The Impact Of Social Media On Our Seniors

Many people believe that seniors have no interest in technology. However, there are many seniors who use social media. In fact, studies have shown that people who are over the age of 65 make up the fastest growing social media audience.

There are a number of benefits that seniors can reap from using social media. Below is a list of some of those benefits:

Mental And Physical Benefits

A study done by the American Psychological Association found that seniors who are actively involved in social media are more likely to engage in activities that promote better health, such as preparing nutritious meals. The study also found that seniors who are active on social media are less likely to have diabetes and high blood pressure. Furthermore, they are less likely to have negative health habits, such as smoking.

Keeps Family Together

Social media sites like Facebook are great for staying in touch with family members. Many older people who are far away from their grandchildren can still watch them grow up by looking at pictures on Facebook and Instagram. People can also stay in touch with distant family members by using video chat.

Peace Of Mind

Living apart from family members can be quite stressful. Many people are worried about living far away from their elderly family members. However, people can stay in touch with their loved ones via social media. Talking frequently with one's loved one on social media can give a person peace of mind.

Community Engagement

Many seniors are lonely because they do not get to spend any time with their friends. However, social media can give a senior a sense of belonging. People can meet up with their friends via social media. Additionally, seniors who are unable to leave their homes can fight loneliness via social media.

Online Shopping

It is easy to find out about online deals via social media. Online shopping is ideal for seniors because it allows them to get what they need without leaving the house. In many cases, shopping online is cheaper than shopping in a store. This is ideal for seniors because many of them are living on a fixed income.

If you are in need of an in-home caregiver, then you should consider contacting Visiting Angels at 702-562-3322.

How To Know When Your Parent Needs A Caregiver

Most seniors prefer to do things themselves. However, people who have health problems may need assistance completing the activities of daily living. That is why many seniors need a caregiver. A caregiver is a professional who can assist your loved one with the activities of daily living.

A caregiver can also help your parent with errands. You may be wondering whether your loved one needs a caregiver. Below is a list of signs that your parent is in need of a caregiver:

Your Loved One Has Difficulty With Activities Of Daily Living

If your parent is struggling with activities of daily living, then it is time to hire a caregiver. This includes things such as toileting, grooming, walking and dressing. Many seniors who struggle with activities of daily living are admitted to an assisted living facility or nursing home.

However, a caregiver can help your parent stay in his or her home much longer. A caregiver will give your parent the right balance of independence and support.

Changes In Physical Appearance

In many cases, changes in physical appearance are a sign that your loved one is in need of a caregiver. For example, if your parent is losing weight, then this may be a sign that he or she is having difficulty cooking. Poor hygiene and a sloppy appearance could be an indication that your loved one is having difficulty dressing and grooming him or herself.

Blue and black marks on the body could be an indication that a person has fallen or has trouble walking.

Behavioral Changes

You may want to hire a caregiver if you notice strange behavior from your parent. This includes things such as lack of motivation or drive and failing to return phone calls. If your parent becomes physically or verbally abusive, then he or she may need a caregiver.

Signs Of Dementia

It is a good idea to hire a caregiver if your loved one is showing any signs of dementia. This includes things such as memory lapses, confusion and repetitive speech. Mood swings and personality changes are some of the other signs of dementia.

If you are looking for a caregiver, then you should consider contacting Visiting Angels in Las Vegas.

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Becoming Your Parent’s Caregiver

 

How is it that one man’s dream is another’s worst nightmare? This seems to be the norm when it comes to our older generation who want to spend their golden years in the home they worked so hard to have. Unfortunately, their dream can quickly turn into a nightmare for their children who are tasked to take care of them as they get older.

 

Seniors wanting to live independently are occasionally inflexible and obstinate.

It’s understandable wanting to live at home, but sometimes it isn’t the most practical decision. Even though there are many different alternatives to retirement centers, the belief that there is no place like home holds true for most. Seniors who wish to remain in their homes until their last days, must be able to take care of themselves for the most part. The reality is that more often than not, this isn’t the case. This raises the question, "Who will be their caregiver?"

 

Being your parent’s caregiver is a full-time job. Adult children often feel obligated to do so, and most of the time, the sole responsibility falls directly onto one person’s shoulders. Before you take on this massive responsibility, there are a few questions you should ask yourself before you make a final decision.

 

What are the sacrifices I will need to make to able to take care of my parents?

1. Will I be able to give my own family enough quality time?
2. From a financial aspect, is it affordable?
3. How understanding is my employer about the situation?
4. Is my job in jeopardy due taking time off from work to care for my parents?
5. Will I lose possibility for advancement at work?
6. Do I fully understand what is involved?
7. Am I able to provide a satisfactory level of care in comparison to a trained professional?
8. How will my spouse and children feel about my absence?
9. Is it possible to have time for myself without feeling guilty?

Keep in mind that your decision will not only impact you, but your own family as well. If you think you are unable to be your parents caregiver, don't feel ashamed.

