What Everyone in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Having Better Conversations with Senior Family Members
Conversations with seniors open up a world of curiosity with plenty to discuss. Today’s seniors have lived through significant historical events and changes – from the Great Depression and World War II to rapid-fire advances in technology and medical science.
Conversations with Seniors: A Collection of Treasured Experiences
Along the way, through challenging and prosperous times, they have collected a treasure trove of experiences and wisdom that could guide us today and in the future. That is if we do not let time getaway. We need to create opportunities now, while we can, for seniors to share their life stories with younger generations.
Intergenerational conversations—in various settings—can enrich younger people’s lives while giving seniors precious opportunities to relive their vivid tapestry of experience. As a result, one generation gains a new understanding and respect for the other.
Stories for All Generations
Over time, many seniors share their experiences, one by one, with family and friends. That is good, but often, they are only spoken and not written down or recorded. Many times, they are passed along only to immediate family members and not others who may lack strong family ties of their own, thus missing out on chances to swap stories with older adults.
Equipping yourself and family members with a few suggestions to help bridge the generation gap and keep your aging loved one’s memories alive.
Conversations with Seniors: 6 Tips to Bridge the Generational Gap and Keep Memories Alive:
Tip #1. Enhance the Quality of Life with In-Home Care:
To enhance the quality of life of seniors, in-home care providers can encourage seniors to reminisce and recall important times in their lives. They can also help them or encourage them to write narratives about these experiences to share with family. This fits nicely with Comfort Keepers®’ unique approach to care called Interactive CaregivingTM, which engages seniors in activities that promote their physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Tip #2. Share with Your Religious Community:
More and more, religious institutions are arranging special opportunities for young and old to share. If you do not have something like this planned at your church or synagogue, take the lead. How about a congregation-wide birthday party where members of all generations sit together by birth month, share cake and ice cream, and get to know one another as they compare notes about what it was like to grow up in their respective periods?
Tip #3. Share Historical Experiences for Educational Benefit:
At schools – Seniors can add an important dimension to history lessons, from elementary school to college classrooms. They can provide first-person accounts and breathe life into the dry pages of history books. Some teachers assign students to interview seniors and write down their impressions and memories or videotape seniors’ recollections.
Tip #4. Share and Socialize at a Senior’s Community Center:
Senior centers also plan occasions that bring generations together, for instance, to recognize seniors for their service as veterans or community leaders. Senior centers often host writing classes and programs to teach seniors how to write their life stories to share with family and friends.
Tip #5. Share Stories at Family Gatherings:
There may not be time during a reunion, between eating and lawn games, to write your family elders’ life stories. But a family reunion can be a good place to get started, as the storytelling and reminiscing unfold. At this opportune time, you could suggest putting these stories in writing. Maybe there is a budding young author or two in the family along with a gifted writer who could coordinate the project. And by the next reunion, they could have a volume of life stories to give everyone.
Tip #6. Document and Preserve Senior Experiences:
Life story writing has become a growing enterprise. Many entrepreneurs have launched businesses to help people who want to preserve their or a loved one’s experiences. There also are plenty of Web sites that offer do-it-yourself advice. Just Google “writing your life story.” The reality is that intergenerational conversations can take place anytime there is a group willing to share their stories and keep the memories going.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
12 Signs You Are Experiencing Caregiver Compassion Fatigue
Everything Caregivers Need to Know About Experiencing Compassion Fatigue in Edmonton, AB
Are You Experiencing Caregiver Compassion Fatigue? When family or friends must care for a loved one, symptoms of chronic stress are likely to appear. The caregiver can suffer emotionally and physically from the loving care they’re providing to someone else.
This common problem, called compassion fatigue, is a term given to caregivers who might be helping someone injured, ill, or traumatized.
Caregivers usually have the best intentions as they help, but someone who is elderly, ill, or incapacitated can be an overwhelming burden on one’s mental, physical, and emotional abilities.
Compassion Fatigue VS Burnout
Compassion fatigue is similar to burnout but is more unpredictable in its onset. Burnout usually takes longer to emerge whereas symptoms of compassion fatigue can arrive suddenly. Burnout can be so severe that someone experiencing it will even find it necessary to leave a job, or even an occupation entirely.
With compassion fatigue, someone can typically be treated much more easily, but there are specific things one must do for self-care while providing care for a loved one.
Is Respite Care the Answer?
