Category: aging in place

Beyond Retirement: A Guide to Purposeful & Healthy Senior Living

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Starting over in a new city presents a blend of challenges and opportunities for a purposeful and healthy senior living, especially for senior citizens. It’s a phase that demands resilience but also paves the way for growth and new beginnings. With thoughtful preparation and a positive mindset, navigating this significant change can lead to a rewarding experience. This Polish Care Services guide offers strategic advice to ensure a smooth transition, empowering you to establish a vibrant and fulfilling life in your new locale.

Knowing the Area

Before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to have a deep understanding of your future home. Evaluate the cost of living, healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and the proximity to family and friends. This groundwork will not only assist in making an informed decision  on senior living but also in setting realistic expectations. By prioritizing what’s most crucial, you can find a place that aligns with your lifestyle and needs, ensuring a smoother adjustment to your new surroundings.

Finding Employment 

For those looking to remain active in the workforce, securing employment beforehand offers financial stability and a sense of purpose. It connects you to the community and provides a routine, making the transition to a new environment less overwhelming.

Investigate job opportunities that cater to your skills and interests, and leverage professional networks to facilitate your job search. This proactive approach can significantly ease your integration into the city’s social and economic fabric.

Changing Your Lifestyle

Embarking on a fresh chapter of life frequently prompts a reevaluation of personal habits, especially regarding alcohol consumption. For individuals who have turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism, connecting with local rehabilitation centers is a crucial step toward a more healthful life.

Knowing how to seek recovery help is critical as you navigate through this new journey. Just be sure to research different facilities’ treatments, costs, and reviews before proceeding; some places offer free services if you have health insurance.

Getting More Social

Building a new social network is pivotal for feeling connected and supported in your senior living journey and lifestyle. Engage in clubs, groups, or organizations that reflect your interests, be it a book club, a gardening group, or a volunteer project. These platforms offer opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. This social engagement is vital for emotional well-being, helping you to feel part of the community and reducing feelings of isolation.

Exploring the City

Immersing yourself in the city’s culture and environment is a delightful way to feel more at home. Take the time to explore different neighborhoods, visit landmarks, and enjoy local cuisine. This exploration not only acquaints you with the area but also allows you to discover new favorites and routines. It’s a fun and engaging way to connect with your new city, turning unfamiliar places into familiar haunts.

Connecting with Loved Ones

Maintaining relationships with family and friends is essential during this transition. Regular communication through calls, messages, and visits keeps you grounded and provides emotional support. These connections remind you of the continuity in your life, bridging the gap between your past and present. They play a critical role in your adaptation process, offering encouragement and a listening ear when you need it most.

Seeking New Experiences

Be open to new experiences and adventures that the city has to offer. Whether it’s participating in cultural events, starting a new hobby, or enrolling in classes, these activities enrich your life and expand your horizons. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected joys and learning, making your relocation not just a change of address but a journey of personal growth.

Staying Healthy and Well

Finally, remember the importance of self-care. Prioritize activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health. Whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or enjoying nature, taking time for yourself is crucial. It ensures you remain energized and balanced, able to embrace and enjoy your new environment fully.

Conclusion

Relocating to a new city in your senior years is a significant milestone that offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. By approaching this transition with preparation, openness, and a focus on well-being, you can build a fulfilling life full of new experiences and connections.

This journey is not just about moving to a new place but about rediscovering yourself and what makes you thrive. Embrace the adventure with an open heart, and let your new city be the canvas for your next great chapter.

Credit: June Duncan

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Healing Power of Meditation: Enhancing Well-being for the Elderly

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Aging in Place: Transform Homes for Senior Services & Home Care 

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As the population continues to age, more and more seniors are expressing their desire to age in place – to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their homes as they grow older. However, to facilitate this, it is crucial to make homes more accessible and adaptable for the unique needs of seniors. By incorporating senior services and home care into the very design and modifications of their homes, we can create spaces that not only meet their current needs but also support their independence, safety, and overall well-being. In this blog, we will explore various strategies and modifications that can transform homes into accessible and senior-friendly environments, promoting comfortable and joyful aging in place. 