The dedicated staff at Visiting Angels in Las Vegas understand. We know how much you love your parents, but we also understand that you have other obligations that demand your attention. Call us today to talk about the possible options. Together we can find a solution that makes everyone smile.

Dementia Is Not A Disease For The Old

Dementia is a prolonged or progressive syndrome that results in deterioration in cognitive function. The ability to process thought is greatly severed beyond the expected in cases of normal aging. Dementia affects language, calculation, thinking, orientation, memory, comprehension, judgment, and learning capacity. It never affects one’s consciousness. Deterioration in emotional regulation, motivation or social behavior mostly accompanies or precedes the impairment in cognitive function.

A variety of diseases and injuries cause dementia. They primarily or sometimes secondarily affect the brain, with perfect examples being the Alzheimer’s illness or stroke. It is not only those who suffer from the condition that bear the brunt of its effects but also the caregivers and families of those living with the condition. The responsibility and stress of taking care of a friend or loved one who is suffering from the dementia can be great. It has been identified as an important cause of disability and dependency especially among older people across the globe. It impacts severe physical, physiological, social and economic ramifications on those affected. 

Dementia comes in different forms or causes. There is no distinct margin between the various forms of dementia and mixed forms of the problem do co-exist. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease that has been identified to contribute to 60-70% of the cases. Some other forms of dementia include several conditions that cause frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. The Lewy bodies are strange protein aggregates that usually develop inside nerve cells. 

Though dementia is commonly associated with seniors, it sometimes affects people with not so advanced ages. Though rare, several cases of people suffering from the condition while still young have been identified. Stan Mikita, a retired professional ice hockey player, has been well-known to suffer dementia with Lewy bodies. The Slovak-born Canadian is regarded as one of the best players of the game in the 1960s. His memory and cognitive function are known to have been slowly waning for years since he was relatively young. Once old age caught up with him, his cognitive function rapidly deteriorated and a few months later, his diagnosis of Lewy body dementia was made public.

It is suspected that Mikita's problems could have started way back during his playing days due to the repeated concussions the players suffer during gameplay. Science has it that repeated head trauma can result in a progressive neurodegenerative disease known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The neurodegeneration eventually results in dementia. 

Lewy body dementia severely disrupts movement, thinking, sleep, movement, and behavior. Hallucinations and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may accompany it. Mikita’s family has no objection to giving out his brain for a postmortem on his demise to pave the way for further scientific research on the disease. An illness that could have started way back during his playing days, yet people so often mistake it as a disease of those who are elderly.

The Progression of Alzheimer's Disease and the Progression of Daily Home Care Needs

Most have heard the 'frog in a pot of water' theory. If a frog is put in a pot of hot water, it will jump out. If it is put in room temperature water and then the pot is heated, it adjusts until it is too late. This same idea can apply to adult children adjusting their daily care of elderly parents with Alzheimer's disease. Cognitive and physical decline associated with the disease may improve for a time with currently available treatments and medications, but the progression curve follows a rate of decline. The next step in daily care of elderly parents is sometimes delayed because adult children providing the care are taking on extra tasks a little at a time, not noticing the risks of trying to do it all.

Typical adult children caregiver scenarios often begin with medical setbacks such as slips or falls. They begin to take over a few tasks to help. Often, only one parent is affected by Alzheimer's or another condition that leads to cognitive and physical impairments that worsen over time. The unaffected spouse may suddenly be overwhelmed with new care tasks that puts their own health and safety at risk. Care often begins in stages with tasks, such as making sure the home is kept clean, helping with budgeting and making sure bills are paid on time. Newly prescribed medications may also require daily reminders.

At some point driving skills of those with Alzheimer's degrades to the point where they are no longer safe drivers. This stage often results in significant conflict due to the desire to maintain the freedom that driving brings and the adult children knowing that safety of parents with Alzheimer's and others on the road takes precedence. Transportation tasks are then taken over by children who are providing elderly parent care. This may also be the time adult children of parents with Alzheimer's realize their elderly parents may need more care than they can adequately provide, and the parents then fear commitment to a nursing facility.

The progression of Alzheimer's at some point in the future may require nursing care. However, that could be quite a long time from when daily home care is a necessity. The disease advances in stages and so should the amount of care given to parents who have Alzheimer's. Daily home care from Visiting Angels in Las Vegas is the next logical step when caring for elderly parents becomes too much for the adult children, but a point where assisted living or nursing home care is needed has not been reached yet.

Visiting Angels can take over many of the daily tasks that need completed and also provide social interaction and assistance with memory loss care, assistance with walking or completion of exercise routines, meal preparation, light housekeeping, running errands, transportation to appointments and even overnight care where the caregiver stays awake to offer help as needed. Probably the greatest service is one of companionship where the elderly parent knows that someone is there for conversation and is also ready to help. Daily home care services provided by Visiting Angels in Las Vegas eases the burden and removes the stress of elderly parent care.

Caring for a Loved One with Mobility Issues

When your loved one’s mobility decreases, he or she may suddenly need help doing a lot of the things that are necessary for daily living. The thought of lifting and assisting your loved one may be daunting, but it will become easier with time. Here are some tips for caring for a loved one with reduced mobility.

