Category: Care Tips

 December 11, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

The way someone with Alzheimer’s experiences the world isn’t always rooted in our current reality. One of the most heart-wrenching yet profound experiences you may encounter is something called time-shifting in Alzheimer’s. This isn’t just forgetting what day it is; it’s a complete immersion in a different era of their life. For instance, you may be sitting together at the dinner table, and suddenly, the person believes they’re a young adult waiting for their parents to come home. It’s disorienting for them and can be equally puzzling for you. But understanding time-shifting can help make those moments more manageable—and even meaningful. (more…)

 November 26, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

“Laura, it’s so good to see you!”

What a sweet greeting this would be…if you actually were Laura. Increasingly, Mom is referring to you as her sister, forgetting that you’re her daughter. Coping with dementia-related memory loss, especially as the disease starts to steal memories and someone you love no longer recognizes your face, can be extremely hard. The sadness is overwhelming, the frustration undeniable, and the questions keep piling up: Why is this happening? What do I do now? (more…)

 November 19, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

It’s here! The holiday season is in full swing, filled with laughter, decorations, and of course, family gatherings. But let’s be real: it can also be packed with stress, tempting treats, and a hectic pace that leaves everyone a little frazzled. If you’re caring for an older loved one, you know how quickly the holidays can turn from “merry and bright” to “chaotic and overwhelming.” And if hypertension is a factor, it can be even more of a challenge. Between extra salty holiday meals, busy schedules, and unexpected stressors, holiday hypertension management can be daunting. But never fear; with some thoughtful planning and small adjustments, you can help keep their health in check while still enjoying all the festive cheer. (more…)

 November 11, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

You’ve just settled Mom into bed after a long day. You’re exhausted—physically and emotionally—and there’s still a list of tasks waiting for your attention. Maybe it was the struggle with getting her to take her medication today that wore you out. Or perhaps the call from a family member who offered well-meaning but impractical advice is what caused that extra level of stress. Caring for an older loved one can be one of the hardest roles you’ll face in your lifetime. Prioritizing self-care for caregivers and building emotional resilience is crucial, and it’s the foundation that will help you keep going when the days are tough. (more…)

 October 14, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

It’s a typical morning, and you’re helping Dad get ready for the day. You’ve picked out several options of outfits for him to choose from, but he balks and refuses to wear any of them. In fact, he’s been wearing the same outfit for several days now, despite your gentle requests each day to change. Sound familiar? Many family caregivers face this daily struggle, as dementia can make even simple tasks like changing clothes feel overwhelming. The good news is that with a few helpful strategies and plenty of patience, you can overcome dementia dressing challenges and make the process smoother. (more…)

 October 7, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

With the holidays approaching, you might be thinking about festive meals and family gatherings centered around favorite foods and traditions. But what about the rest of the year? Is everyone in your family—particularly older loved ones—getting proper nutrition on a regular basis? While holiday feasts might be an exception, many older adults quietly struggle with senior malnutrition for a variety of reasons. The first step to helping older loved ones stay nourished and healthy year-round is learning about the challenges they may be facing. (more…)

 September 23, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

Watching a loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD can be tough. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do everything you can to help. What you might not realize is that there are other COPD-related health complications, known as comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed in tandem with COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these potential comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to receive screenings and treatment as needed. (more…)

 September 18, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

You’ve finally decided to bite the bullet and declutter your parents’ home. As you begin sorting through the attic, you come across a box of old family photos, a stack of forgotten love letters, a collection of vintage toys. Each item holds a story, a piece of history, and a flood of memories. (more…)

 August 22, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

Every day as a caregiver brings new challenges and opportunities for making life easier and more comfortable for the person you love. The good news is that innovative caregiving solutions are constantly emerging, designed to help you manage your responsibilities more efficiently and make life more comfortable for your family member. Check out some of our top recommendations and see if they might be worth exploring.

Adaptive Clothing

Adaptive clothing has revolutionized a person’s ability to maintain independence. These items include easy-access closures like Velcro, magnetic snaps, and side zippers. Now, however, many types of adaptive wear are not just functional but also stylish and dignified. You’ll find everything from adaptive sleepwear to formal wear, making it easier for the person you love to look and feel their best.

