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Month: May 2023

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Posted on by Craig Bass

This is Pam Eisenberg. Pam is the Senior Manager East Valley for The Walk to End Alzheimer’s. I would like to publicly thank Pam for her contribution to the Alzheimer’s/Dementia community. This is Pam standing next to a Walk to End Alzheimer’s group that walked with Golden Heart Senior Care 7 years ago. Pam, we look forward to participating in the walk this November.

For more information on the walk or to make a donation, please contact us at rodney@GoldenHeartScottsdale.com. Stay hydrated everyone.

What Are the Best Tips for Storing and Preparing Frozen Foods?

Posted on by Craig Bass

Frozen foods are both convenient and cost-effective for aging adults. Whether seniors are eating home-cooked meals that have been prepared in advance and then stored in the freezer or are relying on things like frozen vegetables to eat healthier, there are lots of ways to make meals easier with frozen food. Senior home care can help even more to make healthy, regular meals something seniors have easy access to on a daily basis.

Storing Frozen Foods Properly

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to storing frozen foods properly. First, the ideal temperature for frozen foods is 0 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. It’s a good idea to use a freezer thermometer to verify that the freezer is set to the proper temperature. Most frozen foods have a recommended storage time. Homemade foods are usually okay to freeze for up to several months at a time. Pre-packaged frozen foods can be kept in the containers they were purchased in, but over time they can develop freezer burn. Homemade foods should be stored in airtight containers, like freezer bags, in order to keep them as safe as possible from both freezer burn and contamination. Label containers with the date and the food that is in the container.

Preparing Frozen Foods

Most frozen foods should be thawed before cooking, especially if those foods will be cooked in the oven or on the stovetop. Microwaveable foods might not need thawing first, depending on the type of food going into the microwave. Foods that do need to be thawed should always be kept in the fridge, not on the kitchen counter. Although lots of people make it a habit to thaw foods on the kitchen counter, this can actually be a dangerous choice in terms of food safety. Thorough cooking helps to kill off bacteria and ensure that food is safe to eat.

Dealing with Leftovers

Leftovers can be a danger area for seniors. If there is food left over, it should be put into the refrigerator as quickly as possible after eating. Leftovers in the refrigerator aren’t going to stick around forever, unfortunately. Seniors may need help from family caregivers or home care providers to stay on top of clearing out the fridge periodically so leftovers don’t become dangerous.

Senior Home Care Can Be a Huge Help

Home care providers are always helpful when it comes to keeping seniors fed a healthy diet. They can assist seniors with shopping for healthy foods, preparing meals, and making sure that foods are stored safely. Senior home care can also help to make sure that aging adults are eating regularly, which can be a big problem at times.

The easier it is for aging adults to access safe and healthy food, the more likely they are going to be eating healthy meals on a regular basis. Frozen foods and meals can help to make that happen. Senior home care is an imperative resource if aging adults need some extra help keeping up with meal preparation and other tasks related to cooking and eating.

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Fountain Hills, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Laurie Malone Education Foundation

Posted on by Craig Bass

Hello Senior Community. As you may know, we are approaching the one-year milestone of Laurie’s passing. Thank each of you who contributed to the Scholarship Fund Last year. We find peace in knowing the Laurie Malone Scholarship Fund raised over $17,000 in 2022 and afforded 8 students with scholarships to further their education. In memory of Laurie, we are continuing to raise awareness and funds for scholarships. If you would like to donate to K2 Adventures Foundation, please use the link below. This link will take you directly to the Laurie Malone Scholarship fund.

On behalf of the Malone Family, we are grateful for your support and keeping Laurie’s memory and dynamic personality alive.

https://k2adventures.org/programs/local-programs/educational-scholarship/

Older Adults Have Mental Health Issues, Too

Posted on by Craig Bass

Many people think of mental illness as something affecting teens and young adults, but fewer people realize that the elderly are just as likely to be experiencing problems with their mental health. Twenty million older adults have at least one mental health issue. Depression and chronic anxiety are the two most common.

A bigger problem is that many people with mental health disorders do not get the treatment they need. WHO and PAHO estimate that 66% of older adults fall into what’s called a “Treatment Gap” and receive no care for their mental health. This is concerning as 90% of older adults also reported not feeling that they get enough support, whether it’s from family and friends, their community, or the medical profession.

It might be that your dad is ashamed and doesn’t want to mention it to his doctor. He may have tried to bring it up and wasn’t taken as seriously as he expected. Either way, mental health is not something to ignore.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. These are the most common mental health issues and the things you can do to support your dad if he has any of them.

Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common, and it can be tied to excessive stress that’s not properly managed or past events that left lasting scars. There are many types of anxiety and some of the more common are:

  • Generalized Anxiety – Anxiety that happens every day that can be about anything.
  • Social Anxiety – Becoming extremely anxious in social settings, such as a holiday party or while shopping.

If anxiety isn’t addressed, it can build into panic disorder. A full-blown panic attack will hit and cause symptoms like a racing heart, chest pain, chills, feelings of detachment, tingling hands and feet, nausea, dizziness, etc. As many of the symptoms mimic a heart attack or stroke, it can be alarming and that fear only makes it worse.

When he’s dealing with anxiety, your dad may find it comforting to have people around more often. Try to make sure companionship visits are boosted.

Bipolar Disorder

Someone who is bipolar goes through good and bad periods where that person can be feeling fantastic and full of life one day and then experience a depressive episode the next. These waves of ups and downs can be exhausting and isolating.

Your dad will be prescribed medications to help balance his mood. He must take them each day.

Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment is also a mental health condition. This includes things like Alzheimer’s where the brain’s deterioration affects mood, memory, and behavior.

In the early stages of dementia, there’s not much that needs to be done. It is a good time to address advance directives and estate plans. As the disease progresses, help with personal care, housekeeping, transportation, and meals are all important.

Depression

Depression is a disorder that affects how you think, feel, and act. Someone who is depressed may withdraw from others. You might notice your dad stays in bed all morning and doesn’t ever want to get out of bed. He’ll lose interest in activities that he used to enjoy.

He needs to see his doctor and have an honest conversation. If his doctor dismisses him, make sure you advocate for your dad to get proper treatment.

In-home care is a good way to provide your dad with the companionship and household help he needs as he focuses on de-stressing and improving his mental health. His caregiver can drive him to therapy sessions, support groups, and other counseling sessions.

He’ll also have a caregiver to accompany him on walks in nature, shopping trips, and time spent in his gardens. Learn more about these and the other benefits of in-home care.

Sources:
https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-to-improve-access-to-mental-health-and-substance-use-care-for-older-adults
https://www3.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9877:seniors-mental-health&Itemid=0&lang=en#gsc.tab=0
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/pdf/mental_health.pdf

If you or an aging loved one is considering in-home care in Phoenix, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Thank You for Stepping Up, JC!

Posted on by Craig Bass

Sometimes, someone steps up to help and they should be recognized for doing so. JC was at his home doing personal chores. When we phoned him to say that a client has an emergency and we need your help, JC did not hesitate to say I’ll do it. We offer what’s called Bonu$ Reward Points. This is when an employee does something extraordinary, they win points that can later be turned in for cash rewards at Target, Starbucks, Bed Bath and Beyond, Walmart and the likes. JC will receive both a financial bonus and Bonu$ reward point$ for his efforts in helping over the weekend. Thank you JC for stepping up to help. We Heart you at Golden Heart.

Four Things Elder Care Services Do to Help Your Parents Stay at Home

Posted on by tony pallota

Elder care is one of the most important services your family can consider when your parents are isolated. That isolation could be a preventative measure to keep your parents healthy. It could be the result of an injury or surgical procedure. If they shouldn’t be or cannot go out, caregivers can help out. Here are four services caregivers offer that helps when older adults are self-distancing or stuck at home.

Check-Ins to Make Sure They’re Okay

Caregivers can stop by to make sure your parents are okay. It’s a helpful way to ensure your parents are still okay and not infected with a virus. If they are sick, the caregiver can alert medical professionals. The caregiver can also alert you so that you know what’s going on even if you live hours away and can’t get to them.

Meal Preparation

You might not want caregivers in your parents’ home cooking full meals. It is safe, however, and one of the best ways to make sure your parents are eating well. They’ll cook meals that meet your parents’ nutritional requirements like low-sodium or sugar-free dishes. Your parents don’t go out and get takeout constantly when they should be self-distancing.

Caregivers are trained and equipped to keep your parents safe. They’ll follow rules that disinfect things coming into the home. They won’t come to work if they’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or don’t feel well. If that happens, another caregiver is assigned to help instead.

Companionship

Your parents don’t have to be stuck in their house. They can go outside for walks. If they’re not steady on their feet and need someone to walk with them, caregivers can do that. They’ll have a caregiver available for walks and supervision outside.