Respecting Your Loved One’s Independence
A decrease in mobility is a major loss for most people. Your loved one wants and needs to have as much control over his or her life as possible. Before you attempt to assist your loved one, be careful to explain what has to be done and why.

Staying Safe During Transfers
Transfers can be dangerous. You can make the process much safer by planning ahead, waiting for help if your loved one is too heavy, and following safety guidelines. These include keeping your legs slightly apart and your back straight while holding your loved one near to own body during the move, turning your whole body rather than just you waist, and wearing skid-proof shoes. To initiate the transfer, face your loved one while gently gripping beneath each arm. If you must carry your loved one, put one arm around him or her and under an armpit, then put the other under the knees.

Using a Wheelchair
A wheelchair can allow your loved one to continue many activities he or she loves, such as visiting, shopping, enjoying the outdoors, and attending religious services. However, getting into and out of the wheelchair must be done safely.

Before transferring your loved one to a wheelchair, adjust the height so that the rider’s thighs are at a 90 degree angle to his or her torso. Place a pad in the seat for comfort. Before you assist your loved one into the chair, lock the brakes and adjust the footrests to the side. Then use the general safety guidelines for transfers to help your loved one into the chair. Once your loved one is in the chair, move his or her feet apart to about shoulder width.

Always turn the chair backwards before going up stairs or over curbs or bumps. Whenever possible, make sure your loved one can see where you are going. Casually mention that you are approaching bumps, turns, stairs, ramps, or lifts. When it is time to get back into bed, use the safety guidelines for transfers again, this time gently lifting your loved one from the wheelchair.

Reach out for Help
Even the most dedicated caregiver needs help now and then. Enlist other family members to help care for your loved ones when needed, or ask for a helping hand from a professional such as Visiting Angels in Las Vegas.

Alzheimer’s Hostess Personality

In certain situations, older adults suffering from Alzheimer’s can display an uncanny ability to function normally. One of the most common situations where seniors with Alzheimer’s exhibit normal functionality is during visits to the doctor. The ability to conceal characteristics of dementia for a given duration is referred to as a Hostess Personality.





The emergence of a Hostess Personality has sometimes been accredited to fear and denial. If a person with Alzheimer’s is afraid of the repercussions of a doctor’s appointment, they will do their best to appear perfectly normal when they are with the doctor.

The Selective Engagement Theory

As a person gets older, their energy levels reduce, especially if they have a condition like Alzheimer’s. The reduction forces them to choose the activities that merit the use of their restricted personal resources. Any activities that are deemed relevant are undertaken while those of less importance are ignored.

The carrying out of complex mental tasks is more taxing for seniors with Alzheimer’s. They have to work harder to finish an activity and need a longer recovery time once they are done. The result is that they usually tend to sleep a lot after any mentally strenuous task.

According to the selective engagement theory, the elderly are highly motivated to overcome all their cognitive shortcomings in any situation that they consider to be of importance to them. A visit to the doctor is usually considered very important because, to someone with their condition, it could determine whether they can retain their independence or not. 

Dealing With a Hostess Personality

Sometimes, taking care of a person with a Hostess Personality can be a daunting task. If you take them to a doctor or report their behavior to family members, they will not display the symptoms that you ‘claim’ that they are exhibiting. Your credibility with the doctor or relatives may be put in doubt, leading to frustration.

The following methods can be used to deal with a Hostess Personality:

• Talk to your elderly relative and try to convince them that you have their best interests at heart. Assure them that revealing their affliction is not an attempt to get rid of them and that it is for their own good.
• Inform the doctor about what is happening privately. The doctor will know the best way to deal with the situation.

Although dealing with a relative who has Alzheimer’s can be difficult, especially if they exhibit a Hostess Personality, showing great care and devotion goes a long way in improving their condition. 

Taking care of an Alzheimer’s patient is usually a round-the-clock task. If you are not always available to be with them, hiring someone to take care of them in the familiar comfort of your home is the next best option.

Caring For A Loved One With Memory Loss

Even though many people do not mind helping their loved one, being a caregiver can be incredibly stressful. If the person is suffering from memory loss, then caring for him or her is even more difficult. Fortunately, there are many things that caregivers can do that will make it easier for them to care for their loved ones. Below is a list of tips that will help:

Get a Medical Diagnosis

Anybody who is suffering from memory loss should be examined by a physician. In many cases, memory loss is a side effect of a medication. It can also be a sign of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Keep in mind that there are many new medications that can treat Alzheimer's disease and dementia in their early stages. That is why it is essential for people who are suffering memory loss to see a physician.

Create a Care Plan

After your loved one has been examined and received a diagnosis, the next thing that you will want to do is outline a care plan. Take a person's short and long-term needs into consideration when you are creating a care plan. You may also want to ask a medical professional to help you create a care plan. Keep in mind that the care plan is likely to change.

