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November 9th, 2011 by Ashley Plauche

Caring for the Caregiver

Did you know that 1 in every 4 Americans is providing unpaid care for a friend or family member who is disabled, aged, or ill? These people, called informal family caregivers, do our country a great service and provide an estimated $306 billion of free care each year, saving our Medicare and Medicaid systems tremendously. They are motivated out of love, duty, and responsibility, but the stress can leave them feeling isolated, trapped, and even depressed if they don’t learn how to manage their responsibilities. “Caregiver Burnout” is a significant issue many caregivers struggle with (you can learn more about its symptoms here and here). We need to combat this by caring for the caregiver!

7 Tips for Caregivers

in celebration of National Family Caregivers Month!h

“Caregivers tell me they want to keep their loved ones at home. What caregivers do to make that happen is often heroic and always inspirational. We owe them so much.” –Kathy Greenlee, US Assistant Secretary for Aging.

1. Educate Yourself.

Learn more about who you are as a caregiver and what the person you’re providing care for needs. According to the National Family Caregivers Association, self-identified caregivers are more proactive about seeking resources to assist their care recipient and have increased confidence when talking to healthcare professionals about their loved one’s care. Learn about the resources available to help you and the technologies available to make your role easier. For instance, did you know that the Family & Medical Leave Act allows you to take up to 12 weeks off (unpaid) for care of an immediate family member? To learn more about caregiving, your role, and the resources available to help you, visit the Family Caregivers Alliance, the National Family Caregivers Association, and the National Family Caregivers Support Program.

2. Speak Out.

Don’t silently suffer. Talk to a professional about your caregiving duties and the physical, emotional, and psychological stress you experience. Be honest about what you’re going through and the symptoms you experience. Likewise, don’t be afraid to ask questions on behalf of the one you’re providing care for. It’s also important to openly discuss hard topics like death, independence, driving, funeral plans, and more. Pre-planning helps deal with these difficult issues outside the heat of the moment. Engage the care recipient if his/her cognitive reasoning is still sound and learn their wishes. Bring your family into the fold and share what’s happening and what you need from them.

Here are some great tips on dealing with:

3. Seek Respite.

Get some you time. Have you ever been on a commercial airplane before? If so, you’ve heard the instructions to put on your own oxygen mask before helping the person next to you. Same is true in caregiving. You must take care of yourself so you can take care of another. And part of that is carving out time where you are relieved from your caregiving responsibilities. Spend time with your friends, go on a church retreat, walk around the block, meditate. Whatever it is, separate yourself physical and mentally from your duties of providing care. And remember, this is not a luxury, this a vital component of preventing caregiver burnout. There is nothing to be guilty or ashamed of. If you don’t have a family member or friend who can provide respite care, call your local Office on Aging. Our local agency offers services through Project LIVE and the Senior Companion Program. (I’m on the advisory council for the Senior Companion Program and can attest to the caring and quality individuals that volunteer to help out. Wonderful resource.)

4. Build a Support Team.

Engage family members and friends to share the responsibilities of caregiving. If they offer to help, accept it. Tell them specifically how they can help and what they can do. Supplement their help with paid services from a qualified agency if needed. Personal Support Service Agencies (PSSAs) can provide non-medical care for your loved ones. Tennessee does a great job protecting seniors by mandating that PSSAs are licensed and uphold standards like background checks and training in order to offer services to Tennessee recipients.

5. Connect with Other Caregivers.

Join a support group or check out forums online that connect people across the country that share your experience. To share your experience and learn about others is the best way to help prevent you from feeling isolated. You are not alone. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. You can join Family Caregiver Community to connect with other caregivers and learn valuable insight on caregiving matters. Also consider visiting forums and blogs such as The Caregivers Voice, San Diego Caregiver’s Blog, MS Caregivers Blog, and more provide great insight to the issues caregivers face on a daily basis. *If you have any additional blogs you suggest, e-mail us at advocate(at)lambertshc.com.

Each city will have its own support systems in place, but you can ask your local physician office, hospital, or Office on Aging for a list of various caregiver and bereavement support groups. I also like this site as a helpful tool to locate local support groups and more in your city.

6. Stay Healthy.

Eat healthy meals, get exercise, learn how to lift properly, and get enough sleep. All of that pulling, stretching, and lifting can take a toll on your back and body. Do strength training and eat a variety of vegetables to build strength. Another perk of eating right and exercising? Endorphins. These guys will make your body physically and mentally strong and ready for the day ahead. See our earlier Homecare Advocate Nutrition post for more information on healthy meals you can incorporate into your diet. Keep in mind that our bodies rebuild themselves while we’re asleep, so make it a priority to get your standard 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Getting rest will keep you alert when it counts and minimize your risk of making mistakes with medication and more.

