January 23, 2023

Due to the growing geriatric population worldwide, I decided to limit my practice of dentistry to the elderly and frail who are homebound. I have been practicing geriatric house-call dentistry for almost 35 years. Similarly, I have decided to share my expertise with caregivers to provide the necessary quality care to this underserved population.

With advanced training in geriatrics, hospice care, and all forms of dementia and Parkinson’s Disease, my goal is to triage the situation to ensure the patient is receiving proper nutrition for their overall health and to ensure that they are not having any pain stemming from their teeth or ill-fitting dentures.

Recently, I have solved the issue of how to treat these patients and revolutionized the field of home health care dentistry with my geriatric dental consulting practice. I want to share my expertise so that caregivers are more confident in daily oral care whether it is with brushing, flossing, using picks, or removing and cleaning full or partial dentures.

Individuals with Teeth

If you are the caregiver for your aging loved one or the other individual, you have a multitude of daily chores that are necessary to keep their quality of life up to par. You need to wash, toilet, and feed them daily. You also want to keep them stimulated so that they have something to look forward to every day. That is your responsibility. Life needs to continue, and everyone deserves to live their best lives.

One thing you do on your own since childhood is wake up and brush your teeth. And the last thing you do before going to bed is to brush and, hopefully, floss your teeth. So why can’t we continue this daily routine forever?

Because this is one of the first chores neglected when, unfortunately, dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease occurs. And it isn’t easy to brush when you aren’t brushing your very own teeth and perhaps the person isn’t cooperating. There are other diseases like Parkinson’s and ALS that make it difficult for individuals to brush effectively on their own.

Tools to Brush Their Teeth

• The Sponge – The sponge lollipop tool (usually used in the hospital) to clean the patient’s gums who have no teeth. Note: Only use this to clean the soft tissues in the mouth of those who have no teeth.
• Baby Toothbrush –The same toothbrush used on babies is effective yet gentle enough to use on the elderly.
• Adult Toothbrush – Always look for a toothbrush with extremely soft bristles like the baby toothbrush. And choose one where the toothbrush head has a cushion – called a tongue scraper – against the hard plastic in case they accidentally bite on it. You don’t want them to bite down and crack a tooth or break a filling.

How To Properly Brush Their Teeth

• You MUST brush their teeth every day, twice a day.
• Position the toothbrush so that the first row of bristles are touching below the gum line. There is a small “pocket” between your tooth and gum (you can feel that area in your own mouth with a toothpick) that needs to be cleaned. This is what prevents gum disease, also referred to as gingivitis (inflammation or the redness you see at the gum line that scares you when they bleed) that eventually progresses to periodontitis (gums bleed, teeth become mobile then painful and eventually fall out).
• Brush teeth twice a day and use soft picks (if they allow) for food caught between teeth or under bridges. Flossing should be done but not if they don’t allow (you don’t want to get bitten). The individual floss swords are great, and I recommend them for those who allow you to help them. If they are grinding or physically hurting themselves by biting or sucking their cheek or lip, a dental evaluation is necessary so that this behavior can be modified to prevent further damage.
• You may or may not be able to incorporate a mouthwash or fluoride rinse. Remember: as soon as they start to swallow these, you MUST discontinue the products that cannot be swallowed and switch to those that can.
• Don’t stop brushing if you see the gums bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse (or perhaps they are on blood thinners), you must check with a dentist.
• Before dementia progresses, take a full set of X-rays. If you have already experienced progression, have the newest ones taken from your last dentist visit. Either have them sent to you digitally or pick them up for safekeeping.

It’s important to brush even when it is difficult. Freedom from tooth pain or gum disease improves the quality of life and keeps chewing and swallowing status quo. Food caught between the teeth is painful, and we use floss or picks when it happens to us. As a caregiver, you need to be proactive and help with this chore if you notice the individual picking at their teeth after a meal.