Educate Yourself

It will be a lot easier for you to care for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or Dementia if you educate yourself about the condition. Talk to healthcare providers about the condition. Read brochures and books. You can also talk to other people who are caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or Dementia.

Safety-Proof the Home

There are a number of things that you can do to safety proof your home. You need to make sure that medications, household cleaners, knives, sharp objects and sewing needles are kept out of reach of your loved one. You will also need to adjust the temperature on your water heater. Lowering the temperature can prevent a person's chances of suffering a scalding burn.

Additionally, you may want to consider having grab bars installed in the bathtub. This will make it easier for your loved one to get in and out of the bathtub.

Take Some Time to Yourself

It is easy for caregivers to get overwhelmed. That is why they are more prone to high blood pressure and depression. You have to take time for yourself. Try to exercise every day. Include plenty of nutritious foods in your diet. Make sure that you get an adequate amount of sleep. Taking care of yourself will help prevent burnout.

You may also want to consider getting a professional caregiver to help your loved one. You can contact Visiting Angels of Las Vegas if you are interested in getting a professional caregiver to help you take care of your loved one.

Health And Independence Goals For The Elderly

As life expectancy increases, the issue of maintaining health and independence has become a priority, especially among the aging baby boomer population. Most seniors wish to remain at home and independent throughout their final years. Medical and technological advances make this more possible now than ever before. The following are some tips for seniors to ensure they remain active and healthy during their golden years.

1. Create a secure environment.

Safety should be at the forefront of every senior’s mind. Falls are the most common reason seniors lose their independence. Almost 500,000 people over age 65 are hospitalized each year due to fall-related injuries. Sadly, these injuries often lead to permanent disability and even death. The good news is falls are entirely preventable. Seniors and their families should conduct a thorough safety review of the home. The review should take into account the senior’s specific health, cognitive, and mobility related issues. Remember to reassess safety whenever there is a change in physical or mental status.

2. Embrace technology.

One of the most valuable pieces of technology for any senior is an emergency alert device. These devices instantly connect a person to emergency services with the touch of a button in the event of a fall or other accident. Assistive devices are available to make it easier for seniors to perform daily activities such as dressing, cooking, and bathing. Easy to operate electronic pill boxes are even available to remind seniors to take medication properly. Your doctor, medical supply company, or home health agency can help you find the right assistive devices for your situation.

3. Set healthcare goals.

The act of setting a goal often has a positive impact on a person’s overall outlook. Setting goals provides a sense of empowerment and control over one’s circumstances. Setting healthcare goals should be a collaborative effort involving the senior, their family, and the doctor. The goals should not try to fix everything at once. The goals should involve one or two specific steps the senior can take to improve their overall quality of life. For example, the doctor may advise the senior to increase exercise. The senior may not care about exercise or losing weight but may desire to remain in the home to be with a beloved dog. You can use the emotional connection to bring the two goals together by encouraging the senior to take more frequent walks with the dog.

Adapting Your Home On a Budget for Care of Senior Parents In Las Vegas

When the subject of elderly parents living with their adult children comes up, an idyllic scene of the old TV show "The Walton's" might come to mind where three generations lived in one big farmhouse. However, reality is quite different from a TV show. Today's average home is smaller, and adult children often have spouses, children and pets in homes where a parent or parents might be moving in. Regardless of whether the situation is temporary or permanent, caused by financial constraints or insurance coverage or just because of a debt of love, the change can be made much easier and safer by completing some simple home adaptations.

Common Needs In Senior Home Care

Compromised strength, range of motion and balance are the fundamentals considered when adapting homes for their care. Compromised cognitive abilities may also apply. The degree of severity differs for each person needing care, but typically adaptive needs are similar. The most dangerous room in homes for elders has always been the bathroom. Slips and falls that cause serious injury mostly occur there. Thresholds transitioning from one floor surface to another, from one room to another and from indoors to outdoors are another high hazard area. Burns while preparing food, navigating stairs and tripping over throw rugs, objects left on the floor and furniture edges are also common. Adaptive equipment minimizes injury potential.

Examples of Easy Home Adaptations to Enhance Senior Care

The first changes should be in the bathroom. Adding shower/tub chairs, elevated toilet seats and non-slip surfaces to floors, tubs and showers is a must. Most of these devices are available in practically any department store pharmacy at a low cost with no professional home renovations being required. Thresholds can be made safely navigable by walkers and wheelchairs by installing threshold ramps available at home supply centers. The rubber ones are available in different heights, and installation only involves placing them at the door like a door mat. Telescoping grab handles make it easier for seniors to retrieve light objects that have fallen onto the floor or are stored in overhead cabinets. Having favorite microwaveable foods always available helps to prevent burns and potential fires from stove cooking.

Caregiver Training Is Part of Home Adaptation

All of the best devices that aid with adult children providing care to elderly parents cannot compare to proper training. An example is patient lifts available in most care facilities. They are quite expensive but make it easy to lift the full weight of a person. However, there are proper lifting methods that make it much easier to do routine lifts of seniors who have difficulty standing. Knowledge of proper lifting procedures takes the strain off of caregivers and reduces the risk of injury for both seniors and caregivers. Training on methods such as this are available but may require asking medical professionals involved in senior care for advice on how to obtain it.