Assessing Current Needs 

To begin the process of making a home more accessible for seniors, a thorough assessment of their specific needs is essential. This can involve consulting with professionals, such as occupational therapists or geriatric care managers, who can provide valuable insights based on their expertise. Understanding the physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities of the seniors will help determine the areas that require modification for improved accessibility. 

Ensure Safety and Mobility  

Safety should be a top priority when adapting a home for aging in place. Installing sturdy handrails along staircases and in bathrooms, securing loose rugs, and eliminating tripping hazards should be initial steps. Widening doorways and hallways to accommodate mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs is crucial. Installing non-slip flooring in high-risk areas, such as bathrooms, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, well-placed and bright lighting throughout the house is essential for seniors with visual impairments. 

Bedroom and Bathroom Modifications  

Bedrooms and bathrooms are two areas that require careful consideration when adapting homes for seniors. Bedrooms can be modified by ensuring a comfortable mattress of appropriate height, installing grab bars near the bed, and arranging furniture to allow for unobstructed movement. Adequate lighting and strategically placed nightlights can further enhance safety. 

Bathrooms pose specific challenges for seniors due to slippery surfaces and limited maneuverability. Installing grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub can provide much-needed support. A walk-in shower or a seated shower with handheld fixtures can offer convenience and safety. Non-slip mats and contrasting colors to define edges are additional modifications that can make bathrooms safer. 

Kitchen and Dining Area Modifications 

The kitchen is often the heart of a home, and making it more accessible can empower seniors in their daily routines. Lowering countertops and cabinets, installing pull-out shelves and Lazy Susans, and replacing traditional knobs with lever-style handles can reduce strain and enhance accessibility. Installing appliances at appropriate heights and incorporating tactile markings on dials can also facilitate independent cooking. 

 In the dining area, potential modifications can include using chairs with armrests for stability, providing ergonomic utensils, and ensuring adequate lighting for ease of dining. 

Technological Solutions 

Advancements in technology offer exciting opportunities to enhance accessibility for seniors aging in place. Smart home technologies, such as voice-activated assistants and automated lighting systems, can make controlling various aspects of the home easier for seniors with mobility or cognitive challenges. Telehealth devices and wearable monitoring systems enable remote healthcare services, ensuring timely interventions in case of emergencies. 

Conclusion 

Creating homes that are more accessible for seniors is not only about physical modifications but also about promoting emotional well-being and independence. By incorporating senior services and home care into the very fabric of the home, we can empower seniors to live fulfilling lives in their cherished spaces. From assessing current needs to ensuring safety, mobility, and comfort, modifications such as widening doorways, installing grab bars, and incorporating technological solutions can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors aging in place. As society continues to recognize the importance of elderly individuals’ active participation, it is our responsibility to create inclusive environments that allow them to thrive gracefully. Let us embrace the concept of aging in place and strive to make every home a sanctuary where senior citizens can find solace, security, and lasting happiness. 

Credit: Kasia Sutkowski for Polish Care Services Senior Services Division 

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Prevent Falls in the Elderly: 9 Tips for Safety and Independence 

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Falls among the elderly can have devastating consequences, leading to serious injuries, reduced mobility, and a loss of independence. Fortunately, with proper awareness and a few preventive measures, falls can often be avoided. In this blog, we will explore nine vital strategies to help elderly individuals stay safe, maintain their health, and live an active, independent lifestyle. 

1. Keep homes clutter-free and well lit:

A primary cause of falls is tripping over objects scattered throughout the house. Clearing pathways of any loose rugs, cords, or furniture can significantly reduce this risk. Adequate lighting is crucial, especially in staircases, hallways, and frequently used areas. Consider installing automatic nightlights to help navigate safely during the night. 