It saddens me to hear from the caregiver or family member the same story over and over again… the individual took impeccable care of their teeth diligently brushing, flossing, and six-month visits to the hygienist and dentist. Now they can’t do anything themselves and their mouth is FALLING APART! Please help! Hopefully, this guide to oral care will help you in caring for the oral health of your aging loved one.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals aim to help you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

February 6, 2023

Caring for an edentulous patient – that is, a patient who lacks teeth – may sound like an easy task, but if they have some form of dementia, it can be extremely difficult.

If the person you care for wears dentures or partial dentures, you must remove and clean the dentures at night, storing them safely in a see-through glass or specified denture case. Dentures are extremely expensive to replace and very difficult to re-fabricate on a patient with dementia. It’s not easy for any elderly patient to get comfortable with a new prosthetic device and almost impossible for a patient with dementia.

If dentures are lost, that patient’s ability to eat, especially foods they enjoy, becomes compromised. So here are some important reminders about dentures:

• Do not wrap dentures in napkins or paper towels. People throw out and lose most dentures this way.
• Remove dentures from someone is sick. I’ve replaced many dentures that were flushed down the toilet after vomiting.
• Remove dentures from the patient before getting into an ambulance. When in crisis mode, oral health and dentures may not be top of mind, but remember the emergency medical team and first responders have one job only – to keep the individual experiencing a health crisis alive. Things happen quickly and they will remove the dentures (full or partial) if they need to.

Regarding ambulances and hospital stays:  Ambulances are NOT responsible for lost dentures, but hospitals ARE responsible. Regardless, it is best to keep the dentures safe and not need replacements. Take them out and store them somewhere safe. This also applies to partial dentures.

Treat dentures like valuable jewelry. Would you bring your diamonds to the hospital? No, you would remove them for sure. Dentures are even more important and much more difficult to replace.

Removing Dentures & Cleaning the Mouth

When caring for an aging adult, make sure you know if the person wears complete or partial dentures. Partial dentures means they have some real teeth as well as a denture replacing missing teeth.

Often, when a patient is complaining of oral pain, it is from dentures that haven’t been removed for a while. If you don’t remove dentures every night, the denture can cause tissue overgrowth in the mouth, resulting in painful infection and/or swelling. This condition is known as hyperplasia of the tissues. Sometimes the patient will need to stop wearing the dentures, and this can affect their quality of life. While the denture can sometimes be adjusted to end the rubbing, you want to adjust it only as a last resort.

So, remember to remove the complete or partial dentures at night and let the mouth and tissues rest!

Removing Full Dentures:

• You can remove complete dentures by placing your index finger between the denture and the gum line midway back on the cheek side.
• Pull it down quickly if it is a top denture or pull it up quickly if it is on the bottom.
• The suction is broken, and the denture usually pops off.

If the individual uses a denture adhesive, it may be more difficult to remove the dentures. But do not despair – quickly pull down or up repeatedly, and it will come out.

Removing Partial Dentures:

• Similar as above, but use your thumb or index finger under the clasp and pull down if it is an upper partial denture or under the clasp and pull up for a lower partial.

Dentures consist of a special type of plastic and are extremely fragile. Be careful not to drop them because they could break in half. Should that happen, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR THEM YOURSELF. Self-repair kits sold online or at your local pharmacy sound great, but the dentures become irreparable. Please call your dentist to have a professional laboratory technician repair your dentures. It’s a quick and affordable repair.

Partial Dentures and Oral Health

To clean partial dentures, brush the remaining real teeth and remove the partial dentures as described above. You can use denture cleaning paste to brush their natural teeth and partial denture, or regular toothpaste for the natural teeth, but never use regular toothpaste on a partial denture!

There are different types of partial dentures you may see as a caregiver. One type is a denture where the base material is predominantly metal. Patients find it the most comfortable, as it fits like a glove. You clean it by brushing it completely with a soft or extra-soft toothbrush brush and/or soaking it for 20 minutes in an approved cleaner.