It would be nice if every home where seniors are cared for could be adapted using the latest technologies and equipment, but the reality is that families are most often under the strain of compromising on space and costs. Still, a little forethought and asking for help from available professionals can make the adaptation of a home to provide safe senior home care much easier, even on the tightest of budgets.

Las Vegas' Own Visiting Angels Sponsores The SuperBrains

Gear Up for the SuperBrains Event Sponsored by Las Vegas’ Own Visiting Angels and Hosted by The Cleveland Clinic

If you’re a psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, social worker, educator or allied health professional, clear your calendar for May 15 and 16 – Visiting Angels is proud to announce that we will be sponsoring the SuperBrains: Exploring the Neuroscience of Extraordinary Abilities event, hosted by The Cleveland Clinic, with conferences taking place at both the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino and Keep Memory Alive Event Center. With an educational focus on a better understanding of the brain’s neuroscience behaviors and showcasing examples of exceptional human abilities and behavior, SuperBrains is poised to represent an invaluable source for information pertaining to positive neuroscience.

If optimization and enhancement of quality of life for patients is something you deem important – as well as for your colleagues and even yourself – the SuperBrains conference is the place to be on May 15 and 16. Healthcare providers will learn everything there is to know about the positive influences of neuroscience for the purpose of enhancing their own clinical practices, and upon completion of the program participants will be in a position to explain how the brain changes in response to a specific task and subject matter, demonstrate successful “brain aging” analysis as well as identify the underlying factors that contribute to cognitive longevity, discuss the ins and outs of “neural underpinnings” in relation to humor development and its lifetime influence on resilience, describe the differences between everyday creativity and exceptional creativity…and much more.

At the heart of the SuperBrains event will be Sarah Banks, PhD/ABPPN/CN, head of the Neuropsychology Program at The Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas, who has been appointed course director for the program. Sarah brings a wealth of experience and expertise qualifications encompassing patient cognitive profile characterizations, as well as the integration of this information with medical and psychological factors to aid in diagnosis and appropriate intervention techniques. Adding to her already formidable background is the fact that she is an expert in assessing patients with disorders including dementia, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease – to say nothing of her work with patients suffering with other neurological conditions.

SuperBrains will take place at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center on Friday, May 15 and at Las Vegas' iconic Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino on Saturday, May 16.

SuperBrains: Exploring the Neuroscience of Extraordinary Abilities is an experience not to be missed. Interested parties can visit http://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/live/courses/2015/superbrains15/ for details regarding registration and what the event is all about.

Working Through An Elderly Loved One's Resistance To Care

We face a number of challenges as we get older. Sometimes, our older loved ones are resistant to the idea of receiving assistance or additional care. It can be frightening to feel like one's independence is being infringed upon. Your loved one may have spent their life working hard to create a great life for the people they care about. Now, they are looking into a future where that may need to change. That is an intimidating prospect for anyone.

So let's take a look at some ways to help an elderly loved one move past their fears and discomfort.

1. Identify the reasons for hesitation and resistance.
The best place to start is at the beginning. Have a frank discussion about the challenges your loved one is facing and how they envision their future care. Explore your loved one's point of view. Chances are good they won't come straight out and give specific reasons; but they may provide enough information in context clues to figure it out. Wait for a relatively calm time to have this discussion.

2. Explain your own needs in relation to their care.
The elderly of today faced different social circumstances than younger people do today. It was not uncommon to expect family to contribute to care when they were younger. Unfortunately, there are many people out there working two jobs to take care of their own families or stay afloat. Being a caretaker and staying afloat just isn't possible for many. Explain your own life situation clearly so your elderly loved one can also understand the challenges you're facing in your own life and how homecare assistance will help you.

3. Reinforce that your loved one does have choices.
A trial run is a good way to get your loved one used to the idea of assistance. This will give them an opportunity to develop some rapport with the caregiver and see how valuable they can be. Furthermore, reinforce that they do have a choice in caregivers. It can be uncomfortable to know that you're going to have a stranger in your home. Assure them they do have recourse if they don't like the caregiver or there is a personality clash.

4. Assisting caregivers can extend independence and autonomy.
The point most overlooked about assisted care is how it can extend independence. The human body simply does not hold up as well as we get older. That makes doing chores like laundry, hauling things up and down stairs, much more dangerous. A serious sickness, bad fall, or broken bones can result in your elderly loved one needing to go into an assisted living home. On the other hand, an assisting caregiver can provide the help your loved one needs to stay safe and healthy in their own home.

Assisting caregivers can significantly improve the quality of life of elderly loved ones. Contact Visiting Angels today to see how we help our clients maintain a safe, high quality of life in their own home.

