Stephan Baldwin is the Director of Business Development for AssistedLivingCenter.com, a resource for senior care communities.
More than likely, if you're reading this, you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one who is nearing the end of their life. Unless you are a professionally trained nurse, you've probably never done this before. It is normal to feel scared, confused, even a little angry or resentful.
The end of life experience is different for everyone. This guide was written to help you navigate common issues and concerns that many people face as a caregiver.
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Much has been written about the benefits of technology for seniors, but did you know that caregivers have plenty to gain from embracing technology, as well? The National Alliance for Caregiving's Catalyzing Technology to Support Family Caregiving report highlights the value of mobile, online, and in-home technologies for supporting family caregivers, and proposing recommendations aimed at optimizing its impact. Let's take a closer look.
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When most people hear the word "doula," they think of mothers, babies and childbirth. However, a growing group of healthcare professionals and volunteers are choosing to specialize in a very different -- and yet equally important -- area of practice: end-of-life care. Read on to learn more about "death doulas," along with the invaluable services they provide to the dying and their families.
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If your caregiving duties become extra challenging in the late afternoon, you're not alone. In fact, many people with dementia and Alzheimer's experience dramatic changes in behavior during this time of day resulting in increased demands upon caregivers. The phenomenon -- thought to be brought on by fading light -- is so common that it's earned its own name: sundowning. Let's take a closer look at sundowner's syndrome, as well as tips and tricks for managing the condition.
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No matter how old you are, sleeping is essential for health and well-being, and the "Importance of Sleep for Seniors" cannot be overlooked. Scientists are increasingly advancing our knowledge of the link between Alzheimer's disease and sleep, including recent groundbreaking research from the Washington University's Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center indicating that there's a "bidirectional relationship" between the development of the disease and sleep and circadian problems. The takeaway? In addition to being a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease, sleep problems may also be an early indicator of the disease. In either case, the more caregivers understand about sleep and Alzheimer's, the more they can help both themselves and the people for whom they care, to enjoy more restful sleep.
Sleep is a vital part of wellness for people with Alzheimer's -- and their caregivers.
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Reading is one of life's greatest pleasures, but age-related challenges often prevent older adults from enjoying this hobby. One simple, yet significant, solution for caregivers looking to keep the many benefits of books in the lives of their aging loved ones is Audiobooks. And, as it turns out, the benefits of introducing seniors to this popular technology go far beyond entertainment. Let's take a closer look at how audiobooks can improve the quality of life of older adults, along with some tips for caregivers to help get them started.
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More than 90 percent of people have at least one cataract by the age of 65, according to the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. While cataracts are extremely common in seniors, not all caregivers understand what they are and how they impact vision. There's no better time to shine the light on this important senior wellness topic than during June's Cataract Awareness Month. Let's count down seven things all caregivers need to know about cataracts.
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Graham Jones is a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Buckingham and an Associate Lecturer at The Open University in the UK. Jones, B.Sc., B.A., Adv.Dip.Ed., MBPsS, M.Ed. M.Sc., is a qualified psychologist, the author of 32 books, and an award-winning writer and speaker, contributing regularly to a wide range of publications and speaking at conferences and events around the world.
Home care for seniors often involves a great deal of hard work for certain family members. Frequently, it is a daughter who has to cope with the most significant burden. Looking after an elderly mother or father can be stressful. Not only is there the additional physical demands that need to be met, but at-home senior care can create a psychological toll on family members. No one likes to see their mother or father become less capable and in need of support. After all, it is parents who care for their children, not the other way around.
Ken Accardi, CEO of Ankota, a home care software company dedicated to keeping our elderly loved ones out of the hospital. Here he discusses trends in home care and offers insight on software options for caregivers. Read on:
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