Caregiver Training Blog

In his Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton Cottage, Thomas Gray coined the phrase "Ignorance is bliss." Thomas Gray did not lead the life of a caregiver. As a caregiver, the job does not end once at home. For a caregiver, concern continues well after leaving and can cause increased stress levels. These increased stress levels can actually affect health and wellbeing even when away from work. Medical Alert Devices can eliminate the unknown for caregivers and family members. Knowing the wearer is safe at home relieves caregiver and family member stress and also improves the quality of life and safety for the elderly.

One-third of American adults are currently at risk for developing kidney disease, according to the National Kidney Foundation. At increased risk? People aged 60 or older. In fact, of the 26 million people in the United States living with kidney disease, the vast majority are seniors. Let's take a closer look at this common ailment, along with what caregivers need to know to safeguard the health and quality of life of their aging loved ones.

Anemia is a disease that affects people of all ages. Anemia does not know age limits or geographic boundaries, however nearly a quarter of all seniors suffer from it. Some cases of anemia are brought on by blood loss, others by diet. The effects on an individual who has anemia can vary greatly based upon age, with serious consequences for the elderly.

Listening is one of the simplest ways to show you care.

The life of a caregiver can often feel overwhelming -- particularly when the day-to-day demands of caregiving obscure the "big picture" view of why caregivers do what they do. If you're just going through the motions every day without stopping to reflect on your role and its impact, it's important to check in to make sure you're truly connecting with your aging loved one.

One simple way to improve your connections as a caregiver is to hone your listening skills. Let's count down three simple techniques for being a better listener, along with examining why they matter.

Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow this year which means warm weather may be closer than you think. And while thoughts of spring may turn to summer and sunshine, the season also brings to mind something else: spring cleaning. For overloaded caregivers, however, spring cleaning can be a dreaded task. These six tips can help you get the job done with minimal stress and maximal results.

Make a list and stick to it.

Joints connect bones, provide support, and help us move. Unfortunately, injury and disease can damage joints, leading to impeded movement and debilitating pain. As we age, these issues become increasingly common -- particularly during the winter months when cold exacerbates the issue. But while joint pain is a fact of life for many seniors, caregivers can help them manage their discomfort and improve their quality of life. Let's take a closer look at the issue of joint pain, along with several effective pain management techniques.

A doctor can shed light on what's causing senior joint pain.

Mike Good, founder of TogetherInThis.com, is passionate about helping caregivers manage the challenges and unique needs of loved ones with Alzheimer's. Here, he discusses his site while offering advice to caregivers on finding resources and assistance in caring for Alzheimer's patients.

The liver is by no means the most glamorous organ. The heart gets the glory of pumping blood throughout the body. The brain controls function and thought. The lungs provide oxygen that allows the body to run smoothly. The liver is the waste treatment plant of the body. It removes toxins, it breaks down fats, and it manufactures bile. Its functions help to store nutrients and improve the immune system. While its work is not pretty, the liver keeps our bodies' systems clean and pure. Without it, none of the other organs would be able to perform their jobs.

A Hepatitis C screening helps protect and promote liver health.

From cute and cuddly to friendly and faithful, pets come in all shapes, sizes and personality types. But did you know that pets also offer numerous health and wellness benefits to their owners - particularly in the case of seniors? As it turns out, pet ownership isn't merely good for older people. It can actually be life-changing and, in some cases, life-saving.

A senior's best friend?

It has been recently suggested, by JAMA Oncology, that seniors may be getting too many health screenings. As a caregiver of a senior, it might be assumed that any health screening is in the best interest of the individual. However, there may be some screenings that are unnecessary.