Las Vegas Senior Friendly Activities

Despite a youthful image, Las Vegas hosts multiple hot spots for seniors. People have even chosen Las Vegas as a popular retirement destination because retirees have countless entertainment options. If you are visiting Las Vegas and want to take part in activities that your loved one will not be able to participate in, Visiting Angels, a Las Vegas in-homecare company, can help your elderly family member see the sights while you can enjoy a show or activity that your family member wouldn't relish. 

Touring

Buses have become increasingly popular, and your loved one can sit back and enjoy a ride to the Hoover Dam or the Grand Canyon. They can enjoy the gift shops and pick up mementos as they go. Otherwise, our caregivers could give them a ride down the strip to see the hallmark sites of Vegas. 

Museums of Vegas

With the surrounding desert, you have a location that was once the location of the nuclear testing facility for the atom bomb. While you will not see mushroom clouds in the sky, your loved one may be interested in the Atomic Testing Museum. This location features great exhibits such as pieces from the Berlin Wall, and there are artifacts from the World Trade Centers. However, if your loved one enjoys fine art, we could show them the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, which features world-class art from some of the most influential artists in the industry. Visitors will feast their eyes upon golden cigar cases, hardstone animals, jewel encrusted brooches, decorative boxes and enamel picture frames. With more than 200 elegant objects from the famous Russian Czars Alexander III and his successor Nicholas II, your loved one will have the chance to view imperial Easter eggs. 

Gamble at the Chance to Win Millions

When you visit Las Vegas, few places offer a better chance to gamble for the chance to win millions. The loud revelry of Downtown might be too much, but we could show your loved one some of the local spots that often cater to the older generation and provide less noise, less distraction and a lower bet limit. These locations include:

• Sam's Town
• Texas
• Station Casinos

The Shows of Vegas

Las Vegas shows cater to a variety of age groups, but some of the more popular choices for seniors include:

• Viva Elvis in City Center
• Rita Rudner
• Mystere at TI
• O at Bellagio
• Blue Man Group at the Monte Carlo

When you visit Las Vegas, Visiting Angels can help to guarantee that both you and your loved one have a great experience. In addition to helping your loved one enjoy the best of Vegas, we can also provide in-homecare at the hotel while the younger family members enjoy a show if that is what's required.

Is It Alzheimer's Disease Or "Just Getting Old"?

If you are getting up there in years, your memory may not seem quite as sharp as it used to be. Then again, your memory may be starting to slip in some rather unusual ways. For many aging adults, the fear of being victims of Alzheimer disease is a very real concern. But, do not panic if you cannot remember important dates or if you forget which grandson's birthday it is. Some of these annoying slips and skips in memory are nothing more than perfectly normal signs of aging. Sometimes it is a sign that you just need to challenge your brain to be more active. If you believe you are experiencing serious problems with your memory, here are a few ways to tell if Alzheimer's disease may be to blame.

Chronically Repeating Requests for the Same Information

One of the signs of Alzheimer's disease is seen when a person constantly asks others to repeat the same information over and over again. If this happens once in a while, it may simply be a sign that they are a little forgetful; however, when it is a chronic occurrence, it suggests that something more serious may be going on upstairs. People who suffer with a chronic state of looping requests for the same information may not even know they are doing it. From their perspective, each time they ask will undoubtedly seem like it is the first time they are asking.

Misplacing Objects

It is normal for an aging person to visit a friend and walk out the door without their keys. They may even forget where they put their keys or parked their car. In the case of a person suffering with Alzheimer's disease, this problem is a lot more advanced. Instead of simply forgetting where a person has placed an object, the misplacing of objects get stranger and more frequent. They might leave their socks in the kitchen sink and hang their tie on the deadbolt slot near the front door of their home. To the average onlooker, these types of associations involved in the misplacement of objects will tend to be obviously uncommon or out of place.




Misunderstanding the Function of Objects
Another common sign of Alzheimer's disease is when people appear to misunderstand how to use a common every day object. If a person tries to shave their face with a phone receiver, or attempts to answer their electric shaver, then you may have a classic Alzheimer's patient on your hands. On the other hand, if a person simply needs help figuring out how to program their digital clock, use the remote to their television or set their microwave to the right setting, this is more likely an age-related slip in memory function.

The Loss of Time and Spacial Confusion

When a person gets older, it is common to forget what day it is. It is also common to take a wrong turn and get lost while driving. Often, with a little thought and effort, these mistakes will be easily corrected by a person with a properly functioning mind. On the other hand, if a person starts to notice large gaps in time are missing, this could tend to be a more classic sign of Alzheimer's disease. Another classic sign is when an elderly person all-of-a-sudden becomes very confused as to where they are or how they got there. Such skips in spacial memory suggest that the memory pathway outlining the steps being covered from one moment to the next are not being held in short term memory. If this occurs often, then chances are that Alzheimer's may be to blame.

Conclusion
Growing old will inevitably bring with it a senior moment or two. It is normal to experience some trouble getting the aging neurons in one's brain to fire off like they used to do. Although it can be frustrating to learn that your mind is not like the steel trap it used to be, this does not necessarily imply that you are in danger of Alzheimer's disease; however, if you start to experience genuinely strange lapses in memory, it may be time to be checked out by a physician.

