Recent News

Grab the Popcorn: 5 Great Movie Choices for Dementia Clients

Do you have any family members or clients who suffer from dementia? Are you a caregiver looking for positive movies for your client to watch? Surveys completed by caregivers show that clients with dementia are often in more positive moods and more communicative after watching a positive movie. If you’re searching for an uplifting movie to watch with your parent or client, here are 5 of the best movies for dementia patients: It’s a Wonderful Life Director: Frank Capra Date of the first release: January 7, 1947 Main characters: George Bailey, Mary Hatch, Mr. Potter, Uncle Billy, Clarence, and Mrs. Bailey Summary: In this timeless classic, a gentle and kind angel, Clarence, is sent to earth to show discouraged businessman, George Bailey, what life would have been like had George never been born. While this film is associated with the Christmas season, it is a joy to watch any time of year. Cheaper by the Dozen Director: Walter Lang Date of the first release: April 1950 Main characters: Frank Bunker Gilbreth, Ann Gilbreth, Mrs. Lillian Gilbreth, Deborah Lancaster, Ernestine Gilbreth Summary: This movie is based on the real-life story of the Gilbreth family. The movie highlights the amusing challenges of large families. Frank Bunker Gilbreth was considered a pioneer in the study of motion and used his family to test his theories, resulting in embarrassing and funny situations. Grumpy Old Men Director: Donald Petrie Date of the first release: December 25, 1993 Main characters: John Gustafson, Max Goldman, Ariel Truax, Grandpa Gustafson Summary: Two elderly men, John and Max, have been neighbors for over 50 years. Constantly arguing and trading insults, the two become infatuated and competitive over new neighbor Ariel. A warm and funny story about life-long relationships. Singin’ in the Rain Director: Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly Date of the first release: April 11, 1952 Main characters: Don Lockwood, Cosmo Brown, Kathy Seldon, Lina Lamont, Summary: Singin’ in the Rain is set in 1927 when silent films started transitioning to films with sound. The storyline is based on the challenges Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont face as Lina finds her voice isn’t suitable for talking movies. Enter Kathy Seldon who has a great voice but lacks the talent of Lina. Sing along with the familiar theme song while watching the amazing dancing of Gene Kelly. The Sound of Music Director: Robert Wise Date of the first release: March 29, 1965 Main characters: Maria, Captain Von Trapp, the Baroness, Max Detweiler, Mother Abbess, the Von Trapp children Summary: Maria leaves a convent to become a governess to widower Captain Von Trapp’s seven mischievous children. Although she faces hostility at first, Maria soon wins over both the children and Captain Von Trapp. Enjoy beautiful songs such as My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, and Climb Ev’ry Mountain. The Importance of Happy Endings The best movies for people with dementia are movies with happy endings. Comedy, music and an engaging storyline contribute to creating a positive experience. The famous saying that “laughter is the best medicine” is true no matter your age. Planning a movie date at home with your parent or client is a great way for both of you to unwind and enjoy classic entertainment. It is important to have care you can trust when it comes to caring for your senior loved one. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has served the Denver area for over 30 years and have helped thousands of satisfied clients. They take great pride in their knowledgeable, compassionate staff and their commitment to quality care. For more information about Elderlink Home Care, Inc’s services, contact us today.

