ID cards, so today’s technology is aiding caregivers with an extra layer of security for their loved one. The options are growing fast.

One of these options, GPS tracking, is a top competitor for wandering solutions. Many companies have developed their version of “person” tracking devices. Some are bracelets, wristbands, and necklace pendants a loved one can wear with assurance they will never be completely out of sight.

Other technology solutions involve in-home camera monitoring and cell phone tracking devices which are linked to 911 emergency response systems. Resources are available to caregivers; it is just a matter of determining which technology is best suited for their loved one’s lifestyle.

Be Prepared

Safety is always a caregiver’s number one priority and freedom is their loved one’s goal. It may take a village to raise a child, and many caregivers would agree it takes the same to keep a loved one with dementia safe.

From doctors prescribing medications to neighbors being on the look-out, resources are available. Rowe says a caregiver should not be embarrassed to ask for help, and that “persons with dementia wander even when the caregiver has done everything humanly possible to provide excellent care and prevent this from occurring. It is not possible to provide 24-hour supervision. ”

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and professionals at Mayo Clinic offer these practical tips to keep a wanderer safe:

It’s difficult for a caregiver to not feel as if they are “locking down” their loved one, but the repercussions can be a lost person, or worse. Wandering is a serious side effect of dementia, though it may be minimized with a bit of knowledge and practical safety precautions.

If you are looking for a trusted partner to help prevent wandering in dementia or any other in-home care services, contact Help at Home Senior Care, a leader in home care in Lincoln, CA and surrounding areas.

by Jennifer Bradley

Statistics show that many preventable accidents occur in bathrooms. Falls are the top culprit in this category. Wet floors and small spaces are only some of the causes for concern in a bathroom setting. Caregivers must recognize these obstacles before assisting someone they love with bathroom transfers. Ignoring them can be a disaster for both caregiver and the one being cared for.

As an answer to the bathroom-transfers dilemma, many devices and maneuver methods are available to ensure a caregiver’s and their loved one’s safety. It is also important for a caregiver to recognize that nothing is more personal than assisting another with intimate cares. Respect and concern for their loved one’s emotional comfort are as important as their physical care.

At Home Base

Caregivers can establish a large amount of control over bathroom safety while in their own or a loved one’s home. There are two categories a caregiver should consider as preventive safety measures. The first is procedures and the second, products. Many potential problems can be addressed simply by home modification, approach tactics or the use of assistive devices.

Here are some general procedural tips to aid in the completion of a transfer:

Bathroom Specifics

Whether the toilet or tub, there are guidelines caregivers can follow for each care performed in the bathroom. Proper transfer techniques can prevent more serious issues down the road, for all parties involved. Many of those discussed are targeted toward the senior population. However, the techniques could be practiced on any age group.

On a toilet, a raised seat or toilet safety frame is recommended to complete the transfer as safely as possible. First, make sure the person is in position, so both of the backs of their legs touch the toilet. Have their arms reach back to grasp a side grab bar, toilet or vanity for support. A caregiver should next assist them to a seated position. A note on toilet seats: If the person’s feet do not touch the floor when seated on the toilet, it is too high, and will put them at a higher risk for falls due to instability.

Many older homes have tubs with a shower attached, while others have a single shower stall. Each can pose different safety risks, especially after water has had its chance to saturate the area! The most transfer-friendly option is of course, a shower stall. If possible, a caregiver should consider replacing an existing tub with a stall and a shower chair. If not feasible, below are some tips for transfers in a tub.

Some helpful products for this type of transfer include a bench with adjustable legs and a seat large enough for the person being assisted. The bench is made to straddle the outside of the tub/shower combo, and allows for help both in and outside the wet area.

To assist a loved one with greater flexibility and mobility, a simple tub chair can be placed inside for the person to transfer to. A chair with a handle, suction legs and a backrest may cost a little more, but increase the safety of a loved one while in the tub.

On Solid Ground

Another essential tool for a bathroom transfer is a non-skid bath mat. Standing on a wet, unsteady surface makes a loved one feel uneasy and scared, making transfers for a caregiver very difficult. A bath mat provides support and security for both. It is more difficult to assist someone who is not comfortable with a situation and tensing up. A caregiver should always make every effort to keep their loved one calm and collected during a transfer.