Valplast – a soft, flexible partial denture – is also a very popular choice of partial denture. No metal shows, sometimes the clasps are clear, and it looks very natural in the mouth. Its softness means it is kinder to the tissues, making it easier for a patient to wear it. However, due to the porous material, this partially attracts a bit more food and bacteria.

Why it Matters

If you do not remove it and only brush the remaining teeth, food and bacteria will collect around and under the clasps that hold it in on their real teeth, eventually leading to decay and possible tooth loss.

Occasionally, I get calls about a patient’s partial denture that is loose. I usually arrive intending to tighten a clasp but find the unfixable clasped tooth rotted and broken off. This can only be repaired by extracting the broken-off root left in the gum and adding a new clasp on a different healthy undecayed remaining tooth. This can be done bedside, but it’s best to avoid it if you can.

Summary

• Brush teeth at least twice a day. If you can only brush their teeth once, do it at nighttime. At night there is a huge buildup of collected food AND a full day’s worth of bacteria.
• If you wear full or partial dentures, remove them, soak them in Liquid Crystals in a Sonic Cleaner for 20 minutes, and leave them in a clear glass or denture container. Never wrap a denture in a tissue or napkin, lessening the chances of mishap.
• Use a mouthwash if the patient is not at risk for swallowing it. Or use a xylitol gel if swallowing toothpaste occurs.
• Use soft picks to clean under crowns and or bridges (especially after eating anything stringy like chicken, meat, corn…) and consult with a dentist if bleeding gums persist.
• Never attempt to repair a broken denture. Leave it to the professionals.
• Every denture should have ID’s placed in them no matter where they reside.
• Take out dentures before going to the hospital or in the ambulance.

I hope that this series will help you improve the oral health of the individual you care for.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals aim to help you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

December 15, 2022

The holidays can often be filled with high expectations, requiring lots of energy and engagement in non-stop activities. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia and their families, holidays can be challenging and a time of high anxiety. Festivities can agitate, confuse, and overstimulate persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Meanwhile, caregivers can feel anxious, frustrated, and lonely.

Seven Tips for Celebrating the Holidays with Dementia

To minimize the anxiety and encourage a happy, comfortable holiday season for the entire family, a little advanced thought and planning can go a long way in ensuring everyone has a wonderful time. Remembering that the holidays, at their best, are a time for enjoying one another’s company and sharing gratitude for each other can make some advanced planning go a long way.

Here are some stress busters that have worked for other families and might prove successful for your celebrations:

• Let guests know what to expect before they arrive. If your loved one is in the early stages of dementia, it’s likely family and friends won’t notice any changes. The person with middle or late-stage dementia may have trouble following conversations or tend to repeat him- or herself. Similarly, the family can help with communication by being patient, not interrupting or correcting, and giving the person time to finish his or her thoughts. Make sure visitors understand that changes in behavior and memory are caused by the disability and not the person. Also, understanding, acceptance, and patience go a long way.
• Adjust expectations. The challenges of caregiving responsibilities combined with holiday expectations can take a toll. Invite family and friends to a conversation ahead of time. Be honest about any limitations or needs, such as keeping a daily routine, or making modifications to plans to minimize holiday stress. The goal here is time together. Further, your loved one will enjoy the company of friends and family. So, let their presence be their present!
• Be good to YOU! This is often the hardest step. But giving yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably manage is one of the most precious gifts you can give yourself. If you’ve always had a large group at your home, consider having only a few guests for a simple meal. Let others participate by having a potluck dinner or asking them to host at their home. This is the time to be especially gentle and kind with yourself. This is also a great time to practice saying “no” and pace yourself.
• Involve the person with dementia. Focus on activities, traditions, and memories that are meaningful to the person with dementia. Your family member may find comfort in singing old holiday songs or looking through old photo albums. Additionally, involve the person in holiday preparation. As abilities allow, invite him or her to help you decorate, prepare food, set the table, wrap packages, or address holiday cards.
• Maintain a normal routine. Sticking to the person’s normal routine will help keep the holidays from becoming overly stressful or confusing. Also, plan time for breaks and rest. Make sure to have favorites at the ready: holiday music, movies, clothing, and food. Hence, all these familiar favorites can bring comfort and build enjoyment into a holiday celebration.
• Use the buddy system. Plan ahead to have family and friends take turns being the buddy to your loved one. This is a great way to encourage one-on-one time as well as to shield the individual with dementia from distress. It also gives a break to the primary caregiver.
• Engage Generations LifeCare Management. Generations LifeCare Management is the best lifecare management in Redding.  We understand dementia, aging, family systems, and the myriad of challenges and obstacles that families experience in caring for a loved one.  A Generations LifeCare Management expert can help anticipate issues and address them before they happen, offering options and wise counsel on how to navigate the holidays successfully. Our focus is on the well-being of the older adults in your life, while also helping you to care for yourself.  Hence, by engaging a Generations LifeCare Management Professional, you are working with someone who takes a holistic, client-centered approach to care for older adults. Visit the Generations LifeCare Management website to locate an expert near you.