5 Warning Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. May 14, 18

Taking care of our aging loved ones or clients is very fulfilling. It is rewarding to give back to the generations that has cared for and paved the way for us. Realistically however, particularly if you are caring for a loved one, it can be easy to neglect yourself and your own needs. To continue providing your loved one or client with the support they need, it’s wise to assess your own well-being from time to time. To help you do that, here are 5 warning signs that you might be experiencing caregiver burnout. You feel exhausted even after a good night’s sleep. Of course, you might not feel like you can run a marathon each day. But you should feel like you have gotten adequate rest to physically and mentally carry out the day’s activities. Exhaustion might seem to be a ‘normal’ part of the life of a caregiver. But it definitely does not have to be. You get sick easily. An immune system functions well when the body gets sufficient rest, good nutrition and other forms of proper care. If you are catching colds or facing other types of illnesses frequently, it could be a sign that you are overextending yourself. It becomes hard to experience feelings of joy or excitement. Caring for a loved one is a gratifying experience. But over time, that joy and contentment can fade. And it’s not because that loved one is any less dear to the caregiver. It is the sad result of pushing past one’s reasonable limitations. This lack of joy can also extend to other areas of life. Meeting friends for dinner or outings are a thing of the past. Most full-time jobs limit the amount of leisure activity that can be enjoyed. However, if time for recreation has slowly dwindled into non-existence, you and your loved one won’t be able to benefit from ways taking time for yourself can revive and refresh you. Your food consumption is too little or too much. Stress often leads to eating too much. Also, being too busy can cause caregivers to skip meals. Either of these habits comes with their own consequences, and it’s often not simply a matter of being overweight or underweight. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all signs of caregiving burnout. But these are 5 of the most common indications. Because you are so diligent about giving your loving to your loved one or client, you may not even realize you are experiencing burnout until you face extreme emotional exhaustion or feeling as if you are coming to a breaking point. So take these and other warnings to heart. Understandably, it might cause you to feel a bit guilty for wanting to improve your own quality of life. But finding practical ways to do so will not only improve your days, it will in turn improve the quality of care your loved one receives. So it is important to recognize the warning signs before you jeopardize your health, well-being and caregiving abilities. Whether you believe you are already experiencing caregiving burnout, or you are heading in that direction, Elderlink Home Care Inc. can help. We have proudly served the Denver Metro area for 30 years. Since 1988, we have provided excellent in-home care to thousands of satisfied seniors in the Denver area. We have received many positive testimonials from current and past clients. For more information about in-home care and how Elderlink can possibly help, please contact us today.

Celebrating 30 Years ~ Announcing April’s Winner!

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. May 07, 18

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is excited to announce the winner of our ‘Celebrating 30 Years’ grant: Mrs. Cecilia Dalton! Mrs. Dalton was nominated by her granddaughter, Davida Duran (pictured). Mrs. Dalton, 85, was born in Sopris, Colorado and has lived in Colorado her whole life! She spent the early years of her life raising her five children. Mrs. Dalton now has 20 grandchildren; including one grandson she has raised since he was baby and still lives with her. She worked at Denver Health for a number of years before retiring. The most important things in Mrs. Dalton’s life are time spent with her family and her church. Mrs. Dalton was very close to her sister, who recently passed away. When asked what her plans were for her $300, she said she would be putting it directly into her savings account! Congratulations Mrs. Dalton!

7 Ways to Maintain Healthy Cholesterol in Seniors

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. May 07, 18

High cholesterol can be a serious health problem for many seniors. It significantly raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, heart attack and other serious health problems. Fortunately, there are several simple steps that can be taken to lower bad cholesterol levels, raise good ones and help seniors remain healthy! Make Simple Dietary Changes Let’s face it: Major diet changes are never easy. However, by encouraging your loved one or client to make a few simple changes, their cholesterol levels can be lowered–and often, they won’t notice what they’re missing. Try some of these strategies: Eat fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna Try whole grain products instead of their processed alternatives Avoid trans fats Eat fewer processed foods Minimize refined carbohydrates Add in foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables Incorporate Simple Activities When your client or loved one isn’t moving, it’s easier for bad cholesterol to build up, hardening their veins and making it difficult for them to get healthier. Regular activity, on the other hand, can decrease bad cholesterol! Try some of these simple activities: Take up dancing! Classes together can be a great bonding experience. Get out and take a walk several times a week. Go for a swim. During the summer months, swimming outside is a fun, free exercise. Even during the winter, many gyms offer indoor water aerobics programs. Start gardening. Growing pretty flowers or fruits and vegetables is both healthy and invigorating! Find a class at your local gym or senior center. There are plenty to choose from and they’re sure to find something appealing! Decrease Portion Size There are a number of foods that are very healthy and full of cholesterol-fighting properties. Unfortunately, many of them are also high in calories. Whether you’re changing your senior’s diet to incorporate more good fats or they’re indulging in a favorite treat, practicing portion control is the best way to ensure that the treatment will be healthy, rather than causing more health problems down the road. Encourage Socialization Regular social contact with others has a higher impact on the body’s overall health–including cholesterol levels–than giving up smoking. If your loved one is struggling with high cholesterol levels, consider looking for more ways to get them out and about, socializing with loved ones. This could include: More family time! Take vacations together, plan family events, or just get together and hang out. Getting involved with a local church or charity. Spending more time at the local senior center, engaging in activities they offer. Increased socialization won’t just help with cholesterol levels. It will also help your senior loved one live longer and enjoy a fuller, happier life–so make sure that socialization is an on-going priority. Laugh Often Laughter is known to give you a healthier heart. It raises the levels of good cholesterol in your blood, decreases stress, and even offers an immune system boost! Watch funny movies or read funny books with your client or loved one. When you’re not around, encourage them to engage in these pastimes on their own as well. Drop the Bad Habits As your loved one approaches their senior years, it’s time to think about what those bad habits are really worth–most notably, smoking and drinking. Both regular alcohol consumption and a smoking habit can have a negative impact on cholesterol levels, leaving your loved one struggling to get their health under control. Simply giving up those habits, on the other hand, can keep them around longer. Follow Doctors’ Recommendations If your loved one has been prescribed a medication for high cholesterol, it’s important that they take it exactly as prescribed! Their doctor is monitoring their cholesterol levels and will adjust the medication as needed. Many people believe that as their cholesterol drops, they no longer need the medication. Unfortunately, this can simply complicate the issue and lead to a greater need for medication later on. Dealing with high cholesterol in a loved one isn’t easy, especially with all the fears it brings up. If you need more help caring for your senior loved one, contact us today to learn how we can help.

