Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Our caregivers know how appropriate and healthy communication can make or break the important relationships that they come to form with the seniors that they care for. They try not to pay attention to the common stereotypes that come with aging, and instead learn about who they are and what’s important to them.

We know that some members of society see seniors as having a low continued value, since they may no longer work and have children who are grown. However, our caregivers focus upon the many contributions that they do make, instead of what they don’t. We like to learn about and help seniors get involved in the community through local volunteering, help them make preparation to donate to important causes, and love hearing the stories about spending times with their grandchildren and families.

Instead of treating seniors differently, we talk to them like people; we know that regardless of physical or cognitive difficulties, children aren’t babies, and they deserve respect too. However, our caregivers have learned it’s not helpful to go overboard either; while we appreciate the knowledge and experience that their advanced aged provides them with, we know it’s better to treat them as we would any other adult, regardless of age.

After years of professional experience, we’ve refined our communication skills with seniors, and encourage families to do the same.

Dr. Jake Harwood, Professor, University of Arizona

Earlier this year we lost my father after a long fight with a chronic illness. Before this unfortunate and devastating event that altered all of our lives, my parents were planning on spending the holidays at home on their own while I celebrated the season at my in-laws’. Without my dad to be with her, I was worried about my mom being at home alone so I offered to change my family’s plans and travel across the country to spend the holidays with her.

Surprisingly, my mom wouldn’t hear of it; she said as much as she loved and missed my father, she was going to learn to live as a single woman, holidays or no holidays. She said that she was taking the time to mourn, but that the best way for her to cope with the holidays would be to get on with life. She had been invited to a couple of holiday parties and dinners with friends that she was planning on attending, and also decided to volunteer with a local toy drive. I made her promise that if she was having a hard time, that she would attend a support group, at least to get her through the holidays. I’ve also made a point to keep my dad’s memory alive, both with her and my children; we laugh and smile over memories of seasons when we were all together.

Now, as I prepare to travel across the country, away from my own mother for the holidays; I know that she needs to get through the season in her own way, and if she has to do it by herself then I know it will only make her stronger.

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

After my mom’s stroke, I began pursuing various treatment options to help improve her skills and increase her self-esteem which was greatly compromised by her declining abilities. I had always been hesitant about pursuing alternative therapies, because I didn’t see hw non-medical methods could possibly work. But my thought was; what could it hurt? So I began researching holistic and alternative treatments, including music therapy, to see how they might benefit her.

According to some sources, there is further research being conducted into the specific benefits upon stroke patients, since it recalls recall and recognition of auditory patterns, researchers are hopeful that music might help rebuild the cells impacted by the stroke. That was all I needed to read to start incorporating music into my mother’s regular routine. I wasn’t ready to invest in a musical therapist, but tried to recreate the benefits at home with the help of her full-time, professional caregiver. 

I purchased some classical and Broadway music CD’s that I knew my mom would enjoy. I would put one on every time I came by to visit and encourage her to sing, clap and move to the music. Sometimes it felt a little silly dancing around her home and belting out some of her favorite show tunes, but I lost my self-consciousness once I began to see the benefits upon my mother with my own eyes.

I can’t attest to the impact it’s having upon her mind and body, but I can tell you what it was doing to her overall well-being. She was happy and carefree both during our musical times together and on a day-to-day basis. I knew it took her away from the concerns in her mind, and that she came to really enjoy the time we spent together doing these activities. I can see that my mom is more relaxed and has a smile on her face more often; so even if the music therapy benefits her in no other ways, it’s worth it; because what can be better than knowing you can make your mom smile?
 
Sources: http://www.artsforhealing.org/seniors.php
               http://www.musicworkswonders.com/html/seniors.html

This year, our family is getting together at my mom’s house. I know that usually when she has visitors over the holiday, she goes all out with meals, décor and gifts. This year, as I know she is concerned about her finances, I am suggesting a new approach to holiday celebrations that won’t cost her a fortune, and she is on board!

At my suggestion, instead of buying new holiday decorations, like she often does every year, her grandchildren are going to help her make some new ones out of twigs, pine cones and walnuts. We’ve chosen some paints and other art supplies in seasonal colors to suit my mom’s theme and the kids are so excited to get started. It will be a fun bonding experience for a grandmother with her grandchildren, and will help get us all in the holiday spirit.

Since we have such a big extended family, when my mom hosts the Christmas day celebrations, she won’t be cooking or catering this time; she has asks everyone to bring a dish for our meal.

My mom has gotten so into the spirit of saving, she’s even encouraging the rest of the family to give homemade gifts instead of bringing store bought items. So for the holidays this year, our family is focusing more on enjoying time spend together than consumerism.

Sources: http://50plus.com/Money/BrowseAllArticles/index.cfm?t_offset=3&documentID=15693
http://www.settlement.org/sys/faqs_detail.asp?faq_id=4000236

Shopping is a favorite pastime for many seniors. And with the holidays around the corner, there’s a lot of opportunities to schedule shopping trips! If you plan a shopping trip with your aging senior, consider these tips:

Take your senior shopping during the time of day when they have the most energy.  Plan around considerations such as health issues and how active they are. 

2. Think about their needs, is a wheelchair needed, or oxygen or a walker. Bring along any medications that need to be taken while you’re gone.  Many shopping centers – rent scooters and wheelchairs.

3.  IKnow the layout of the mall and stores you want to visit. Call them prior and get a map.  

4. Avoid staying out all day. Seniors are unable to shop ‘til they drop. Match your pace with theirs. Take frequent bathroom breaks. Have a long leisure lunch.