Smart Home Technology

Technology is stepping up to ease the burden of caregiving. Smart home devices like voice-activated assistants (think Amazon Echo or Google Home), smart lights, and automated medication dispensers can significantly enhance the safety and independence of an older loved one. These devices can help remind them to take their medication, turn off the stove, or even make emergency calls—all while giving you peace of mind.

Health Monitoring Devices

Wearable health monitoring devices have become a game-changer. Items like smartwatches and health trackers can monitor vital signs, track physical activity, and even detect falls. These devices allow you to keep a close eye on a loved one’s health metrics in real-time, ensuring that any potential issues are promptly addressed.

Online Support and Resources

The internet is brimming with resources specifically for family caregivers. You can easily find everything from forums for emotional support to detailed guides on specific medical conditions. Many online stores now provide a vast array of caregiving products, often with customer reviews to help you make informed decisions. Subscription services for essentials like incontinence supplies or dietary supplements can also save you time and hassle.

Innovative Mobility Solutions

One of the most significant challenges older adults face is maintaining mobility. Fortunately, the market is flooded with advanced mobility aids designed to enhance independence and ease of movement. From lightweight, foldable wheelchairs and electric scooters to sophisticated stair lifts and portable ramps, there’s an option to fit every need and lifestyle. These devices are designed to be user-friendly and adaptable, often featuring ergonomic designs that reduce strain and increase comfort. By integrating these mobility solutions into daily life, you can help an older loved one maintain their autonomy, continue to enjoy their favorite activities, and navigate their home safely.

Our care experts always keep an eye on the latest innovative caregiver solutions and resources to make your life as a family caregiver easier. We’re here to answer any questions you have. With a complimentary in-home consultation, we can share more about how we can help someone you love in Syracuse, Clay, Camillus, and throughout Central New York. Call us any time at (315) 579-HOME (4663).

 July 23, 2024 by Dean Bellefeuille

As a family caregiver for an aging parent, you become their biggest cheerleader and most trusted confidant. It should never be just about managing medications or medical appointments; you’re enriching their life, making each day more meaningful. It’s amazing what a difference focusing on the positives of getting older can have on a person’s wellbeing, and in your role as family caregiver, you can make a profound impact on the life of the person you love.

These ideas can help you promote a positive outlook and an environment focused on mental and emotional wellness:

• Health and Wellness: Routine doctors’ visits, a good diet, and tending to chronic conditions are major aspects of care, but equal attention must be given to mental health. Encouraging open conversations about feelings and any anxieties can help identify issues before they become serious. It’s also beneficial to integrate holistic practices such as meditation or mindfulness exercises, which have been shown to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
• Stimulating Activities: Adding old passions and new interests into a senior’s daily routine can be great for maintaining a positive outlook on aging. Activities like gardening, art classes, or book clubs are fun, keep the mind active and motor skills sharp, and help facilitate social interactions. You can also consider technology-driven activities such as virtual reality experiences that simulate travel or historical events, which can be both entertaining and educational. And don’t forget physical activities such as tai chi or gentle yoga to improve both physical and emotional wellbeing.
• Community and Connections: Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional health. Facilitating participation in community events or arranging for regular visits with friends and family can significantly enhance their quality of life. Technology can be of great use here, bridging the distance through video calls or social media, which allows for maintaining relationships despite physical distance. Creating opportunities for older adults to meet new people, such as through local clubs or community centers, can also be beneficial. These connections can help prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common in older adults.
• Professional Support: Even the most dedicated family caregivers may not always be able to provide the full scope of care an older loved one needs. A skilled caregiver offers not only friendly companionship but also personalized support that fosters independence within the comforting environment of their own home. Professional caregivers can be instrumental in implementing therapeutic activities, preparing healthy meals, and providing transportation to appointments. They also offer valuable respite for family caregivers, ensuring that the care provided is both consistent and comprehensive.

Your commitment to promoting the positives of getting older, along with our customized home care services, can be life-changing. Contact us online or at (315) 579-HOME (4663), and let’s work together to make life more fulfilling and enjoyable for someone you love. Our services are available throughout Syracuse, Camillus, Clay, and the surrounding areas.