Celebrating 30 Years ~ Announcing March’s Winner!

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Apr 11, 18

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is pleased to announce the winner of our ‘Celebrating 30 Years’ grant; Mrs. Ethel Steward, 90 years young! Mrs. Steward was nominated by her daughter, Deb Lockwood. She was born in Missouri and grew up in Kansas. Her husband, William, was in the Army for over 20 years. This caused Mr. & Mrs. Steward to move around a lot. They have lived in many places all over the world. While living in Tokyo, they welcomed a daughter, Deb, into their lives. Sadly, Mr. Steward passed away in 1978. Their daughter, Deb, was living in Colorado and Mrs. Steward decided to move to Colorado as well. She moved here in 1979 and has been here ever since! She has 3 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. She had a career in banking during her adult life. When she retired from banking, she began working as a child care provider. She definitely kept busy! Ethel isn’t sure what she is going to do with the grant money quite yet, however, she knew she had immediate plans to go to lunch with her daughter, Deb. Congratulations Ms. Steward! If you would like to nominate a senior for our monthly grant, please click here!

7 Tips on Finding the Best Senior Care Services Near You

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Mar 28, 18

Seniors will eventually reach a point in their lives when they are no longer able to perform their daily tasks on their own. As they age, they will begin to need assistance with things like meal preparation, mobility, and personal care so it is important to find the best senior care services available near you. The elderly population is growing and experts say aging in place is most often their wish. In fact, 80 percent of older adults live independently in their own homes. As they age, seniors’ physical and cognitive condition will likely change, making it challenging to perform their daily living activities completely on their own, without any assistance. Steps to Finding the Right Senior Care Services 1. Research your options There are many options available to those looking to secure home care for their senior loved ones. • Home health agencies These are organizations that provide skilled and/or medical in the home. Most seniors who need assistance with basic daily living activities do not necessarily require the services of a home healthcare agency. The services of a home care agency is typically what is needed to allow them to remain in the comfort of their own home. They are also more affordable than home health care agencies. • Hospices Hospice is a healthcare option for individuals who need end of life care. Patients who receive care through hospice usually are suffering from a terminal illness and have been given a prognosis of 6 months or less to live. Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life, rather than life-saving medical treatments. • Home Care Agency A home care agency provides sends caregivers into the home to assist with activities of daily living, such as; personal care, light housekeeping, meal planning and preparation, companionship, medication reminders, etc. 2. Choose between home care and an assisted living facility More and more, seniors are choosing to live independently at home – “age in place.” In fact, the AARP reports that approximately 90 percent of seniors intend to stay home as they age. Seniors who are able to do many things on their own but find some tasks to be problematic, are good candidates for in-home care service. However, those who have severe medical needs, or are at risk of harm or injury, might best be served in a skilled nursing facility. 3. Assess your budget Medicaid and traditional health insurance typically does not cover the cost for home care services. They will cover the cost for hospice care and sometimes in-home medical care if the individual qualifies. It is important to determine what – if any – costs there will be associated with the care you decide to get for your loved one. Long term care insurance will cover and/or reimburse the insured for non-medical in-home care. 4. Call the agency’s offices Once you narrow your choices down, call the agency and ask them about their services. Make sure you get a warm feeling that they are experts in their field. This will help you get a good idea of their experience, quality and standards. 5. Understand how the agency selects their care givers It is crucial to ensure your loved one is being cared for by excellent care-givers 6. Understand which specific services are offered by the agency This will help you to ensure that your senior’s needs are all met adequately. 7. Check the availability of the agency’s caregiver(s) Are they going to be consistently available to provide coverage for the days and times your loved one needs it? What about future availability in the event that your loved one’s needs change? Is there an up-front cost or deposit? A long-term commitment? What if there is a personality mis-match? These are all good questions to ask up front so there are no surprises down the road. The staff at Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is always working as a team to provide our clients with the best possible in-home care experience. Call us today to see how we can help you and your loved one.