It’s mandatory to rejuvenate between caregiving shifts. Compassion fatigue may create intense emotional pain and physical fatigue. Caregivers must watch for symptoms and then learn the tools to manage the stress healthily. If providing care for a senior parent, friend, or loved one, ask for assistance before things get too hard on you.
12 Common Symptoms of Caregiver Compassion Fatigue:
- Feelings of inequity toward the caregiver relationship
- Loss of meaning in caregiving
- Withdrawal, isolation, or feelings of being disconnected
- Apathy or a lower threshold for compassion or empathy
- Problems arising in other relationships
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss
- Destructive behaviours or substance abuse
- Unexplained headaches
- Anger, irritability, anxiety
- Chronic exhaustion (emotional or physical)
- Feelings of dread, impending disaster, or guilt
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
Activities For Edmonton Seniors For All Seasons
What Every Family Caregiver Needs to Know About Safe Senior Activities for Every Season!
What do you need to know about activities for Edmonton seniors? No matter how young or old we are, we need to be active and participate in activities that we like. This is what makes our lives more fulfilling and gives us joy and something to look forward to.
Some activities may become challenging as we age, but seniors must take part in those activities they particularly enjoy. According to studies, seniors who are physically, mentally, and socially engaged are healthier and are less depressed or lonely.
Fortunately, there are now more opportunities than ever for seniors to engage in senior-friendly activities. It is just a matter of teamwork between the family, caregivers, and health professionals to come up with a plan that lets older adults take part in activities they love.
Activities For Edmonton Seniors: Winter
Some of the most popular activities in winter are:
- Holiday shopping is both a physical activity and an opportunity for bonding with family or friends.
- Listening to music, dancing or playing instruments, allows seniors to have some fun when they are unable to go outdoors due to bad weather. These are also good activities for older adults with mobility issues.
- Volunteering, lets older adults stay connected with their community and give back to the less fortunate.
Activities For Edmonton Seniors: Spring
Seniors particularly enjoy the following activities in spring:
- Exercising enables seniors to establish a new routine with the arrival of nicer weather, meet new people, and improve their health.
- Spring cleaning, which can be done with the whole family can be an excellent opportunity to make senior homes safer.
- Celebrating holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, Easter, and Mother’s Day allows older adults to enjoy themselves with the people they love.
- Gardening is an excellent hobby for seniors who like spending time outdoors.
Activities For Edmonton Seniors: Summer
Some of the most loved summer activities among seniors are:
- Water aerobics does not put a strain on the joints but allows seniors to boost their health, relax after a hot day, and make new friends.
- Spending time indoors, including at the local shopping mall, at the movies, at museums, and more, all of which enables older adults to stay active throughout the warmest of days as well.
- Picnics, BBQs, and outdoor concerts are great opportunities for spending time with the whole family.
Activities For Edmonton Seniors: Fall
In the fall, seniors can participate in these activities:
- Watching a game of football, baseball, and hockey, can be done at stadiums and home, both with family and with friends.
- Enjoying fall foliage is a particularly interesting activity for seniors who enjoy hiking or spending time in nature.
- Organizing family dinners or Halloween parties, which bring joy to the whole family and enable older adults to show off their cooking skills.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, and companionship care. We also provide end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
Senior Occupational Therapy for Optimal Health
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Occupational Therapy
What is senior occupational therapy? Occupational therapy helps seniors lead independent and productive by allowing them to recover or develop the skills needed for daily life. This practice has been known to be quite beneficial for seniors who feel they can no longer meet day-to-day physical and mental challenges.
Those who work in occupational therapy work to understand an individual’s specific needs. They assess by talking with the client, their family members, friends, and their primary doctor/physician.
Therapists evaluate medical history, eating/sleeping patterns, and other behavioural patterns that can help form a thorough assessment. From there, they will develop a plan comprised of specific recommendations and techniques conducive to meeting his or her goals.
The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Seniors
Conditions such as arthritis or diabetes can make life difficult. Many seniors receive occupational therapy to help perform activities of daily living (ADLs). Everything from bathing and toileting to getting dressed in the morning.
Despite a diminished range of motion or mobility, the goal is to help seniors move and function and overcome physical challenges. That being said, occupational therapy is not limited to improving physical functionality. Therapists can use a variety of techniques to help improve memory and cognitive ability, as well.