By setting realistic expectations, involving others, maintaining a routine, and keeping activities and traditions to a select few, you can ensure yourself, your loved one, and family and friends a low-stress, memorable, and successful holiday season.

For more dementia information and resources, visit GLCM’s alliance organization the Dementia Society of America®.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

December 5, 2022

As our senior loved one’s age, we may start seeing physical and mental signs of decline. While some signs are not worrisome, others may be more concerning: anxiety, depression, forgetfulness, and mishandling money. These could indicate more serious issues and risky behaviors. So here are four things you can do to help your aging loved one manage their finances.

Four Ways to Help Your Aging Loved One Manage Finances

1. Stepping Up to Help With Daily Tasks

As they age, your loved one may start having difficulty remembering things like taking their medications and getting timely refills. If you notice your loved one can’t keep track of due dates for their bills or forgets to pick up their mail and leaves letters unopened, it is time for a conversation. Ask them if you can manage their finances to avoid overdraft fees, missed due dates, and other potential problems.

If you live far away or if you cannot visit regularly, consider hiring a Generations LifeCare Manager to check on your loved one, assess their needs, and recommend ongoing services. Further, share a calendar with their care team to let them know about appointments, and make a readily-accessible list of phone numbers that include doctors, pharmacies, banking institutions, and emergency numbers.

2. Finding a Suitable Rental

Another consideration is your loved one’s living arrangement. A popular option is finding a new, accessible, rental home or apartment, which means less maintenance than owning a home. When scouting rentals, look in neighborhoods with the amenities they need. View online listings to find properties in their price range to locate the perfect place.

3. Getting Power of Attorney

Ask your senior loved one if they’re willing to grant you power of attorney, which will allow you to make medical and/or financial decisions for them when they’re no longer able to do so. A power of attorney is a flexible document that lets your loved one (the principal) specify what decisions can be made on their behalf by another person (the agent). The principal can amend or make changes to that document at any time, provided they are of sound mind.

Once you fill out the required forms and have them notarized, print extra copies for your records and put them in a safe place. Being legally prepared before your loved one becomes ill or incapacitated will give both of you peace of mind – taking the guesswork out of what should happen and knowing that your loved one’s wishes will be respected in the event they’re no longer able to clearly communicate.

4. Closing or Selling Your Loved One’s Business

When your loved one owns the business but can’t manage it, it is time to close or sell it. Many steps are involved in dissolving an LLC or corporation, so consult with an accountant or attorney to avoid penalties. You will have to gather all documents pertaining to the company such as articles of incorporation and operating agreement and be able to provide a potential buyer with several years of tax returns, profit and loss statements, and client/vendor contracts, etc.

Get a professional business valuation in order to properly and objectively determine its value. A good business broker will help you come up with a number by analyzing the company’s management, capital structure, future earnings, and market value of its assets, and will facilitate and streamline the selling process.