Grab bars are a must for any caregiver looking to make a loved one’s bathroom transfer-friendly. First, a grab bar (or more) is helpful for getting in and out of the tub, and can be placed on the surrounding walls or cabinets. Second, grab bars for in the tub offer support while standing to shower and rinse off, as well as transfer in and out. Here are some suggestions for grab bar placement, as suggested by an Internet article entitled “Bath Safety for Seniors”:

If a pre-established shower will not allow grab bar placement, a walker can be used for support in and out of a shower or tub. Towel bars are NOT enough support for transfers. They were made for supporting light towels and not a person’s full weight.

Using a towel bar may seem like a good “quick fix” but have disastrous consequences if it breaks under the pressure.

Also, make sure the grab bars stand out from the place they are attached to. Many people with special needs have a hard time seeing and distinguishing colors. A white bar placed on a beige shower/tub is asking for trouble.

Below are some other guidelines for general safety in the bathroom, not necessarily transfer-related, but that will make for easier transfers and a more positive experience. This information also comes from the article, “Bath Safety for Seniors”

When in Rome...

Do as the Romans? What if the Romans aren’t set up the way a caregiver needs them to be? It’s much easier to predict transfer hazards in a private home, but in public, there are many challenges a caregiver cannot control. Here are some ways to be an advocate for a loved one, in any situation, all while keeping them safe in a public restroom.

First, it’s obvious to choose restaurants and attractions with up-to-par handicap-friendly facilities. Even though most places today are up to code, that doesn’t mean the layout works in a caregiver’s favor. The best option is to have a loved one use the restroom before leaving, and in the event of a short outing, this works well.

However, there will be times a transfer does need to be performed in a public setting. Always wait for the handicap-accessible stall to be open, as it is the widest and most transfer-friendly. Allow the loved one full access to the grab bars, and a caregiver should assist as best as possible.

As before, a caregiver should use a gait belt for additional support and control. Always angle the wheelchair, if necessary, and lock the brakes. Ensure the person’s feet are flat on the floor and ready to support the body once standing. A caregiver should place their hands on the person’s hips or waist, and as they stand, give a lift for support. As they stand, help pivot onto the toilet help them get seated and ensure they are stable before moving further.

Whether on familiar territory or in the middle of a crowded public restroom, a caregiver can complete a successful transfer of a loved one with a few simple rules. First, is to ensure the caregiver’s safety by utilizing proper lifting techniques and transfer methods. An unsafe caregiver will only hurt themselves and the loved one they are caring for. They are then useless to do the task at hand.

Also, a caregiver must teach their loved one how to help themselves as much as possible, by lifting and using grab bars for assistance. When both parties are active in a transfer, aware of each other’s safety and respecting each other’s boundaries, both physical and emotional, bathroom transfers will become a routine well prepared for.

Let Help at Home Senior Care, a leading provider of in-home care in Grass Valley, CA and the surrounding areas, help with safe bathroom transfers and a wide range of other in-home care assistance. Contact us at (530) 885-7444 for a free in-home consultation to learn more!

BY JENNIFER BRADLEY

AN INVESTIGATION ON ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH HIPPOCAMPAL VOLUME AND MEMORY PERFORMANCE IN OLDER ADULTS

For centuries it has been known that dancing is a very beneficial activity in regards of health. But the real breakthrough happened in 2012, after the results of two studies, held on the correlation between health and dancing, especially dancing and Alzheimer's, were published.

One of the studies was held at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. The results were published in the article in the New England Journal of Medicine. An excellent review of the study was written by professor of Stanford University Dance Vision – Richard Powers. The full text of the article You can find here. Meanwhile lets take a brief look at the study – here are some excerpts from the review:

“For centuries, dance manuals and other writings have lauded the health benefits of dancing, usually as physical exercise.  More recently we’ve seen research on further health benefits of dancing, such as stress reduction and increased serotonin level, with its sense of well-being.

Most recently we’ve heard of another benefit:  Frequent dancing apparently makes us smarter. A major study added to the growing evidence that stimulating one’s mind by dancing can ward off Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, much as physical exercise can keep the body fit.  Dancing also increases cognitive acuity at all ages.