Four Tips About How Occupational Therapy Can Help Seniors:
Tip #1 – Overcoming daily challenges:
For seniors, physical barriers can feel monumental and add to what they may feel. Therapists will work to form strategies that assist seniors in doing the things they used to or want to do. Above all, therapists help seniors overcome limitations and/or identify alternatives.
Tip #2 – Modifying the home:
Some ADLs simply can’t be completed without some form of environmental assistance. Therapists may recommend that improvements or modifications be made in the home. This can include; balance and stability devices like railings, mats, and grip bars, or providing modified utensils that can make eating easier. Changes like these can make a significant difference for those suffering from arthritis or Parkinson’s.
The benefit of a therapist helping to modify the home is twofold: on one hand, it helps improve functionality, and on the other, it enhances the safety of the overall environment.
Tip #3 – Improving mental well-being:
As mentioned, occupational therapy does not revolve solely around improving physical well-being. Referrals received from doctors to reduce stress or anxiety can be incorporated into the care provided by an occupational therapist by way of relaxation exercises and techniques.
Similarly, therapists can utilize various activities to help improve cognition, with crossword puzzles or memory games.
Tip #4 – Promoting independence:
Therapists are instructed to help improve quality of life, not just within a short period, but for a lifetime – and that begins with taking into account what challenges a senior wishes to overcome, day in and day out. The key to occupational therapy is teaching an individual how to continue meeting their goals and completing ADLS after therapy has ended.
How Comfort Keepers® Can Help Edmonton’s Seniors
Occupational therapists can provide direct communication to the Comfort Keepers team, informing them of changes in a client’s behaviour or specific needs. From there, our caregivers can reinforce prescribed techniques and strategies designed to help seniors meet their goals and maintain independence.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, and companionship care. In addition to end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
- SeniorsMatter. “Occupational Therapists for Seniors” by Alison McIntosh. Web. 2017.
- LiveStrong. “OT Exercises for Seniors” by Ashely Miller. Web. 2014.
- TopOccupationalTherapySchool. “Occupational Therapy for Seniors – What are the Key Benefits?” Web. 2016.
- LiveScience. “What is Occupational Therapy?” by Stephanie Pappas. Web. 2014.
The Key to Maintaining Senior Brain Health Late in Life
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Optimal Brain Health and Function
Senior Brain Health | When it comes to exploring the brain, with each breakthrough the scientific community makes, new unprecedented questions arise. While this is certainly positive it allows research to become more focused and illuminates that the brain is vastly and endlessly complex.
Senior Brain Health FAST FACT: Even though the human brain represents only two percent of the body’s weight, it receives nearly a quarter of the body’s total blood supply.
Despite all of its mysteries, one thing we do know is that the brain – like all of our organs – does indeed age. As we get older, the brain’s overall volume gradually decreases (at approximately 5% per decade after the age of 40), causing nerve cells to lose certain connections. Reduction in blood flow and certain cardiovascular conditions can add to this as well.
For seniors, these factors may lead to occasional forgetfulness or lapses in memory. Significant memory loss, however, is not a normal part of aging and may be indicative of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Seniors who are experiencing memory loss or have had problems with language skills, perception, or other mental functions must address these concerns with a physician.
Senior Brain Health: Four Ways to Keep the Senior Brain Healthy
Research suggests that there are several strategies seniors can adopt to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These may also benefit overall health. Encourage your aging loved ones to incorporate the following practices into their daily routine. However, before starting any new exercise program or dietary changes, ensure they consult with a physician and dietitian.
#1. Stimulation:
In the last few years, there have been numerous research studies in the area of neurological plasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to structurally modify in response to new experiences. This “re-wiring” of nerve cells is actually what is at the center of most cognitive and physical rehabilitation practices.
However, it essentially serves the same function for those looking to keep their brains healthy, and it can be done simply by learning new skills or keeping the brain regularly “exercised” through puzzles or games.
Many suggest that seniors enroll in a class or other form of organized learning – which will help not only in developing new skills but also in cultivating socialization.
#2. Exercise Regularly:
While it’s not exactly news that exercise is good for the body, it may come as a surprise to some that regular exercise also has quite an impact on mental health. Physical activity improves cardiovascular health, which in turn helps supply the brain with blood.
It also helps in developing new/increasing existing neural connections (see neurological plasticity above), allowing the brain to be more adaptive. Research suggests that regular exercise can also significantly reduce mental stress.
Some seniors may choose to join a class with close friends for exercise, but it can just as easily be done at home. The key is to ensure that the heart rate is elevated through moderate activity, for at least 20-30 minutes every day.