Your loved one most likely does not shop often. They are not used to being out all day without resting frequently. They live a quiet life and being out with a lot of people can wear them out. Make is a slow day for them - enjoy the time together.

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Let us help you keep mom and dad at home!

Borrowed Eyes

Living at great distance from aging parents can be nerve wracking; you never know if they’re doing okay, and rely on what they tell you which might not always be accurate. Friends and neighbors who are close to a senior can act as your eyes and ears when you are away. These people can detect changes in your parent’s behavior and routines, and can visually detect if something does not appear right with the older adult. 

But friends and neighbors are not always available to help out or check in on an aging relative even though they may live door. When you live at a distance from mom, and you don’t trust mom to give you the truth.. not because she wants to lie to you - but instead she does not want to worry you, that’s where we come in.

Home Instead Senor Care Austin has been working with elders and seniors in Austin for over 5 years. We are reliable and can be your second set of eyes - on a consistent basis which is important to a family member living away from an elderly loved one.

It can be beneficial to establish this support network for your parents whether they live independently in their own home, or in a community living environment, because in addition to offering you reassurance and being a local emergency contact; we can provide companionship to your loved one.

Our professional CAREGiver can stop by on a regular basis, just to check in and also let them know they have support.

Over the holidays, when celebrating with your parents, remember to extend your gratitude to the companion or caregiver for all that they do.

Arranging my Mother’s Care

For a few years I have told myself that I need to look into care options in my mom’s area, because I have noticed some signs that she is finding living independently too difficult. This year, when I visit over the holidays, will be the year. I don’t know if I will come to a decision before I get back on the plane, but while it town I can better arm myself with the information I need that I can’t attain long distance.

I have already called ahead to determine when a local support group for caregivers meet; I think this is the best way to begin the process, because I can talk with others who have had similar experiences and may understand the challenges I face living long distance. After this meeting, I will also pick up any literature available on groups for seniors, because my mom, who has a history of suffering minor strokes, may find it beneficial to talk with others that she can relate to.

In the past, I’ve noticed that my mom’s balance isn’t what it used to be, so I’ve looked at safety products online that will help her remain safe in the bathroom. When I get to her house, I’m going to check out what’s most appropriate and stop in at a local store so I can purchase and install the items while I’m visiting.

While I don’t yet know what the best caregiving option will be; I’m also going to visit a few nursing and assisted living homes in the area, and meet with private in-home caregivers so I am aware of the options.

I know it sounds like my holidays will be all work; but I’ll make time to celebrate, and I know that taking control over my mom’s care will be one of the best gifts I can give her.

Resources:

Seniors Resource Guide, Texas (http://www.seniorsresourceguide.com/directories/SanAntonio/search_topics.html)

Texas Aging Network
(http://www.texasagingnetwork.com/)

USA.gov Senior Citizens Resources
(http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors.shtml)

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Let us help you keep mom and dad at home!

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Let us help you keep mom and dad at home!

Knowledge for Caregivers: Senior Changes

As an organization that specializes in senior care, we know that the loss of independence older adults face can be one of the greatest emotional struggles of their long lives. As family members and caregivers, it is our responsibility to understand why losing independence can be so difficult for seniors. We also need to do our best to be supportive and empathetic during the process to make the changes as easy on them as possible.

Why Loss of Independence is Challenging

• Seniors are force to face the realities that they are aging
• Seniors may be incapable of completing routine tasks without assistance
• Seniors may need to turn to family members to monitor their finances, which results in a loss of decision-making control
• Seniors may be forced to move from the homes that contain family memories
• Seniors may no longer be able to get around on their own, based on limitations of physical mobility or inability to drive a car
• Seniors may be resentful of the fact that they need assistance with dressing and bathing
• Seniors may be concerned about their own physical and mental health
• Seniors may become preoccupied with the perceived burden they are placing on family caregivers
• Seniors may face financial strain by hiring a caregiver or paying for residence in an assisted living facility

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Let us help you keep mom and dad at home!

Shopping for your grandchildren. The secret is in the planning!

Shopping on the day after Thanksgiving is as much a part of the holiday season as tree lights, holiday cookies, and tinsel. You can find bargains if you do some preparation beforehand and ready with sales flyers, newspaper and ads.

And boy, can you find deals. Here are some tips:

• Map your course - stores release their sales flyers in Thanksgiving Day newspapers. You can also go to blackfridayads.com.
• Planning is important - you may have a list of what the grandchildren want.
• Best time to shop - morning. Stores start their Black Friday early that morning after Thanksgiving. 
• Check the papers or the Internet for stores that have “doorbuster” deals on items for customers who arrive when front doors are unlocked. 

http://www.grandparents.com/gp/content/newsoftheday/news/article/black-friday-a-grandparents-guide.html

Home Instead Senior Care Austin - Providing the most trusted elder home health in America! Call us today at (512) 347-9207.

Let us help you keep mom and dad at home!

Holiday activities for senior family members are more fun if they are simple. It’s not necessary to make intricate plans involving your senior family members or to make elaborate ones. Seniors are more interested in keeping to routines. It’s not comforting to them if these routines are interrupted too much.

Here are a few simple holiday activities that seniors enjoy:

• Ask family members and seniors to put together a recipe book oes cook book. Each family member can select their favorite food or recipe. 
• All family members can join in the kitchen and prepare a meal together. 
• A favorite activity for Home Instead to do is put together a family photo album or scrapebook. 
• Take a family drive to look at you local city holiday lights.