7. Allow Grieving and Healing.

This is undoubtedly a difficult but necessary part of caregiving: letting go. Caregivers are dealing with the loss of a loved one as well as the total change in their own lives as they adjust to life after caregiving. Many caregivers feel torn over their conflicting thoughts of guilt and grief, struggling between “I should’ve…”, “had I only…” and, the quiet relief of the stressful caregiving finally coming to an end. Accept all of these thoughts and feelings. Allow yourself to grieve. Allow yourself to be in this moment but grant yourself permission to grow beyond it. Depression after your caregiving role ends is common, and the healing process takes time. If needed, join a support group that focus on bereavement and help teach how to start life once more after death. Life after death is not a linear path, but little by little, day by day, you will learn how to create a life of purpose and meaning. You will rediscover your identity outside of your former caregiving role, and you will see what beauty lies ahead.

“What we often do not realize is that at the end of human life exists a new beginning, not just for our loved ones but for us as well.”–Caregiver Dorothy Womack.

::AWP::

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September 30th, 2011 by Ashley Plauche

Focus on Home Accessibility at Knoxville Home Remodeling Show

Last weekend we had the pleasure of speaking with people from across East Tennessee to discuss how they could modify their home to make it more accessible for them at the Knoxville Home Remodeling Show. Many family caregivers came by to learn how they can empower their parents to remain in their home safely. We also heard from many of you who are soon realizing that you won’t be able to remain in your home long-term without home modifications like stair lifts to maintain access.

We were grateful for all who came out to hear our seminar Accessibility, the Key to Living in Your Home and want to share with our Homecare Advocate readers 3 key elements to creating an accessible home.

In earlier posts, we talked about the 5 key conversations to have with your physician on how to prevent falls. This truly is the foundation for preventing falls and creating a safe living environment. Secondly, it’s important to look at your physical house layout and to take an assessment of each room. At the Home Remodeling Show we distributed a Home Safety Checklist that you can pick up at either of our stores (or e-mail me at advocate(at)lambertshc.com and I’ll send you one). There are a variety of solutions for your home access needs ranging from easy access door handles to grab bars, from shower stools to walk-in bathtubs, ramps to stair lifts, and so much more. It was such a rewarding weekend to see people’s faces light up as they learn that there are products out there that will truly help them remain in their home and living independently.

After 3 straight days discussing home accessibility with people, a third component became very evident if one is going to create a safe living environment–acknowledging the need. We often found that those who were in greatest need were the very ones who couldn’t accept that they needed it. It was often the family caregiver who was trying to persuade their loved one to incorporate practical home accessibility options into the home, reminding them of the risks they live in each day.

Anais Nin once said, “We don’t see things as they are; we see things as we are.” This was the case for many at-risk individuals who were stuck psychologically seeing adaptive technology as unnecessary or a physical sign of losing independence. Perhaps they didn’t realize how little by little they’d given up on being able to fully use every room and floor of their house. Perhaps they clung to the idea that they were once able to do everything and could still if they moved slowly enough or carefully enough–or they convinced themselves they didn’t really want full accessible living anyway. Whatever it is, these psychological barriers were preventing them from seeing how the opportunities these assistive devices offered to be enablers for independent, healthy living.

We all use devices to empower us, so why are these seen differently?

Think of Peyton Manning for example. He’s one of the greatest athletes of all time, yet he relies on the assistance of cleats to keep him from slipping and falling on the field. He knew what he wanted to do, and he found what he needed to get him there. And look at what’s happened as result! It’s the same with the assistive devices that you’ll use in your home. These products are tools that enable you, enhance your experience, and empower you to live fully, safely, and with confidence as you get to do so much more with greater ease and assurance.

Just think of how many assistive technologies we use every day without a second thought:

Cars to get us to our destinations faster.
Cell phones with reminder calendars to help us keep up with appointments.
Ovens and microwaves to cook our food quickly and evenly instead of cooking over a built fire.
Computers to type and store documents instead of writing everything by hand.

It’s the same thing with assistive technologies like stair lifts to allow you to safely travel from one floor to the next in your house if you have hip/knee/ankle troubles or are at risk of falling. It’s the same thing for walk-in bathtubs to provide a safe, therapeutic bathing experience that relaxes muscle tension, improves circulation, and eases pains of arthritis without worrying about slipping in the bathroom and laying nude as you wait for someone to come pick you up.

So what does it mean to have home accessibility, really?