The fresh air and sun will help with mental and emotional health. You don’t have to worry about your parent falling outside and having no one to help.

Grocery and Prescription Pick-Up

Hire a caregiver to pick up the groceries your parents need. They can also stop at the pharmacy to get prescription refills or purchase over-the-counter medications and vitamins your parents need for allergy season, arthritis pain, or general health. Caregivers can stop at a store to get incontinence supplies, tissues, paper towels, and other household necessities.

Your parents shouldn’t be going out to stores right now. It’s not always easy to tell if someone has coronavirus. If someone does and coughs or sneezes, there’s the possibility that your parents will touch an item with the live virus and end up contracting it. You don’t want that to happen, and that’s why elder care is important.

When you are in need of care for a senior loved one, consider caregivers provided by Golden Heart Senior Care. We have offices nationwide.

Tips for Selecting a Home Care Agency

Posted on by Craig Bass

Choosing the right home care agency for a loved one can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, by considering a few key factors, you can make an informed decision and find a home care agency that meets your loved one’s unique needs.

  1. Determine Your Loved One’s Needs

Before you start searching for a home care agency, it’s important to determine your loved one’s specific needs. Are they recovering from an injury or surgery? Do they have a chronic illness? Are they dealing with cognitive decline? Understanding your loved one’s situation and the level of care they require will help you narrow down your search and find an agency that offers the appropriate services.

  1. Research Home Care Agencies

Once you know what type of care your loved one requires, you can start researching home care agencies. Look for agencies that specialize in the type of care your loved one needs, such as dementia care or post-surgery care. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or healthcare providers.

  1. Check the Agency’s Reputation

When choosing a home care agency, it’s essential to check their reputation. Look for reviews online, and ask the agency for references from previous clients. You can also check the agency’s accreditation and licensing status to ensure that they meet the necessary standards.

  1. Consider the Caregiver’s Qualifications

The caregiver who will be providing care for your loved one is a crucial factor to consider. Ask the agency about their caregiver screening process and training. Look for agencies that employ caregivers who are licensed, bonded, and insured. You should also consider the caregiver’s experience and expertise in providing care for your loved one’s specific needs.

  1. Evaluate the Agency’s Communication and Support

Effective communication and support are essential for a successful home care experience. Look for an agency that provides clear and consistent communication with you and your loved one. They should also have a support system in place to address any concerns or issues that arise.

In conclusion, selecting a home care agency is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding your loved one’s needs, researching agencies, checking their reputation, considering caregiver qualifications, and evaluating their communication and support, you can find an agency that provides the high-quality care your loved one deserves.

Introducing Seniors to In-Home Care

Posted on by tony pallota

As people age, it’s common for them to require additional assistance with daily tasks. Whether it’s due to a medical condition, mobility issues, or simply a decline in physical and cognitive abilities, seniors may need help with tasks such as bathing, cooking, cleaning, and medication management. In-home care services can provide seniors with the support they need to live independently in their own homes. However, introducing seniors to in-home care services can be challenging, especially if they are resistant to the idea. Here are some suggestions for how to introduce seniors to in-home care services.

  1. Start the conversation early

It’s important to start the conversation about in-home care services early. Waiting until a crisis occurs can make the transition more difficult for everyone involved. Ideally, you should begin discussing in-home care services with your loved one before they actually need them. This will give them time to get used to the idea and consider their options.

  1. Approach the topic with empathy

Many seniors are resistant to the idea of in-home care services because they see it as a loss of independence. It’s important to approach the topic with empathy and understanding. Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that in-home care services can actually help them maintain their independence by providing them with the support they need to live safely and comfortably in their own homes.

  1. Involve your loved one in the decision-making process

It’s important to involve your loved one in the decision-making process. Ask them what their preferences are in terms of the type of care they receive, the schedule, and the caregiver. By involving them in the decision-making process, you can help them feel more in control of the situation.

  1. Provide information about the benefits of in-home care services

It’s important to provide your loved one with information about the benefits of in-home care services. In-home care services can provide a range of benefits, including:

  • Assistance with daily tasks
  • Improved safety and security
  • Increased socialization
  • Better health outcomes
  • Reduced caregiver stress

By highlighting the benefits of in-home care services, you can help your loved one see the value of this type of care.

  1. Consider a trial period

If your loved one is still resistant to the idea of in-home care services, consider a trial period. This will give them an opportunity to try out the services and see how they feel about them. Start with a few hours a day and gradually increase the amount of time as your loved one becomes more comfortable with the caregiver.