Top 5 Benefits of In-Home Care for Seniors

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Mar 19, 18

As your parents age, it can be difficult to watch them struggle with tasks that were once easy for them. Taking out the garbage or loading the dishwasher suddenly takes much more effort and time than it once did. 65% of seniors between 60-70 easily live independently but only 43% of those above 70 years old can actually manage independent living. This does not mean they need to move residences—most wish to remain in the comfort of their own homes. Studies show that over 80% of seniors wish to remain in their own homes while they age, regardless of their physical condition. According to AARP, 90% of seniors plan to stay in their home at least 10 more years. They may need additional help with their day to day as they age, but how much? When considering your parents’ living needs, it’s important to understand the differences between in-home care and nursing home services. 5 Reasons In-Home Care May be the Better Choice for Your Aging Loved One 1. Friends and family can be more involved Your parents may not need 24-hour support. They may simply need help with things like bathing, light housekeeping, or meal preparation. Home care for seniors offers you the flexibility to hire a caregiver part-time, full-time, or 24 hours a day depending on the level of care they need. Care is very personalized at home. Your loved one will also receive one-on-one attention and care. This is tremendously beneficial for seniors. They can adjust to one person instead of several different caretakers and staff members at an assisted living or skilled nursing facility. 2. Flexibility to customize with caregivers Your parents may not need 24-hour support. They may simply need help with things like bathing, cleaning the house, or cooking meals. Home care for seniors offers you the flexibility to hire a caregiver part-time, full-time, or 24 hours a day depending on the level of care they need. Care is very personalized at home. This is tremendously beneficial for seniors. They can adjust to one person instead of several nurses and doctors coming in and out of their room. 3. Familiar surroundings maintain calmness Uprooting seniors who are established and comfortable in the home can be emotionally jarring. Moving is a stressful situation, not a relief, as they must essentially start over which is challenging for seniors. Some facilities don’t have private rooms—your mom or dad may have a roommate that they don’t know. This can be uncomfortable for them. If possible, keeping them at home is best for them mentally. They know what to expect when they walk into the kitchen, living room, or bedroom. At night, they sleep in their own bed that that they’re comfortable in. They know the neighborhood and their neighbors. They have a routine they can maintain in their home. The consistency and control over their surroundings maintain their sense of calm. 4. The freedom to keep their own pets, maintain their familiar routines, and set their own standards. When you move into an assisted living facility or nursing home, you must play by their rules. Often, they don’t allow pets, and if they do only small pets or certain types are allowed. Giving up your pet is an understandably emotionally devastating event. This does not help your parents get better or live out their lives in happiness. Plus, it’s often not fair to the animal. 5. It is more affordable than a retirement or nursing home When compared to the cost of an assisted living facility or nursing home, home care can be a more affordable option for many seniors. The average annual cost of one nursing home residence is $69,715.00. The average annual cost of one assisted living facility resident is $36,372.00. (Source: MetLife Market Survey of Nursing Home & Assisted Living Costs) Seniors who wish to remain in their own homes are able to schedule care around their own needs. For example, 20 hours of home care a week with Elderlink Home Care, Inc., costs approximately $1600.00 per month or an annual cost of approximately $19,200. Taking care of a loved one is a joy and honor. However, you may find that you need additional help and expertise to ensure needs are being met and you are able to manage and maintain things in your own life. If you feel your loved ones need additional care let the experts at Elderlink help. We have a variety of services to fit the needs of your loved ones. Contact us today.

