Category: News

Caring for an elderly loved one can at times be stressful. Over time, caregivers often experience exhaustion and simple tasks can become a struggle. It is important that caregivers stay aware of how they are feeling day to day and keep track of their health. If you are a caregiver and feel that you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important that you seek respite care or speak to a medical professional.

In a recent AgingCare article, they discuss the 6 Signs of Caregiver Burnout:

1. Isolating yourself from friends and family
2. Losing interest in past hobbies
3. Suicidal thoughts
4. Changes in eating habits
5. Strange or challenging sleep patterns
6. Lingering illness

Caring for a loved one shouldn’t take a toll on you health. Being aware of these warning signs can help keep you and your loved one safe.

Read the full article here.

If you have been injured or have fallen ill and you believe that it is work related, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Being able to identify when a situation is covered under the AOE/COE requirement can get tricky. It is important to understand why situation may or may not be covered.

In a recent article, Nolo breaks down some common work related situations where your injury or illness may occur:

1. Lunch Breaks
2. Company Events
3. Travel
4. Misconduct
5. Illness, Cumulative Injuries, and Stress Related Conditions

If you are still unsure if your injury or illness is eligible for workers’ compensation, speaking with your attorney is a good idea.

Read the full article here.

As you and your loved ones age, often assisted living must become an option. Couples living together in senior communities is common, but it is important to know the facts. Often, those who wish to move together do not know where to look for the proper care.

Finding the appropriate care facility is necessary when thinking of senior living. In a recent Aging Care article, these issues are addressed:

1. What Kinds of Homes are Available for Couples
2. Needs Assessment
3. Costs for Couples
4. Planning for the Future
5. A Balancing Act for Couples

Getting care for your loved one is always top priority.  Asking questions and following these steps can help you choose the best fit for your loved ones.

Read the full article here.

The National Security Council has designated the month of April as Distracted Driving Awareness month. It’s crucial for drivers to be aware of distractions to help minimize the number of deaths associated with car accidents.

According to a recent article by FindLaw, here are ten tips and facts to keep in mind while driving:

1. New teen drivers are distracted more easily
2. Every distracted second counts
3. Eating while driving can be considered distracting
4. Cell phone records can be used in court
5. Texting and driving can lead to child endangerment charges
6. Distracted driving can lead to public shaming
7. Texting crash videos will make you think twice
8. Hands-free cell phone use can still be distracting
9. Use an app to curb your bad habits
10. You could find yourself in hot water

Following these tips will help you and those around you. Although April is Distracted Driving Awareness month, it’s smart to follow these tips all year round!

Read the full article here.

At times, being a caregiver can be stressful. Daily tasks can lead you to feel isolated, overwhelmed or tired. It is important to acknowledge your emotions and identify the source of your stress. If not managed correctly, stress can pose health issues. These may range from diabetes to heart to disease. April is stress awareness month, it’s a good time to remember that properly taking care of yourself can help limit stress and improve your overall health. 

This Mayo Clinic article explores the signs of caregiver stress and provides tips for managing the emotional and physical demands of taking care of a loved one. Some tips include:

1. Accept help
2. Focus on what you are able to provide
3. Seek social support
4. Set personal health goals
5. See your doctor

Find more information by reading the full article here.

Whether you’re in a minor fender bender or a major accident, it’s important to know which steps to follow to ensure the proper care is taken for you and your vehicle. Getting into an accident while in a rental car can be challenging, but knowing what to do can help.

According to a recent WhatHappensNow article, here are ten tips to follow if you’re in a rental car accident:

• Pull over to a safe spot, turn on your hazard lights (flashers) and stop before calling for help.
• Check for injuries. Call 9-1-1 if there are injuries.
• Watch for oncoming vehicles before exiting the car.
• Call the local police or law enforcement agent.
• Call the rental car company.
• Call your insurance agent.
• Document the damage of the accident.
• Towing the car.
• Keep copies of ALL receipts.
• Get extra estimates.

Read the full article here.

Doctors recommend a well-balanced diet to all, especially Seniors. As people age, their diets may need to change depending on how well balanced they eat. According to Ruth Frechman, registered dietitian and spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, there are ways that caregivers can incorporate healthy foods and specific actions to modify their loved one’s health.

According to a recent AgingCare article, here are six vital tips for Seniors:

1.Prepare Meals Rich in These Nutrients: Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Calcium

2.Limit Sodium Content

3.Hydrate

4.Incorporate Changes Gradually

5.Set an Example

6.Make Smoothies

Follow these tips to stay a healthier, happier you!

Read the full article here.

In honor of National Bath Safety Month, we’re taking a deeper look at how to keep seniors safe in the bathroom. Bathroom safety is a serious concern for elderly Americans. In fact, according to the National Council on Aging:

• One-fourth of older Americans fall each year.
• Every 19 minutes, a senior dies from a fall.
• Every 11 seconds, an older adult is sent to the emergency room for a fall-related injury.

That’s why Uplifting Mobility compiled these eight bathroom safety tips for seniors.

8 Bathroom Safety Tips for Seniors

• Install grab bars
• Invest in a good shower chair
• Install a walk-in tub
• Place non-slip mats in the bathroom
• Install a raised toilet seat
• Put essential items within easy reach
• Make lighting and door changes
• Use a bath lift

Read the full article here.

As the holidays approach, there are many things running through your mind. What you shouldn’t have to worry about, though, is what to gift your loved one in a nursing home. That’s why the blog We Have Kids broke down 10 of the best gift ideas for nursing home residents.

10 nursing home gift ideas

1. The gift of your time
2. Soft-smelling lotions
3. Fluffy socks and comfortable slippers
4. Personal cosmetics
5. Mind games like Scrabble, crossword puzzles and Sudoku puzzles
6. Homemade treats
7. Bird Feeders
8. Compact discs of singers from their era
9. Photos of their loved ones
10. Stuffed animals

Read the full article here.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. For many adults, though, the holidays also come with a lot of added pressure. When you also have the duty of taking care of an elderly parent or relative, it might be difficult to see the season as anything besides downright stressful.

It’s important to discourage unhealthy behaviors as a means of coping with all of this impending work. Excessive drinking and eating, as well as lack of exercise and sleep, are likely to add to these negative feelings (rather than helping you kick them to the curb).

Instead, pinpoint the triggers that are likely to cause you the most stress this time of the year. Then, identify ways that are effective for you individually to manage and release your stress- whether that’s exercising or scheduling some “you time.”

During the holiday season, in particular, don’t hesitate to ask for the help or support from your loved ones. If you’re taking on a greater number of tasks, you should also be taking on a greater number of people to aid you in accomplishing your goals.

Make sure to use these 10 tips from AARP to keep from feeling overwhelmed this holiday season.

Read the full article here.