2. Install grab bars and handrails:

Installing grab bars in bathrooms, along stairways, and near entryways provides the elderly with necessary support and stability. Reinforce existing handrails or install new ones to ensure a secure grip when using stairs or moving between rooms, thus minimizing the risk of falls. 

3. Promote regular exercise and physical activity:

Engaging in regular exercises tailored to the elderly’s abilities can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Such exercises can improve muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. Encourage activities like walking, yoga, and tai chi, which are known to improve balance and overall stability. 

4. Evaluate medication side effects:

Certain medications may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired balance, increasing the risk of falls. Encourage the elderly to consult with their healthcare providers regularly to reassess medication side effects. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and seek professional advice before making any changes. 

5. Encourage regular eye and foot care:

Diminishing eyesight and foot problems can contribute to fall incidents. Encourage elderly individuals to have regular eye exams to maintain good vision. Assist them in wearing appropriate, well-fitting footwear that provides necessary support and reduces the risk of trips and falls. 

6. Create a safe bathroom environment:

The bathroom is a common location for falls. Implementing simple modifications can significantly enhance safety. Consider installing non-slip mats, shower seats, and adjustable handheld showerheads. Use bathmats with suction grips and install a commode chair if needed. 

7. Review and adapt living spaces as needed:

Evaluate living spaces for potential hazards and adapt accordingly. This may include installing ramps or handrails for easier access, removing threshold barriers, or rearranging furniture to create clear pathways. The aim is to eliminate obstacles and ensure a safe and convenient living environment. 

8. Support regular health check-ups:

Regular health check-ups can help identify underlying medical conditions that may contribute to falls, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, or diabetes. Encourage elderly family members to keep their medical appointments and ensure they receive appropriate medical attention to mitigate potential fall risks. 

9. Promote the use of assistive devices:

Assistive devices, such as canes, walkers, or non-slip footwear, can offer an extra layer of stability and reduce the likelihood of falls. Encourage their regular use and ensure devices are properly fitted and adjusted individually to ensure maximum support and effectiveness. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is essential for their overall safety, independence, and quality of life. By implementing these nine preventive strategies, we can create environments that support the elderly and minimize their risks. Encouraging regular exercise, decluttering living spaces, and making appropriate modifications can all contribute significantly to fall prevention. By taking these steps, we can empower our elderly loved ones to lead active, fulfilling lives while reducing the concern of falls and related injuries. 

Polish Care Services provides flexibility in offering live in and hourly non-medical personal assistants or caregivers, as homemakers and companions, and provide live in and hourly services to help keep seniors and disabled safe in their homes. Contact us to learn how we can assist. 

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58 Ways To Keep Seniors Safe In Their Home

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Many seniors prefer to live independently in their own homes for the comfort, satisfaction of familiarity and self-reliance; however, this can also pose some risks and challenges. To ensure their safety and comfort in their home, here are 58 ways that can help seniors stay safe in their homes:

– Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and test them regularly.

– Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and other areas where fires may occur.

– Avoid using candles, matches, or lighters near flammable materials or curtains.

– Replace frayed or damaged cords and plugs of electrical appliances and devices.

– Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets or extension cords.

– Turn off appliances and devices when not in use or before going to bed.

– Keep a flashlight and extra batteries in an accessible location in case of a power outage.

– Install grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom, especially near the bathtub, shower, and toilet.

– Use a shower chair or bench if standing for long periods is difficult or risky.

– Adjust the water heater temperature to prevent scalding or burns.

– Keep medications in their original containers and store them in a cool, dry, and secure place.

– Dispose of expired or unused medications properly and safely.

– Follow the instructions and dosages of your medications and supplements carefully and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

– Use a pill organizer or dispenser to help you remember when to take your medications and supplements.

– Keep a list of your medications, allergies, medical conditions, and emergency contacts in your wallet or purse and on your refrigerator door.

– Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace if you have a chronic or serious condition that may require immediate attention.

– Keep a first aid kit stocked with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essentials in an accessible location.

– Seek medical attention promptly if you experience any signs or symptoms of a stroke, heart attack, infection, or other serious condition.

– Schedule regular check-ups and screenings with your doctor and dentist and follow their recommendations for preventive care and treatment.

– Get vaccinated against seasonal flu, pneumonia, shingles, COVID-19, and other diseases that may affect seniors more severely.

– Eat a balanced and nutritious diet that meets your dietary needs and preferences.

– Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.

– Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, salt, sugar, and processed foods that may affect your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, or weight.

– Take vitamin D and calcium supplements to support your bone health and prevent osteoporosis.

– Exercise regularly to maintain your strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. Choose activities that you enjoy and are suitable for your fitness level and abilities.

– Consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program or changing your existing one.

– Warm up before exercising and cool down after exercising to prevent injuries or soreness.

– Wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and equipment when exercising.

– Avoid exercising outdoors when the weather is too hot, cold, humid, or polluted.

– Stay indoors or seek shade when the UV index is high to prevent sunburns or skin cancer.

– Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and protective clothing when exposed to the sun.

– Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke that may increase your risk of lung cancer, COPD, heart disease, stroke, and other conditions.

– Manage your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, or massage.

– Seek professional help if you experience any signs or symptoms of depression, anxiety, dementia, or other mental health issues.

– Stay socially connected with your family, friends, neighbors, community groups, clubs, or organizations that share your interests and hobbies.

– Use technology such as phone calls, video calls, emails, text messages, social media, or online platforms to communicate with your loved ones and access information and services.

– Learn new skills or pursue new hobbies that challenge your mind and keep you engaged and stimulated.

– Play games or do puzzles that improve your memory, concentration, logic, or creativity.

– Read books or magazines that expand your knowledge or entertain you.

– Watch movies or shows that make you laugh or inspire you.

– Listen to music or podcasts that soothe you or motivate you.

– Keep a journal or diary that helps you express your thoughts and feelings.

– Volunteer for a cause or organization that aligns with your values and passions.

– Adopt a pet or plant that provides you with companionship and responsibility.

– Review your finances and budget and plan for your future needs and goals.

– Seek advice from a financial planner, lawyer, or accountant if you need help with managing your money, assets, or taxes.

– Update your will and estate plan and inform your family or beneficiaries of your wishes.

– Review your insurance policies and coverage and make any changes or adjustments as needed.

– Declutter your home and belongings and donate, sell, or discard anything that you no longer need or use.

– Organize your home and belongings and label, store, or display them in a way that makes them easy to find and access.

– Make your home more accessible and comfortable by installing ramps, rails, lifts, or other devices that help you move around or reach things.

– Make your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly by using LED bulbs, smart thermostats, solar panels, or other products that reduce your electricity consumption or carbon footprint.

– Make your home more secure and safe by installing locks, alarms, cameras, or other systems that deter intruders or alert you of any threats.

– Hire a professional or ask a friend or family member to help you with any home repairs, maintenance, or improvement projects that you cannot do yourself.

– Consider hiring a caregiver, housekeeper, gardener, chef, homemaker or companion or other service provider to help you with any personal care, household chores, or other tasks that you need assistance with.

– Consider using a delivery service, online shopping, or curbside pickup to order groceries, meals, medications, or other items that you need or want.

– Consider using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxi services to get around if you do not drive or have a car.

– Consider joining a senior center, assisted living facility, or retirement community if you need more social interaction, support, or care.

This is an extensive list to ensure the safety of seniors in their home, some of which may have already been utilized however there are additions help to enhance the safety of our loved ones. Please call Polish Care Services for in home care assistance for seniors.