Getting Help After a Hospital Discharge

When you or a loved one returns home from the hospital, you may experience an initial period of relief to be home followed by a fear of what comes next. Many Las Vegas residents find that they need some extra support after returning home.

 

Why Get Help?

Often, it takes time for a person to fully recover after returning home from the hospital. You may find that you have less energy or physical strength after spending days or weeks in a hospital. Rarely do people leave the hospital fully healed from their illness or injury. Treatment and healing need to continue at home, but going out to see a doctor or living at home without support can be challenging and stressful for you and your family.

Individuals who are not fully recovered may feel anxious about completing daily tasks or fearful about falling. Family members and loved ones may find that they are not able to help as much as they would like without effecting their own responsibilities and life. This conflict can create stress and even damage relationships.

What Type of Support is Available?

Depending on your situation, you might benefit from professional in-home care, such as physical therapy, nursing care, or occupational therapy. In-home care professionals are trained to not only help you with special medical needs but they can also help you with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, or cooking. Finally, many people who are receiving support at home benefit from having a social worker to help navigate and coordinate the process.

Can I Afford Home Care?

In the U.S., Medicare pays for some types of home health care. If your doctor agrees that you are in need of medical support and are not able to get it out of the home, Medicare may cover some of your needed services, including paying for physical therapy, home nursing, and necessary supplies. Medicare generally will not pay for non-medical services, such as assistance with preparing meals.

If your insurance does not cover what you need, you may be able to pay out of pocket for in-home care through a home healthcare agency. The first step in the process is to identify the types of support that you need and how often you need them. A home healthcare agency can help you to develop an individualized care plan.

If you have recently returned home from the hospital and find yourself struggling, in-home care may be what you need to remain safe and out of the hospital. Having just a little extra support can help you and your family to feel more confident and less stressed during this difficult time.

The Truth About In-Home Care Services!

One of the most difficult issues a family may have to deal with can occur when an elderly loved one is no longer able to tend to their daily needs by themselves. This type of situation can happen because of old age, illness or other medical conditions. While the elderly family member may realize they cannot take care of themselves, they generally will not want to leave their home and move into an assisted living facility. This can often create a problem for the rest of the family.

Most family members would prefer to handle the care for their loved one on their own. However, they may have other obligations, which can make this impossible. In these types of circumstances, hiring a homecare provider may be a great alternative. Homecare services are designed to help families and their loved ones cope with these types of situations.


Unfortunately, many people are hesitant to use this type of service due to some of the negative information they may have heard about them. Since the majority of this information is based on myths, it can help to know the real facts.

Homecare Service Myths, Busted!

Myth 1 – An Elderly Person will lose his or her Independence

Many elderly people may not want assistance in their home for fear they will lose their independence. They may fear that by allowing someone to help them take care of their needs, they will lose their right to do things for themselves or even make decisions.

This is generally not true at all. The agency or homecare worker will work for the family or the elderly individual directly. They must conform to their wishes. In addition, generally by having assistance in the home an individual will have more independence and freedom. He or she will be able to move about the home without worries of falling and no one being there to help. By having a homecare worker tending to some of the household tasks that are too difficult for a senior to handle, many times he or she will have more energy to do things that are more enjoyable.

Myth 2 – Services are only for the Seriously Ill

Sometimes elderly people or their family may think homecare is only designed to help those people who have serious illnesses.

This is not necessarily accurate. Some services, do only deal with patients who have medical conditions that make homecare more of a necessity. However, there are also services that focus primarily on helping a senior deal with the activities of daily living. This can include things such as the following:

• Meal preparation
• Hygiene assistance (including bathing or showering) and dressing assistance
• Ambulatory or transferring assistance
• Providing transportation or running errands
• Doing light housework
• Acting as a companion including engaging a care recipient with memory loss in mental or physical activities.

Myth 3 - All Caregivers Operate Independently

Fortunately, a family can choose from a number of different types of homecare options. This can make it easier to find a caregiver who will fit the needs of the family and their loved one.

Many services are run by an agency that hires caregivers as employees. They screen and perform background checks on all the caregivers before they are hired or sent to a client's home. The agency makes sure they are well trained and have any certifications they may need as well. The client deals with the agency about their requirements in a caregiver and the types of tasks they wish performed. If there are any changes to this or issues with a particular caregiver, the agency will deal with the problem. This can be a great choice for the client since they do not have to worry about any type of employee issues.

Some people may prefer to hire a caregiver directly. In this type of situation, the caregiver will be the employee of the family or the elderly person. There will be payroll taxes to worry about, insurance, worker's compensation and more for the family or senior to deal with. In addition, if the employee is not doing their job well or needs time off for this will also have to be dealt with by the senior or their family. This can often be more work than a family may be able to handle.

A third option is an independent caregiver. These people run their own business for the most part, even if they are the only employee. They set their own rules and working conditions. They do handle their payroll taxes and workers compensation. They will not be covered by liability or bond insurance unless they purchase it on their own. If there is a problem with an independent contractor, the family or the senior will need to speak to the caregiver directly about the issue. The family should obtain background or criminal history checks. However, they must see to them on their own.