It’s bathing with dignity and privacy. It’s using the basement again. It’s living in the home you love . It’s peace of mind so that you aren’t constantly worried about a loved one. It’s avoiding rehabilitation after a fall. It’s all of those things and more. Proactive, preventative measures you can take to improve your quality of life.

There ARE options. There IS hope. Seeing our fellow exhibitors at the Home Remodeling Show was proof that there are numerous resources available to you as you look to create a safe living environment that will suit your short- and long-term needs as you grow older. Talk to local companies who specialize in proper lighting on pathways, counters and cabinets that are wheelchair-accessible, barrier-free thresholds, and other access issues you have in your home. Learn from companies like Lambert’s who help troubleshoot problem areas every day from people like you from the community.

Your home is supposed to be a safe haven. A retreat for you, with everything centered around your preferences, style, and needs. But to be these things it must accommodating for you, both for today and tomorrow. I encourage you to look around your house this weekend and evaluate how well it works for you. Sure you can sell your house and move somewhere that has been built with your needs in mind. But most people I talk to prefer to stay where they are, where the walls tell their history like a gently loved, well-worn photo album. AARP did a study revealing that 89% of seniors want to remain in their homes for the rest of their lives. If you’re one of those 89%, look for real solutions. Use the cleats and create the home you grow old in.

::AWP::

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June 21st, 2011 by Ashley Plauche

Fall Prevention Series: Nutrition

If only we could down a can of spinach for instant strength like Popeye! Instead, we have to make a long-term commitment to proper nutrition to keep our body healthy and strong so that we aren’t prone to falls and other injuries. In our fourth and final post on our Fall Prevention series, we’ll explore how minerals, fruits, and vegetables are the superfoods that keep your bones and muscles strong. Read our special recipes rich in these foods at the end!

Making the Most of Minerals

Calcium and Vitamin D are two powerful minerals for fall prevention. Calcium keeps your bones dense and strong, while Vitamin D improves the rate of calcium absorption by your body. These minerals are great tools for fall prevention, but they also help you keep from breaking bones if you do fall.

Calcium: The absorption rate of calcium by your body decreases with age, so it is important to increase the amount of calcium you consume in a day. Up to 70% of older women currently use some sort of calcium supplement to help achieve the recommended daily levels. For men 51 to 70 years of age, 1000mg is the daily recommended amount, increasing to 1200mg at 71 years. Women 51 and older are always recommended to take 1200mg of calcium each day. Inadequate calcium intake can lead to increased risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. Great sources of calcium come from: plain yogurt, cheddar cheese, milk, orange juice, tofu, salmon, fortified cereals and more.

Vitamin D: Even if you consume the proper amount of calcium, your body may not be fully absorbing it if you are deficient in your Vitamin D intake. Proper Vitamin D intake also helps reduce inflammation, prevent rickets, and improve neuromuscular function. While most of Vitamin D comes from exposure to the sun, there are safe alternatives to being in the sun for extended periods of time. Vitamin supplements are utilized by many older Americans; your doctor can help you find the right supplements for you. Adults 51-70 are recommended to get 15 micrograms of Vitamin D each day; this number increases to 20 micrograms at 71 years. Many types of fish, including cod, salmon, mackerel, and tuna have high amounts of Vitamin D. Also consider orange juice, milk, yogurt, and fortified cereals.

Fruits & Veggies

Eating a varied diet of fruits and vegetables help give your body the proper nutrition needed to remain healthy and avoid falls. Carrots, for example, have been recognized for their ability to help improve eyesight, which can help you see your surroundings better and avoid tripping on an object. Dark leafy vegetables like spinach (preferred by Popeyes everywhere) and nutritionally rich soybeans should also be frequent flyers in your meal plan. You should also aim for at least a cup of fruits like avocados, oranges, and berries each day as well.

The 8/8 Rule

You’ve heard it a million times before, but it’s important enough to point out once more: drink eight 8-oz glasses of water each day to stay properly hydrated!

Food for Thought: Recipes rich in fall-preventing foods

Salmon Cakes with Lemon-Caper Yogurt Sauce

Spinach and Tomato Pasta

Citrus Berry Smoothie

::AWP::

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June 8th, 2011 by Ashley Plauche

Fall Prevention Series: 5 Conversations You Should Have with Your Physician

In honor of Home Safety Month, Homecare Advocate is going to do a 4-part series on Fall Prevention. Among those 65 and older, falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits, and the chances of being seriously injured by falling increases significantly with age. According to the CDC, the rate of fall injuries for seniors over 85 is four times that of adults 65-74. “Each year, one in every three adults age 65 and older falls. Falls can lead to moderate to severe injuries, such as hip fractures and head traumas, and can even increase the risk of early death.” However, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent falls.