#3. Watch Your Diet:
The food we consume has a direct effect on our mental wellbeing and health. To operate at its optimum level, the brain requires fuel in the form of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
If your current diet consists primarily of salt, sugar, fat, and refined/processed foods, consider switching things around. Studies show that diets consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, sources of B vitamins, and lean meats can significantly reduce anxiety levels and even the risk of depression.
#4. Stay Social:
Although it’s not entirely understood how socialization bolsters brain health, studies show that a correlation between having strong social connections and longer life expectancy does exist. Interaction, whether it be with friends, family members, or next-door neighbours, appears to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall mental well-being.
This is especially evident in those who volunteer their time to help others. Try reaching out through organizations, community centers, or schools to see how you can help make a positive impact on others – and the health of your brain.
Senior Brain Health Best Practices for Optimal Brain Function
What unifies all of these best practices for maintaining brain health? The key, as countless scientific studies would suggest, is engagement.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton Can Help!
If your loved ones are working to improve their mental well-being and want to incorporate the aforementioned best practices into their lifestyle, we can help.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
- Harvard Health Publications. “12 Ways to Keep Your Brain Young.” Web. 2006.
- Everyday Health. “How to Stay Sharp As You Age” by Krisha McCoy. Web. 2017.
- Brain Facts. “What We Know – and Don’t Know – About Aging.” Web. 2012.
- National Institute on Aging. “The Aging Brain.” Web. 2017.
Alzheimer’s Communication: Tips for Seniors, Families and Caregivers
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Alzheimer’s Communication Tips
Alzheimer’s Communication Tips | The most debilitative and indicative symptom of Alzheimer’s is the gradual loss of words. Understanding this is crucial to basic communication that most of us take for granted.
Alzheimer’s patients realize there is a problem, even though they may not have the capacity to understand what is happening. This can cause instances of confusion, fright, and frustration for the sufferer of Alzheimer’s disease as well as for loved ones and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s.
To help those dealing with seniors who are suffering from Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association™ suggests the following tips to achieve better communication despite the disease.
Alzheimer’s Communication Tips for Seniors
Tip #1 – Changes in Communication and Behaviour
It is important to learn to recognize the changes in communication and behaviour in those with Alzheimer’s. Secondly, learn how to assist in communication, and then to identify and adapt to efficient ways of communication unique to the individual Alzheimer’s sufferer.
Tip #2 – Be Patient and Supportive
Know that is important to be not only patient but also supportive when trying to communicate. Take the time to listen with no interruptions or criticisms. Offer reassurance that they can take their time to try to form their thoughts into proper words and try not to correct any misused words.
Tip #3 – Focus on Emotion, Nuances and Voice Tone
Many times there is meaning behind those words and if you take the time you may discover what that is. Focus on the emotion that may lie within the words. Nuances in voice tone as well as hand gestures or facial expressions can be critical for you to observe and analyze to determine the meaning behind the words being spoken.
Tip #4 – Remain Calm and Practice Patience
At times you may become angry or frustrated yourself but understand that criticizing or arguing only serves to increase levels of discomfort and agitation for those with Alzheimer’s. Instead, practice patience and offer occasional suggestions for words they are trying to speak. When appropriate, retreat to a quiet place to communicate.
Tip #5 – Over Stimulation
Noise and crowds may intimidate the Alzheimer’s patient, resulting in increased frustration and anxiety as well as decreased verbalization. Sometimes, all the person needs is a bit of quiet to organize their thoughts and correctly verbalize them.
Tip #6 – Be Prepared for Repetition
In the late stages of Alzheimer’s, there are other measures you can take to improve communication efforts. Let the person know who you are to create a sense of familiarity. Use simple words and sentences and speak slowly in a lowered tone of voice.
Be prepared to repeat your questions or information you are imparting, and also be prepared for Alzheimer’s sufferers to repeat themselves. Be respectful, calm, and caring in your actions and tone of voice. Using signals or written words to communicate or as reminders can be extremely helpful.
Tip #7 – Remain Positive
Above all, remain positive even in the face of adversity. Alzheimer’s disease is extremely trying for the patient and the caregiver, family member, or friend who is dealing with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s.