In conclusion, introducing seniors to in-home care services can be a challenge, but it’s an important step in helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. By starting the conversation early, approaching the topic with empathy, involving your loved one in the decision-making process, providing information about the benefits of in-home care services, and considering a trial period, you can help your loved one make the transition to in-home care services with greater ease and confidence.

When you are in need of care for a senior loved one, consider caregivers provided by Golden Heart Senior Care. We have offices nationwide.

How to Make Adjusting to Home Care Easier for Your Senior

Posted on by tony pallota

Even the idea of home care can be upsetting for some seniors. If you haven’t talked with her about why you’re suggesting this idea, she might fear that you’re convinced that she’s becoming infirm as she grows older.

Talk about What’s Bothering Her

If you and your senior have just been arguing about this idea, you might not realize that you don’t fully understand her perspective. Take the time to talk to her about why the idea isn’t feeling like a good one to her. She may have some valid reasons that you can either explain or work through with her. It’s amazing how validating it can feel to her for you to just listen, if that’s all you’re able to do at this point.

Talk about the Benefits

After you hear your senior out, it might be a good idea to share some of the benefits and reasons for home care services to her. Knowing that she’s safe and secure in her own home might be at the top of your list. There are also tasks that they can take over for her, which can help her to save both time and energy that she can put toward other activities. Lean on those benefits, because that’s going to make the most sense to your senior.

Work Together to Put a Plan in Place

Keeping your senior involved in the plan you’re putting in place is crucial. If you don’t, she’s going to feel as if you’re cutting her out and making decisions around her. That’s never something that you want for her. Talk to your elderly family member about what she needs the most help with right now and what you can do in order to make her life easier. Then talk about how home care can fit into that.

Set up a Time Frame

Something else that can help is to let your senior know that this can be a trial situation. When you set up a time frame, no matter how long or short it is, that helps your senior to know that she’s not stuck with whatever plan you’ve put together with her. If she realizes that she enjoys having some extra help, that’s always something that can be extended.

Just because your elderly family member needs some extra help, that doesn’t mean that she’s feeble by any stretch. Make sure that you share with her how home care services can be empowering for her.

When you are in need of care for a senior loved one, consider caregivers provided by Golden Heart Senior Care. We have offices nationwide.

When should seniors stop driving?

Posted on by Craig Bass

As people age, their driving abilities may decline due to a number of factors such as slower reflexes, vision problems, cognitive impairment, and medical conditions. This can raise concerns about their safety on the road and the safety of other drivers and pedestrians. However, giving up driving can also mean a loss of independence and mobility, which can be a difficult transition for seniors. So, when should seniors stop driving?

The decision to stop driving should be based on an individual’s driving ability, not just their age. Some seniors may be able to drive safely well into their 80s or 90s, while others may need to stop driving earlier due to medical conditions or cognitive impairment. Family members and caregivers can play an important role in monitoring seniors’ driving abilities and assessing whether it’s time for them to stop driving.

Here are some signs that may indicate it’s time for a senior to stop driving:

  1. Difficulty with basic driving tasks: This may include trouble with braking or accelerating, staying in the correct lane, and maintaining a safe speed.
  2. Getting lost or disoriented while driving: Seniors who get lost or confused while driving may be experiencing cognitive decline or memory problems.
  3. Increased accidents or near-misses: If a senior has been involved in multiple accidents or near-misses, it may be a sign that their driving skills have declined.
  4. Difficulty seeing or hearing: Vision and hearing problems can make it difficult for seniors to drive safely, especially in low-light conditions or when navigating busy streets.
  5. Medication side effects: Some medications can cause drowsiness, confusion, or other side effects that can impair driving abilities.

If a senior is experiencing any of these issues, it may be time to have a conversation about their driving abilities and consider alternative transportation options. Family members and caregivers can work together to find alternative transportation options such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, or volunteer driving programs.

It’s important to approach this conversation with empathy and understanding, as giving up driving can be a difficult transition for seniors. Encourage seniors to express their concerns and feelings, and work together to find solutions that meet their transportation needs while ensuring their safety on the road.

In conclusion, there is no set age at which seniors should stop driving. The decision to stop driving should be based on an individual’s driving ability and any medical or cognitive issues that may impair their ability to drive safely. Family members and caregivers can play an important role in monitoring seniors’ driving abilities and finding alternative transportation options when it’s time for them to stop driving.