It can be a difficult conversation, but it is important. Take time to discuss your loved one’s financial situation. Together, come up with a plan that will keep them financially secure. You’ll have greater peace of mind knowing that everything is in order.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

November 21, 2022

During the holiday season families and friends often make special visits to aging loved ones. Generations LifeCare Managers suggest you use this time to take note of any changes in health, behavior, or physical appearance. You may discover your aging loved one now needs more help or attention.

Is it Time for Help? Knowing When Your Aging Loved One Can’t Go it Alone Anymore 

Generations LifeCare Managers across the country notice an increase in inquiry calls during and immediately after the holiday season.  

Amidst the hustle and bustle, families should take time to observe any changes in an aging loved one’s behaviors or lifestyle, says Generations LifeCare Manager Liz Barlowe. These changes may vary widely. Bruises or cuts may indicate a recent fall, while a damaged car may indicate difficulty driving.

“These signs show serious and immediate risk for the individual as well as others around them,” states Barlowe. “But taking stock of general, subtle signs of decline is important too.” 

“For many families, the holidays are the first visit they’ve had with an aging relative in a year or longer,” says Kate Granigan a Generations LifeCare Manager practicing in Redding, CA. “It’s the first time they can see that their mother’s house is more cluttered than before, or that she’s shuffling more down the hallway or has strategically placed furniture to hold onto for balance.”  

Here are four key areas to examine during your holiday visits: 

• Environment: is there damage or disrepair around the house; are there piles of unopen mail; does the car have dents or scratches?  
• Food: is there adequate food; do you notice weight loss or extreme weight gain?  
• Mood or behavior: do you notice increased confusion? Have they given up hobbies or social outings; do you notice increased irritability or apathy?  
• Personal hygiene: do they not dress like they used to; do clothes seem unkempt or dirty; have they lost interest in personal grooming? 

What Happens After the Holidays?

Social isolation for seniors is a big concern, especially after the holidays Barlowe adds. The attention and activities around the holidays quickly fade and many aging relatives are left alone until the next big family event. “Loneliness and seclusion can be just as harmful to an aging adult as unhealthy habits.”  

So how do you start a conversation with your loved one that they consider outside help? Granigan suggests taking the cues of what may be challenging them without confronting them. Ask questions about how their life could be easier or more enjoyable and then you can gently lead them into a service you learned about to help out-source challenging tasks or to be a go-to assistant for support. “Not pressuring but leaving the door open with a ‘let’s think about it’ tone allows you to revisit the subject.” 

These are just a few warning signs that your aging loved one needs assistance. By initiating conversation and reaching out for support and information, you can help your loved ones as they navigate this new stage of their lives. 

For more information or to find a Generations LifeCare Manager near you contact us.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

July 25, 2022

Thinking about using a Medical Alert System / Personal Emergency Response System? GLCM Corporate Partner David Michaels shares the basics of Medical Alert Systems to help determine the best system for you or your aging loved one.

What You Need to Know Before Choosing a Medical Alert System

Wilhelm Hormann created the Medical Alert System – also known as personal emergency response systems (PERS) – in the early 1970s as a means of relaying urgent biomedical data and social communication. In 1975, American International Telephone Corporation offered the first medical alert system – a pendant worn by a person who when in distress pushed a button and it called a set of preprogrammed phone numbers. In the 1980’s we all became familiar with the saying “I’ve fallen and can’t get up.”

Medical Alert Systems provide protection when no one is around or close by to lend a hand. Technology has drastically changed and improved the device since its early days now offering a selection of pendants, watches, and even systems that do not require wearing a pendant or wristband.

Medical Alert Systems help individuals maintain quality of life while reassuring their families that they are safe. Two major categories separate Medical Alert Systems: In the home and On the Go. Here are a few of the features and benefits of the two categories of units:

In the Home

• Units are ideal for anyone who is homebound or just needs little extra protection when at home – singles are a great example
• Use either a traditional landline or cellular connections
• Waterproof
• Fall Detection is available
• 24/7 Emergency Help is available

On the Go

• Watches or Pendants
• Wi-Fi and GPS location technology
• Apps for tracking a loved one
• Water Resistant
• Work anywhere in the United States
• Fall Detection is available
• 24/7 Emergency Help is available

GPS and Medical Alert System / PERS

One question often asked is does the Medical Alert System have GPS. Every PERs dealer and manufacturer of the PERs knows where the system is located. Further, depending on the area, the system uses an advanced combination of GPS and WIFI technology to locate the individual.