Remember, the challenges are neither your fault nor theirs. Patience, understanding, and compassion on your part can mean the difference between failure and success in effective communication.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References
Alzheimer’s Association. Communication and Alzheimer’s. Retrieved on November 8, 2010
Home Care Tips for Improving Senior Memory Function
What Every Family and Caregiver Needs to Know About Improving Senior Memory Function
Home Care Tips for Improving Senior Memory | For seniors with memory issues, receiving care while remaining home can enhance their quality of life. This is true for those with minor memory problems that result from age or for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other forms of memory loss.
A familiar environment can reduce confusion and improve mental engagement, and being surrounded by beloved objects and memory cues can foster a sense of connection and peace.
#DYK – Almost 40 percent of people over 65 experience memory loss.
For older adults, some conditions progress over time and significantly affect memory. However, lifestyle changes may help control memory problems and help seniors remain independent with extra help from family or a professional caregiver.
Eight Home Care Tips for Improving Senior Memory
Tip #1. Exercise Your Mind:
Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as memorization, learning to play an instrument, or fixing a car. These tasks help strengthen the brain’s neural connections and promote mental health.
Tip #2. Continue Learning:
Formal education stimulates the brain and keeps it active. Many colleges and universities offer affordable or free courses for seniors, providing an excellent opportunity to maintain mental sharpness.
Tip #3. Stay Connected:
Regular social interaction with friends, family, and community members can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and enhance overall well-being. Those who don’t drive can get assistance from loved ones or a caregiver to help maintain an active social life.
Tip #4. Stay Active:
Physical exercise is crucial for keeping the mind sharp. Seniors interested in increasing their activity levels should consult a physician to ensure their exercise program is safe and effective.
Tip #5. Eat a Balanced Diet:
Proper nutrition supports both the mind and body. Healthcare professionals can provide dietary advice and recommend supplements that improve memory and cognitive function.
Tip #6. Cultivate Self-Confidence:
Believing in your abilities can help protect against mental decline. This may be linked to better stress management and overall resilience.
Tip #7. Keep Your Home Organized:
Maintaining an organized living space, with to-do lists, calendars, and designated spots for frequently misplaced items, can help those with memory issues feel more comfortable and in control.
Tip #8. Prioritize Sleep:
Getting enough sleep is essential for memory retention. Seniors should focus on their sleep habits to avoid memory loss and support overall cognitive health.
Taking an active role in engaging the mind can help older adults continue to live with purpose, connection and joy.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References
Normal Aging vs Dementia. Alzheimer Society of Canada. Web 2020.
Psychology Today. Physical Activity Improves Cognitive Function. Web. 2014.
Verywell Mind. Self-Efficacy and Why Believing in Yourself Matters. Web. 2019.
U.S. News & World Report. 5 Secrets to staying sharp as you age. Web. 2015
WebMD. 1 in 9 U.S. Adults Over 45 Reports Memory Issues. Web. 2018.
Mayo Clinic. 7 Tips to Improve Your Memory. Web. 2018.
Identifying the Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease in Seniors
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Alzheimer’s Disease
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s? Millions of people worldwide have been affected by Alzheimer’s disease. While some have been diagnosed with this disease, others are dealing with their loved one’s diagnosis.
Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease: Early Detection
An estimated 33% of diagnosed adults are aware that they have the disease. As a result, various organizations are working to increase that number.
However, until recently, the focus of Alzheimer’s education was always on research to find a cure. As a result, early detection is receiving more attention than ever. Many tests are now conducted on how the brain starts to change years before any severe symptoms occur.
Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease: The Diagnosis
An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be difficult for everyone involved. That’s why early detection can make a difference in one’s life. Seniors who get an early diagnosis can participate in clinical trials. Furthermore, an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis can give seniors and their families time to prepare for the future and find a suitable care solution.
For this reason, here are eight early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s to look out for.
Eight Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease in Seniors
#1. Forgetfulness:
Constant forgetfulness of information such as important dates and events.
#2. Unwilling to Plan:
Trouble managing personal finances and unwillingness to plan for future events.
#3. Local Navigation Trouble:
Getting lost while driving on familiar roads.
#4. Loss of Interest:
Uninterested in their favourite pastimes and hobbies.
#5. Confusion:
Having poor judgment and cannot easily follow a conversation.
#6. Spatial Awareness:
Inability to judge distance and space.
#7. Missing Time and Items:
Losing track of time, sleep problems, and misplacing items.
#8. Mental Health Changes:
Increased anxiety or feelings of depression are also common signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
In short, if you are worried that your loved one might develop Alzheimer’s, these are the early symptoms you should look out for and pay attention to.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.