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How to Help Your Elderly Parents Age in Place

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Many older adults prefer to stay in their own homes as they age, rather than move to a senior living facility or another location. This is known as age in place, and it can have many benefits for seniors, such as maintaining their independence, comfort, and familiarity. However, aging in place also comes with some challenges and risks, such as safety hazards, isolation, and health issues. If you have elderly parents who want to age in place, you may wonder how you can support them and ensure their well-being. Here are some tips and resources to help you help your parents age in place successfully and safely.

Assess their needs and abilities

The first step to helping your parents age in place is to assess their current and future needs and abilities. You can do this by observing how they perform their daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, and managing their medications. You can also talk to their doctors about their health conditions and how they may affect their functioning and quality of life. Based on this assessment, you can identify the areas where your parents may need some assistance or modifications to continue living at home.

Make their home safe and accessible

One of the most important aspects of aging in place is making sure that your parents’ home is safe and accessible for them. This may involve some home modifications or repairs, such as installing grab bars, ramps, handrails, nonslip mats, smoke detectors, and emergency alert systems. You can also declutter their home and remove any tripping hazards, such as loose rugs, cords, or furniture. You can find more tips on how to make your home safe and accessible while aging in place here.

Hire professional caregivers or services

Depending on your parents’ needs and preferences, you may want to hire some professional caregivers or services to help them with some tasks or provide some companionship. For example, you can hire a personal service attendant to assist your parents with bathing, dressing, grooming, or toileting. You can also hire a home health nurse to provide medical care, such as wound care, injections, or blood pressure monitoring. You can also hire a homemaker to help with household chores, such as cleaning, laundry, or grocery shopping, a companion to be a friend, conversation and play games your loved one likes. You can also hire a meal delivery service to bring nutritious meals to your parents’ home.

Build a network of support

Another key factor for successful aging in place is having a strong network of support for your parents. This network can include family members, friends, neighbors, volunteers, or community organizations that can provide emotional, social, or practical support for your parents. For example, you can ask your relatives or friends to check on your parents regularly or help them with some errands. You can also encourage your parents to join a senior center or a faith group where they can socialize and participate in activities. You can also connect your parents with some resources and organizations that can offer them assistance or guidance on various issues related to aging in place. You can find more information on how to build a network of support for aging in place here.

Plan for the future

Finally, it is important to plan for the future as your parents age in place. This means having honest and respectful conversations with your parents about their wishes and expectations for their care and living arrangements as they get older. It also means preparing the necessary legal and financial documents that can protect your parents’ rights and interests in case they become incapacitated or pass away. These documents may include a will, a power of attorney, a health care proxy, an advance directive, and a living trust. You can find more information on how to plan for the future as you age in place here.

Aging in place can be a rewarding and fulfilling option for many seniors who want to stay in their own homes as they grow older. However, it also requires some planning and preparation to ensure that they are safe, comfortable, and happy. By following these tips and using these resources, you can help your elderly parents age in place successfully and safely.

Polish Care Services agency can help with assigning live in and hourly personal services attendant to assist with ensuring quality of life while your loved ones enjoy home. Please contact 860-255-8278 in Connecticut and 941-212-0310 in Florida to see how they can assist.

Credit: Vanessa Hoffman

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AI Benefits for the Elderly and Disabled

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Although there is so much consternation and hype, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can benefit the elderly and disabled population in many ways. Some of the benefits include:

1. Health monitoring and assistance through wearable devices and smart home systems: AI can be used to monitor the health of elderly individuals through wearable devices and smart home systems. These devices can track vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, and alert caregivers or medical professionals if there are any concerning changes. Smart home systems can also be used to monitor the movements and activities of elderly individuals, providing an additional layer of safety and security.
2. Medication management: AI can assist with medication management by providing reminders to take medications, tracking medication usage, and alerting caregivers or medical professionals if there are any missed doses or potential drug interactions.
3. Social interaction and companionship: AI can provide social interaction and companionship to elderly individuals through virtual companions, such as chatbots or virtual assistants. These companions can engage in conversation, provide entertainment, and help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
4. Cognitive stimulation and memory support: AI can provide cognitive stimulation and memory support to elderly individuals through games, puzzles, and other activities designed to exercise the brain and improve cognitive function. AI can also assist with memory support by providing reminders for important events or appointments.
5. Daily living assistance: AI can assist with daily living tasks, such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care. This can help elderly individuals maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes for longer.
6. Increased independence: By providing assistance with daily living tasks, health monitoring, medication management, and other areas, AI can help elderly individuals maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes for longer.
7. Lower healthcare costs, better transportation, and longer employment: AI can help lower healthcare costs by improving health monitoring and early detection of potential health issues. AI can also assist with transportation by providing ride-sharing services or autonomous vehicles designed for elderly individuals. Additionally, AI can help extend employment opportunities for elderly individuals by providing job-matching services or remote work opportunities.
8. Virtual companions: As mentioned earlier, virtual companions such as chatbots or virtual assistants can provide social interaction and companionship to elderly individuals.
9. Anti-aging research: AI can assist with anti-aging research by analyzing large amounts of data to identify potential treatments or preventative measures for age-related diseases.
10. At-home health monitoring: As mentioned earlier, AI can assist with at-home health monitoring through wearable devices and smart home systems.
11. Smart device-assisted daily living: Smart devices equipped with AI technology can assist with daily living tasks such as turning on lights, adjusting the thermostat, or locking doors.
12. Smart device-assisted fall detection: Smart devices equipped with AI technology can detect if an elderly individual has fallen and alert caregivers or medical professionals.
13. Improved quality of care: By providing assistance in areas such as health monitoring, medication management, daily living assistance, and more, AI can help improve the overall quality of care for elderly individuals.

AI is also helpful in intelligent tracking of biometric information to early diagnosis of diseases, understanding the treatment pathways, and helping clinicians to take care of elderly and disabled people and treat them more efficiently.

Polish Care Services team provides blogs and news articles that are not only informative and entertaining, but can enhance the wellbeing of seniors and disabled in Connecticut and Sarasota County in Florida

Credit: Bing AI, Google AI, Peter Powell

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The Benefits of a Caregiver Agency

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Caregiving is a rewarding but challenging job that requires compassion, patience, and skill. Many people who need assistance with daily living tasks, such as seniors, people with disabilities, or people recovering from illnesses or injuries, prefer to receive care at home rather than in a facility. However, finding and hiring a reliable, qualified, and affordable caregiver can be difficult and time-consuming for families. That is why many families choose to work with a caregiver agency, which can offer many benefits over hiring an independent caregiver.

A caregiver agency is a registered business that employs caregivers and sends them to the home of the care recipient to provide in-home care. The agency can provide medical care or non-medical care, depending on the needs and preferences of the client. The agency also takes care of the administrative aspects of hiring and managing the caregivers, such as background checks, payroll, scheduling, training, and supervision.

Some of the benefits of hiring a caregiver through an agency are:

• Quality: an agency typically will verify caregivers’ credentials, certifications, and experience in addition to performing background checks. An agency will provide continuous training and development to ensure caregivers and office staff are up to date with current skills and practices This ensures that the caregivers are qualified, competent, and up-to-date on the best practices and standards of care.
• Safety: Agencies are responsible for ensuring that the caregivers follow safety protocols when providing care at home. They provide workers compensation and liability insurance for their employees. This protects clients and caregivers in case of accident and work-related injuries.
• Flexibility: Agencies can offer a range of services and schedules to suit the needs and preferences of different clients. They can provide non-medical and other services that may suit the clients needs. Whether it is hourly services, live in assistance, long term or temporary services, The agency will match the caregiver that is considered a best fit for the client based on personality, skills, experience and availability.
• Reliability: Agencies will have a pool of caregivers who is able to cover desired shift or back up assistance in case of emergencies or absences. This means that the client will always have someone to provide care at home without interruption or inconvenience. They can also manage issues or complaints that may arise between the client and the caregivers.
• Support: Agencies can provide additional support and resources for both the client and the family. They can help to coordinate other services or referrals such as medical appointments, social activities, transportation, equipment. They can also provide emotional support and guidance for the client and family members who are involved in caregiving.