Myth 4 – People Working in Homecare Services Do Not Care about their Clients

This is definitely not true. Most homecare services are staffed by very caring and compassionate people who want to make things easier for a senior and his or her family. Many times these workers become so close to their clients, they are treated almost like close family. While there are some people who may not work well together, most agencies will quickly remove the caregiver and provide a different worker to handle the job.

Myth 5 – Homecare Workers Treat the Elderly Badly

Many people are worried they might hire someone to help their loved one and they will become abusive to them. This is not an accepted practice. When hiring a service, they diligently screen their staff to ensure they are not hiring people with any type of history of these types of actions. In addition, a service often has supervisors and managers who make random visits to their client's homes to make sure the elderly person is getting the care he or she needs. While there are some situations where abuse has occurred, most caregivers are honest and care about the people they help.

Myth 6 – Agencies decide who will be sent to the Home

In most situations, an agency representative will first meet with the family and/or elderly person to discuss the type of person they would prefer having in the home. With this information, the agency will screen caregivers until a good match can be found. If an issue develops with the chosen caregiver, most agencies will do everything they can to correct the problem quickly and efficiently. The goal of most agencies is to make sure the family and the elderly person are comfortable with those in their home and they do what they can to achieve this.

Myth 7 – Only People who need Around the Clock Care can hire a Service

This is generally not the case at all. When it comes to dealing with helping elderly patients, most services realize they may not need care all the time. Many times, a person may only need assistance when they first get up in the morning. They may need help bathing, dressing, preparing a meal and doing some housework. After these tasks are completed, they may not need any assistance again until it is time for them to go to bed.

Most services will work with the senior and his or her family to set up a schedule, which provides care when the senior needs it but also gives them as much time as they wish to be on their own. In most cases, a quality service will not have limitations or minimums on the amount of time their services are needed.

Myth 8 – In Home Care is Expensive

Fortunately, many homecare services have very affordable options for elderly people and their families. In most cases, hiring a homecare service is much more economical than a daycare facility or assisted living facility might be. However, the actual cost of care will vary depending on several factors such as:

• Hours Required – This includes the number of hours the service is needed in the home on a daily or weekly basis.
• Tasks Performed – Costs for some services may be more than others are. For instance, transportation to and from appointments would include a mileage rate.

Myth 9 - Homecare is not needed because the Senior Lives with Family

Many people may think having their family around makes hiring a homecare service unnecessary. This is generally not the case. Today many people are very busy in their daily lives. With jobs, kids and other commitments they often do not have enough hours in the day to tend to their own needs. Having a family member who needs extra help can often be too much. While there are times when they can handle all the responsibilities well, other times they may need help from a home care service.

Myth 10 – It is Risky to Receive in Homecare

Some people worry about the health risks involved in receiving any type of homecare. However, many times a person will do much better physically and mentally when they are in their own familiar settings. In addition, a homecare worker will provide one-one-one care to the senior. This makes it possible for the worker to get to know the person and they can notice any subtle changes in the actions or abilities of the elderly individual. Many times the worker can alert the family so a medical professional can examine the person.

Myth 11 - Homecare is just for Elderly People

Most people who request homecare are seniors or those who are sick. This does not mean that homecare is not available for anyone over the age of 18. There are many other situations where using homecare may be a wise choice. For instance, a family may have a disabled adult child who needs some assistance.

Myth 12 – People who are unable to Care for Themselves Should be in a Facility

Some elderly people feel that if they cannot handle all their own daily living activities, they should be in a facility. As people age they will naturally begin to lose certain abilities, whether it is strength in their hands, eyesight, hearing or other issues. This is all a normal part of the aging process. It is true they may be unable to do certain household tasks or handle some personal grooming issues on their own. However, there is still much they can contribute to those who around them. By having help with the mundane tasks, they will be able to focus on the important ones.

Myth 13 – It is not safe to have Strangers in the Home

There are some cases where a homecare worker has been caught stealing from the person they are supposed to be helping. However, if background and criminal checks have been run on a potential worker, the likelihood of this happening is much less. Most agencies are very cautious about these issues and make sure their workers are supervised and held accountable while they are working in a client's home.

Myth 14 – Seniors who need Around the Clock Care are not eligible for Homecare

A homecare service will generally be able to accommodate any type of hours or schedule an elderly patient needs. This is because they have a staff of workers who can take various shifts around the clock to ensure the person is never alone if this is requested.

Myth 15 – You have to know what type of Services an Elderly Person Needs before Contacting an Agency

It can be a good idea to have an idea of what services an elderly person will need. However, most agencies will be able to make changes as things progress. Often the best way to determine what type of help a person needs is by having someone there with them through their routines. If there are areas where the individual needs help, these can be added to the overall care plan.

For many people who have aged family members trying to find their loved one the assistance they need may seem like a daunting prospect. By using homecare agencies or workers, this issue can be much easier to handle than one might think.