The 21-year study of senior citizens, 75 and older, was led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, funded by the National Institute on Aging, and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.  Their method for objectively measuring mental acuity in aging was to monitor rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The study wanted to see if any physical or cognitive recreational activities influenced mental acuity. They discovered that some activities had a significant beneficial effect.  Other activities had none. They studied cognitive activities such as reading books, writing for pleasure, doing crossword puzzles, playing cards and playing musical instruments.  And they studied physical activities like playing tennis or golf, swimming, bicycling, dancing, walking for exercise and doing housework. One of the surprises of the study was that almost none of the physical activities appeared to offer any protection against dementia.  There can be cardiovascular benefits of course, but the focus of this study was the mind. There was one important exception: the only physical activity to offer protection against dementia was frequent dancing.

WHY DANCING?

We immediately ask two questions:

  1. Why is dancing better than other activities for improving mental capabilities?
  2. Does this mean all kinds of dancing, or is one kind of dancing better than another?

That’s where this particular study falls short.  It doesn’t answer these questions as a stand-alone study.  Fortunately, it isn’t a stand-alone study.  It’s one of many studies, over decades, which have shown that we increase our mental capacity by exercising our cognitive processes.  Intelligence: Use it or lose it.  And it’s the other studies which fill in the gaps in this one.  Looking at all of these studies together lets us understand the bigger picture. Some of this is discussed here (the page you may have just came from) which looks at intelligence in dancing.  The essence of intelligence is making decisions.  And the concluding advice, when it comes to improving your mental acuity, is to involve yourself in activities which require split-second rapid-fire decision making, as opposed to rote memory (retracing the same well-worn paths), or just working on your physical style. One way to do that is to learn something new.  Not just dancing, but anything new.  Don’t worry about the probability that you’ll never use it in the future.  Take a class to challenge your mind.  It will stimulate the connectivity of your brain by generating the need for new pathways.  Difficult and even frustrating classes are better for you, as they will create a greater need for new neural pathways. Then take a dance class, which can be even better.  Dancing integrates several brain functions at once, increasing your connectivity. Dancing simultaneously involves kinesthetic, rational, musical and emotional processes.

Finally, remember that this study made another suggestion: do it often.  Seniors who did crossword puzzles four days a week had a measurably lower risk of dementia than those who did the puzzles once a week.  If you can’t take classes or go out dancing four times a week, then dance as much as you can.  More is better.

And do it now, the sooner the better.  It’s essential to start building your cognitive reserve now.  Some day you’ll need as many of those stepping stones across the creek as possible.  Don’t wait — start building!” And, Help at Home Senior Care, a top provider of elder care in Roseville and the surrounding areas, can help! Contact us at (530) 885-7444 to find out more about our skilled, creative care for those with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

From THE ALZHEIMER'S PROJECT JOURNAL

Fall Risks and Prevention

Senior citizens make up 13% of the total United States population. As more Baby Boomers reach retirement age, that number is expected to grow. The “oldest old” — those aged 85 and over — are the most rapidly growing elderly age group. It is expected the oldest old will number 19 million in the United States by 2050. That would make them 24 percent of elderly Americans and 5 percent of all Americans.

Along with that growth comes a growing risk of senior falls. In 2011, over 59,000 California seniors suffered a fall requiring a visit to an emergency room, according to the Sacramento Bee. More than 60% of individuals who fall will fall again within six months.

The California Department of Public Health estimates that the number of seniors aged 85 or older who died as a result of a fall more than doubled in the last decade.

Why this increase? Balance declines with age. Many factors contribute toward increased fall risks. These include: osteoporosis, sudden decrease in blood pressure, loss of muscle strength, stroke, arthritis, illness, diabetes and medications that cause dizziness. In addition, home safety hazards such as stairs and throw rugs are cited as issues.

Don’t let a fear of falling keep you from being active. Doing things like getting together with friends, gardening, walking, or going to the local senior center are also important for staying healthy. The good news is that there are simple ways to prevent most falls.

By taking care of your overall health, you may be able to lower your chances of falling.

Other ways to reduce fall risks include:

Above all, take precautions, and remain as active as possible. Preventing falls will keep you healthier longer.

For additional information about our Help at Home senior services, contact us today at (530) 885-7444. For a full list of all of the communities where we provide care, please visit our Service Area page

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