In conclusion, hiring a caregiver through an agency can offer many benefits for both the client and the family. It can ensure quality, safety, flexibility, reliability, and support for in-home care. It can also save time and hassle for families who are looking for a trustworthy and affordable caregiver. Therefore, working with an agency can be a smart choice for families who need help with caregiving at home.

Polish Care Services is a Homemaker Companion agency registered in Connecticut and Florida that provides support services for seniors and disabled, whether it is live in services, hourly support, or overnight assistance. The supportive office team works with the client to find a match for their needs and is a constant support for the client and staff throughout the process.

Credit: Madeline Sinatro

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Resources to Help Seniors Who Have Few Relatives Nearby

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Aging brings many challenges as well as joys. While it’s generally good fortune to have a long life, it’s even better if you have family nearby to offer help and companionship. Sometimes, seniors live far from family, though. In these cases, Polish Care Services suggests you make use of the following resources for managing daily life.

Maintaining a Social Life

Loneliness can be a risk factor for health issues, and we all need companionship. Here are some ideas to help seniors develop and maintain social connections.

• Consider volunteering. After all, seniors can and do contribute an enormous amount by tutoring, mentoring, helping prepare or distribute food to those in need, fundraising, assisting with tax preparation, or working the polls during elections.
• Take a class. Post-retirement is a wonderful time to pursue interests you may not have had time for while working. Whether it’s a non-credit history or language class at the local university, or a dance or crafting class at a community center, you’ll meet others with common interests and get to explore something you enjoy.
• Take a part-time job. Although not everyone is eager to return to the nine to five grind, sometimes working a few hours a week can enhance a senior’s life by providing social connections, as well as the satisfaction of contributing effort to an important cause.
• Join a church, mosque, temple, or other organization that supports your spiritual beliefs. If you’re already a member, look into getting more involved there. It’s a great way to get to know others who share your values.

Health and Wellness

Good health is important to people at every age, and there are always things a person can do to increase their chances of staying well.

• Join an exercise class. The connection between exercise and improved mental health has been documented increasingly over the past decade. Many forms of exercise are appropriate for seniors, ranging from swimming to no impact aerobics and gentle weight training.
• Consider a mind-body practice, such as tai chi, qi gong, yoga, or mindfulness walking. These disciplines can improve cognitive functioning as well balance, strength, range of motions, and stress relief.
• Get an exercise or healthy eating buddy. Having another person counting on you can help with motivation and increase fun, whether you’re cooking a healthy meal together or meeting for a walk.
• Laughter is good medicine. It can increase the release of endorphins, and alter serotonin and dopamine levels in the body. Whether it’s a funny movie, a cartoon in a magazine, a hilarious book, or a podcast, finding reasons to laugh can make life more healthy, as well as more fun. This is yet another activity best done with a buddy.

Financial Assistance is Available

Most people worry to some degree about running out of money, managing money, or calculating and paying taxes in a timely and accurate manner. There are many local, state, and federal programs to help with planning and managing financial concerns.

• Help with the cost of prescriptions can be found via the Extra Help program through Medicare in some states. Other states have their own programs.
• Seniors and all adults may experience stress when faced with financial and other types of decisions.
• The IRS sponsors free tax help clinics for seniors. These can be quite helpful since many seniors have complex situations involving pensions, IRAs, or pre-death insurance benefits. Having free help from an expert can make the challenge of tax preparation less daunting.

Use Technology to your Advantage

While it’s difficult to visit in person fr

equently, if you live a great distance from your loved one, the internet can be a great help. Using Google Meet, Webex, Zoom, or another online program you can be in touch with family members who live almost anywhere. The internet is also a good way to shop, learn, and connect with others.