When a family member or caregiver wants to find the individual, if they are a wanderer for example, then a system with real-time tracking is recommended and utilized.

Monitored vs Non-Monitored Systems

Another great question often asked is why use a monitored system versus a non-monitored system.

• The first reason is simple – monitored systems always answer. When a loved one pushes their PERS button at 3 AM – when most people are sound asleep – the emergency contact most likely will not hear their phone ring. This means mom may lie on the floor in distress for hours until someone wakes up and looks at the phone.  A professionally monitored system will always answer.
• The second reason is technology updates. A medical alert received through a dealer will always have the latest technology and provide it to you or your clients free of charge. An example happening now with 3G being terminated. All dealers are upgrading their clients to new 4G units for free. Similarly, if you purchase a self-monitored unit, it will force you to upgrade it, or it will not work by the end of the year.
• The third reason is location. Anyone who has called 911 in an emergency knows they always ask you for your location. Why? Because many 911 centers use old and outdated CAD software (simply no room in the budget for updates). Basically, this means if you need help and can’t respond to 911’s location question, 911 might cant find you. However, response centers used by medical alert companies all use the most up-to-date software and know where the device is and who the person is pushing the button.

The following  Redditt post is a powerful example of why a monitored Medical Alert System: “Now, it also depends on the device in question and the infrastructure in the area as to how the call is handled. No voice call from an Apple watch? Very low chance of attendance in any sort of timely manner – just far too many false activations. A no voice call from a dedicated welfare device stating a duress condition or – in the case of eldercare technology – a possible fall – those are attended to in an immediate fashion.”

The main reason people chose a non-monitored or self-monitored system is cost, but for less than $1 a day, one can have all the protection needed with a monitored system.

Therefore, at the end of the day, Medical Alert Systems save lives from a catastrophe once every 11 minutes.

Before purchasing a Medical Alert system, it’s always best to discuss the specifics with your loved ones or Generations LifeCare Manager as they are familiar with many systems and know the expert providers of the systems. Hence, to locate a Generations LifeCare Manager in your area, Contact us. To hire a GLCM Corporate Partner that specializes in Medical Alert Systems, click here.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management

Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

July 1, 2022

It’s been a challenging year, with social isolation, a worldwide pandemic, and having to be confined indoors.  Now that it’s Summer and most of the outdoor restrictions have been lifted, it is exciting to finally be able to venture outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather, the blossoming flowers, and the abundant sunshine! However, there are safety risks to keep in mind when we venture outdoors. It’s important to follow heat safety tips and precautions when taking aging adults out into the sun and heat. 

Tips for Keeping Aging Adults Safe in the Sun

Older adults are more vulnerable to heat stroke as are those with heart, lung, or kidney disease. However, these seven safety tips will help beat the heat and keep you and your aging loved one safe outside this summer:

1. Wear Sunscreen. It doesn’t matter if you will be outside for a half-hour or all day, sunscreen use is essential for skin health and blocking sun rays (it’s a good idea to read the label to ensure you are getting adequate sun protection from UVA and UVB rays).
2. Bring sunglasses. Especially if you’re driving on a sunny day, glare can obstruct vision. Further, it’s a good idea to have an extra pair of sunglasses in the car or in your bag.
3. Bring water. Reusable water bottles are a great investment. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they are also portable and most do a great job at keeping water nice and cool. Don’t leave the house without a supply of water and remember to drink even if you’re not feeling thirsty frequently. Also, try to avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol which can be dehydrating.
4. Dress appropriately. When the weather is unpredictable, wear layers. In warm weather, try to wear fabrics that breathe and avoid heavy, bulky fabrics such as synthetic materials or wool. You can also bring a light sweater/jacket to put on if you get chilly.
5. Don’t forget the chance of rain. In summer months, storms can sneak right up on us, and no one likes getting caught in the rain. Consider investing in a small portable umbrella to keep in your car/purse.
6. Be mindful of overdoing it. Heatstroke can occur when we exert ourselves too much without proper hydration or perhaps in conjunction with medical/physical issues. Be very aware of your physical symptoms. If you start to feel dizzy, exhausted, nauseous, excessively sweaty, or get out of breath…stop! Try to find a shaded spot, indoors if possible, and sit down. Drink and, if possible, splash cool water on your face, neck, and wrists. Rest and rehydrate until you feel steady again. Seek medical attention if you do not improve or lose consciousness. Also, learn to recognize the symptoms of heat stroke so that if you are with someone showing the symptoms, you can assist them in getting immediate medical attention. Heat stroke symptoms can include: fainting or loss of consciousness, dizziness, behavioral changes (confusion, irritability), flushed skin, and weak pulse.
7. Check-in on older loved ones when it is especially hot. Make sure they have enough to drink, aren’t exerting themselves, and have access to a comfortable environment. If they don’t have air conditioning, suggest they visit a friend who does or that they go into a shopping center, library, or senior center to sit and cool off.

With these heat safety tips in mind, we can all enjoy the great outdoors safely and comfortably.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management

Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

June 16, 2022

This Pride Month, Generations LifeCare Management Professionals across the country join in celebrating and honoring LGBTQ+ elders. Included in this celebration is understanding the unique needs of LGBTQ+ elders and creating care plans that support and enhance their individual lifestyles. According to SAGE, LGBTQ+ elders are:

• Twice as likely to be single and live alone
• Four times less likely to have children

Generations LifeCare Managers are excellent for building a care network for LGBTQ+ elders or those who require support in aging.

Though Improving, LGBTQ+ Elders Still Face Unique Obstacles

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate and affirm the diverse mosaic of our humanity. Part of this rainbow coalition includes a growing number of LGBTQIA+ elders. Conservative estimates are that there are over 3 million LGBTQIA+ people over 50 living in the US today. SAGE, an advocacy organization for the older LGBTQIA+ community, expects that number to grow to over 7 million by 2030.

During the McCarthy Era, society severely stigmatized and criminalized the identity of LGBTQIA+ adults (ages 65 and older) who came of age during that time. They had to deny who they were and live under a blanket of silence or risk verbal or physical assaults, job loss, discrimination, and ostracization. Since then, several hard-won victories, such as the Equality Act, bans discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.

However, many older adults in the community still face unique obstacles. Elderly LGBTQIA+ adults are less likely to have had the opportunities to parent, reduce their support system, and increase their likelihood of living alone. Moreover, the resulting isolation has often led to financial insecurity. As they age, they are much more likely to be caregivers for their friends in the LGBTQIA+ community. Because they have experienced many challenges throughout their lives, they have higher incidences of depression, substance abuse, and HIV.

Many elderly LGBTQIA+ adults experience high levels of discrimination in accessing assisted living or affordable housing. In fact, a transition into senior living for many can mean going back “into the closet”. As they do not have confidence that senior residences can accommodate their care and safety needs. This is compounded if they have memory issues. Many same-sex partners are still denied visitation rights in hospitals and long-term care residences. Additionally, many LGBTQIA+ elders are not candid about their sexual orientation for fear of receiving inferior care from medical providers.

Some positive developments are on the horizon. Further, there are now an increasing number of senior living residences and aging-in-place communities, creating more welcoming and inclusive environments. More and more people realize that LGBTQIA+ cultural competency training for medical, facility, and home care staff is key to developing affirming and inclusive care. Additionally, on advocacy, we must continue to pressure federal, state, and local governments to include sexual orientation and gender identity protections in existing housing laws.