Today’s lesson? 5 important conversations you need to have with your physician.

1. Previous Falls

Tell your doctor about any previous falls you have had. It is also important to talk about instances where you almost fell. Did a person catch you? Did you grab onto a piece of furniture to steady yourself? For many, a fall or almost-fall can make a person fearful of falling, leading to inactivity or hunching over instead of with good, erect posture. These actions can actually increase the risk of falling over a period of time. Giving your physician information on when/where/how you fell and any psychological fears of falling help with his/her assessment of your situation and help come up with the best plan for you.

2. Health Conditions

Having an open, honest conversation about symptoms and health conditions can also help your physician evaluate your needs. Do you experience:

Trouble balancing when walking
Muscle weakness
Swelling in your ankles/feet
Vision impairments
Difficulty performing activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing)
Sleeping pattern changes
Ear trouble that could affect your equilibrium
Joint pain
Shortness of breath when walking

Symptoms like these may increase your risk of falling. Your physician can help you come up with a plan for managing these conditions so that you aren’t as vulnerable and prone to falling.

3. Medications–prescriptions, over the counter, supplements

Medicines can affect your ability to balance, your alertness, your blood pressure, and more–all of which can make you more prone to falls. Make a list of all of the medications you take and bring the list with you when you visit the doctor. It is important for your physician to know what you are currently taking as he/she considers if any additional prescriptions are needed to treat you. As you write your list, include prescriptions from all of the physicians you see (your primary care physician as well as any specialists), any herbal supplements you take, and all over the counter medicines you self-treat with. (It is a common misconception that over the counter medications do not pose risks like prescription medicines and that they are safe for all people to use. All medicines alter the body in some way and should be included in the list you present to your doctor.) This list can help your doctor identify:

possible side effects
interactions with medicines, foods, drinks
medical conditions that cause problems with use
the proper dosage
alternative medications that may reduce your risks
short- vs. long-term needs

4. Assistive Devices

Your doctor might recommend assistive devices to help you to live independently and move about. In particular, you can talk to your doctor about mobility enhancing devices such as a cane or walker. Depending on your insurance plan, you may qualify for financial help for some mobility products. Your physician can help you evaluate what type of mobility product that would be best for you. Mobility options include(but are not limited to):

Cane (regular cane or quadcane for extra stability)
Walker
Rollator (walker with seat, wheels, & easy-grip breaks)
Wheelchair, manual
Wheelchair, power
Scooter

If your doctor advises you to use a mobility product, it is in your best interest to do so. I’ve had several conversations with our customers throughout the years where they understand their physical need to use the item but are psychologically stuck in the beginning. They worry that it is a sign that they are losing their abilities, that it is unattractive, or that they won’t get used to using it. Working through these psychological issues is necessary because, left unresolved, they could prevent a person from injuring him/herself by not using the product.

Negative Thought: “It’s a sign of losing my abilities” Instead, think about all of the things you will now be able to do and places you can go with the assistance of your mobility product. Whether you’re getting up to answer the phone, shopping for groceries, attending a grandchild’s school play, or exploring the Dogwood Arts Festival, you can do so with greater ease and assurance. Assistive devices empower you to live life fully, safely, and with confidence.

Negative Thought: “It’s unattractive” These products have come a long way in recent years. Now, you can get floral canes, colorful rollators, and even plaid wheelchairs! Adding thoughtful consideration to the aesthetic look of a product has made a huge difference in our customers’ perception of what it means to use these products.

Negative Thought: “I’ll never get used to it” One of the key benefits of coming into a specialty medical equipment store is that there are professionally trained staff to measure you and help you pick out the most appropriate product. There, they take extra time to thoroughly explain the product and how it is to be used. Try using it in the stores and talk to the staff about any concerns you have. You should feel confident in your ability to use the product by the time you leave the store.

5. Exercise

Before beginning any physical exercise program, you should always consult with your physician. Talk to your doctor about possible activities, such as walking, water workouts, or tai chi. The next post in our Fall Prevention series will go into greater details of exercise opportunities to consider adding to your daily routine.

Your doctor and other health care professionals care for your well being and can offer great medical insight to the cause of your falls and ways to avoid falling. Depending on your situation, you may want to talk to your pharmacist, optometrist, podiatrist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist, among others. Proactive measures like an annual eye exam, using assistive devices, and monitoring the effects of medication all help reduce your risk of falling.

:: AWP ::

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7 Tips for Caregivers

Focus on Home Accessibility at Knoxville Home Remodeling Show

Fall Prevention Series: Nutrition

Fall Prevention Series: 5 Conversations You Should Have with Your Physician

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