• Take some time to make sure your loved one is comfortable using the internet. Sometimes technology classes for seniors can be helpful, as well as social opportunities.
• Click for info on a useful tool for combining digital documents for your loved one so that they’re easier to find.
• Having a weekly online call with your senior loved one is a great way to stay in touch, share family news, and monitor how they are doing. While “Zoom fatigue” is something that happens to people of all ages, there are ways to counter it.
• Although an online meeting is better than no connection, it’s important to supplement it with ordinary phone calls, letters via email or US mail, and the occasional in-person visit.

Although living near the senior you care about is the easiest way to stay in touch and be of help, there are many resources for those who are at a distance. Make sure that you keep your loved one in the loop when making decisions that will affect them, and take advantage of the many programs and options available.

For exceptional services for seniors, those with disabilities, and those needing companionship, visit Polish Care Services today.

Credit: June Duncan

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Types of Care Options for Seniors: Long Term Care Option

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What is Long Term Care?

Long-term care is comprised of a wide range of support services provided over an extended time period. Long-term care is not limited solely to the elderly. Forty three percent of individuals requiring this are younger than 65 years old, this may also include disabled young adults. The majority of recipients of this care are 65 years of age and older.

It can be temporary or permanent. However, this depends upon the underlying reason for the care.

Temporary long-term care (weeks or months) may include:

• Recovery from an injury or illness
• Rehabilitation after a surgical procedure
• Rehabilitation after a hospital stay
• End of life medical services

Reason for permanent (on-going) long-term care (months and years) can include:

• Chronic medical conditions
• Chronic severe pain
• Need for supervision
• Permanent disabilities
• Need for assistance with activities of daily living
• Muscular impairment caused by Parkinson’s
• Cognitive impairment which may cause brain injury, Alzheimer’s or Dementia.

Long-term care need may be instantaneous, examples are, after a car accident, a heart attack or stroke. However, the care need increases gradually, as individuals age and become more frail or as disability or an illness worsens.

Although there are advanced studies, It is difficult to predict who will need long-term care and the duration of care needs, there are several factors that increase the risk of the need for long-term care

• As individuals age, they become more frail
• Women generally live longer, and often need long-term care for a periods twice as long as men.
• An individual’s risk increases with poor diet and lack of exercise, lifestyle and habits,
• Health and family history also plays a vital role.

Categories and Levels

Most long-term care falls into the category of personal or custodial care, rather than medical or skilled care. Personal care provides assistance with what is generally referred to as activities of daily living and/or provides for the supervision of an individual who is cognitively impaired.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) include the normal activities necessary to live at home. These personal care activities generally fall into four category types:

• Meal Preparation includes the planning and preparation of meals
• Household Chores includes routine tasks necessary for the upkeep of a home such as cleaning, laundry and yard maintenance
• Personal Hygiene includes bathing, grooming, dressing and toileting
• Errands and Transportation includes driving and shopping assistance

It’s easy to take being able to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) for granted until you or family member experiences a chronic or degenerative condition and can no longer accomplish these tasks alone.

There are four different levels or frequency of care Long-term care:

• Occasional assistance is performed a few times a month
• Minimal assistance may only be needed two to three times per week
• Significant assistance may be needed as often as five times per week
• Maximum assistance might be needed daily.

In-Home Care

Long-term care in the home is often provided by care providers or caregivers who may be enlisted to provide housekeeping, personal care and other functions to enhance the quality of life for the individual.

Long-Term Care Insurance

With the increasing costs of this care, this insurance may be the best way to ensure as you or your loved one get older, your long-term care needs are met and your assets are protected.

Polish Care Services provides trained and experienced caregivers to assist seniors or disabled in their home or care facilities. Call 860-255-8278 to see how our Polish Care Services caregivers can assist you or your loved one. long term care insurance options for seniors

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