Senior housing providers must be pushed to adopt anti-discrimination policies (SAGE LGBTQIA-friendly housing resources). On a broader level, the community’s unique needs need to be integrated into systems of care across the continuum so that services for older adults are assessed on their ability to be welcoming to people who are older and who identify as LGBTQIA+. As we continue to evolve into a more inclusive society, it is past time to show our elderly LGBTQIA+ adults who fought for equality the dignity and respect they deserve and acknowledge and affirm that their dreams for aging well matter.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Further, information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Therefore, always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management

Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals aim to help you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com

July 6, 2017

With temperatures already breaking 100° in parts of the country, the dog days of summer are here and it will only get hotter. This raises some concerns about keeping safe and cool, especially among senior citizens. Aging adults, in particular, may be at higher risk of heat-related maladies as they are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature. Additionally, as we grow older, our bodies become less efficient at regulating body temperature. Certain health conditions and medications can also make it more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature or to perspire.

Surviving the Dog Days of Summer

While a simple rise in temperature may not seem like a health threat, according to the National Weather Service, heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related death in the United States, causing hundreds of fatalities each year.

Fortunately, there are several things we can do to stay safe and cool, even in the midst of summer’s hottest days.

Stay Hydrated

Just as our sensitivity to heat dulls as we age, so does our awareness of thirst. This, along with our body’s ability to conserve water as we grow older, put seniors at greater risk of dehydration. Summer heat adds to the risk because, on hot days, the body loses water more quickly. Here are some tips for staying hydrated this summer.

• Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to take in fluids. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these can cause the body to lose even more fluid.
• Eat lots of fresh fruit, a wonderful source of fluids – not everything has to be water.
• Add fresh lemon or lime to your water to add a little flavor.
• Use water to dilute fruit juices, making them last longer and increasing your fluid intake.
• Get creative! Make “mocktails,” like non-alcoholic daiquiris and pina coladas.

If you are on a fluid-restricted diet, consult your physician about how to get the fluids you need during the hot summer months.

Other Summer Safety Tips for Adults to Beat the Heat

Here are some other summer safety tips for adults to beat the heat this summer:

• Keep your home safe and comfortable by running the air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day and by letting in cool air in the early morning and late evening hours. If you need financial help to keep your home cool, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
• If your home isn’t air-conditioned, take a break during the hottest part of the day by going to a movie, shopping at an indoor mall, or visiting a library.
• Dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing make of natural fabrics, like linen or cotton.
• If you must go outside (gardening, errands), plan this for the early morning hours, when it’s coolest.
• Supplement your diet with folic acid – a new study from Penn State showed that folic acid can enhance blood vessel dilation in older adults, which may help them to avoid heat-related issues such as heart attacks or strokes.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Get plenty of rest.

 If You Do Experience Problems …

If you or a loved one experiences heavy sweating, weakness, a fast and weak pulse, nausea, or fainting, this could be a sign of heat exhaustion. In this case, move to a cool location as quickly as possible. Lie down, loosen your clothing, and apply cool, wet clothes to as much of the body as possible. Sip some cool water.

Heat stroke is a more serious situation and is characterized by a body temperature above 103 degrees, hot and red skin, a rapid and strong pulse, or unconsciousness. In this case, call 911 immediately. Before paramedics arrive, move the person to a cooler environment, and apply cool clothes, but do NOT give them fluids.

Enjoy Your Summer!

With a little diligence and preparation, everyone should be able to enjoy these dog days of summer safely. If you are concerned about a family member, neighbor, or loved one, consult with a Generations LifeCare Professional.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect the official positions of Generations LifeCare Management and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

About Generations LifeCare Management: Discover the best way to age gracefully with Generations LifeCare Management – the leading expert in senior care. Our expert professionals are dedicated to helping you live your best life.

Contact us today to find a Generations LifeCare expert in your area.

Generations LifeCare Management – The Best LifeCare Management in Redding

Redding, CA 96003
United States (US)
Phone: (530)-780-6022
Email: Selina@generationslifecaremanagement.com
URL: https://generationslifecaremanagement.com