Home care Denver, Senior care Denver, In home care Denver, Home health care Denver

Top 3 Tips for Becoming the Best Caregiver You Can Be

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Mar 12, 18

The field of senior care is complex and ever-changing. If caring for a senior parent or client is part of your life, becoming an effective caregiver for seniors is probably something that is important to you. Here are a few tips to help you stay on top of your duties as a caregiver and help you provide the best care possible for those you care for. 3 Ways to Become a Great Caregiver 1. Arm yourself with knowledge Effective caregiving starts with knowledge of your client: it is essential that you understand your loved one’s or client’s health conditions.Every client’s care needs are different and each condition they are dealing with will impact their life in a different way. Having a thorough understanding of how each condition affects them will help prepare you up to best meet their needs. Seek out information from clients’ physicians, nurses, family and friends. While the clients themselves are your main concern, many of their specific care needs can be better identified by speaking with others who have been involved in their care and have spent time around them. These people may also be able to relay information to you about things that happen when you are not around your loved one or client. 2. Evaluate your boundaries Know what can and cannot be talked about regarding physical care.Just like every client has different medical needs, every client also has different emotional needs. They will likely have different comfort levels regarding the discussion of their physical care. Carefully address sensitive topics with your client, their family members and other caregivers to ensure that everyone is comfortable with how and when they are discussed. A caregiver should never discuss a client’s physical needs with anyone not involved with the client’s care. Be the one to start the conversations regarding sensitive caring topics like toileting, bathing or feeding.Many seniors feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit that they need help with these basic daily functions, but it is your responsibility to reassure them that that’s what you’re there for. Starting the conversation and keeping it positive will help them feel more comfortable with the subject. 3. Know your “why” and care from the heart Any profession runs the risk of complacency and burnout. If you’re not feeling passionate about your work as a caregiver, it will show in your interactions with clients, and it may be time for you to revisit the reasons why you chose to work as a caregiver in the first place. Perhaps it was because you value the wisdom and experience of the elderly and you believe that they deserve respectful care? Or maybe it was because you just love helping others. No matter your reason, keeping it at the forefront of your mind can help you be at your best every day. Remember the positive impact you are able to make in another person’s life and on their family.Seniors are some of the most vulnerable members of our society. There is nothing more important than being the steady and trustworthy hand for someone when they are vulnerable. As a caregiver, you become a part of your clients’ and their families’ lives and you have the capacity to brighten those lives with your kindness and reliability. It is a relationship and a responsibility you should treat with the utmost respect. As time goes by, it’s normal to start thinking of caregiving as your “job,” but if you find yourself falling into that habit, try to alter your mindset and think of caregiving as something you wholeheartedly want to do, not just something you need to do. One of the ways to get yourself out of a rut is to tend to your clients with a purpose in mind each day. Ask yourself, “How can I make my clients’ quality of life better?” or, “How can I improve the bond of trust between my client and me today?” As you strive for true excellence, you will find joy in the journey. As you are working on becoming a better caregiver, you will find that a cooperative attitude will help you gain the trust of those you’re caring for. Trying to put yourself in their shoes will make it easier to be a more patient, honest, humble and responsive caregiver. Elderlink has a pool of caregivers who provide in-home care for seniors who need assistance with daily living activities. Take a look at our caregiver duty chart to see just one of the ways we support our caregivers in giving the best quality care possible.

Caring for A Parent or Client with Dementia? Practical Tips to Deal with Wandering

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Mar 06, 18

If you are caring for a parent or client with dementia, the thought of them wandering will no doubt causes you anxiety. Unfortunately, over 60% of dementia sufferers will wander at one time or another. However, despite the statistics, there are things you can do to help ensure their safety. Whether it has happened before or you are thinking ahead to the possibility, these practical tips can be very helpful when dealing with someone who is at risk of wandering. Practical Tips To Keep Your Senior From Wandering 1. Make sure that all of the doors and windows are secure, without creating a fire hazard. If possible, install devices that will alert you if doors or windows are opened. For doors that have deadbolt locks, try moving the locks to a less noticeable spot; perhaps higher or lower on the door. Also, if you already have an alarm system, you may be able to adjust the settings or wiring to fit your changing needs. 2. Sometimes seniors try to leave home to get something to eat or drink. If that is the case with your client or loved one, perhaps you can keep water and snacks handy in areas they frequently relax, including near their bed. When that isn’t plausible, ask them regularly if they need anything, before they attempt to go searching for it on their own. 3. Many dementia sufferers think they still need to ‘go to work’ or do other things that used to be part of their normal routine. Also, boredom and restlessness can increase the risk of them wanting to leave home. Physical activity and planned movement can help keep your loved one content. Try to establish a daily routine to help instill a sense of responsibility and stability in your loved one. 4. If possible, avoid unfamiliar or busy places that can cause confusion and disorientation. When it is necessary to enter new surroundings, be sure not to leave a person with dementia unattended, even if it is just for a couple of minutes. In their attempt to get themselves to a familiar environment, they may inadvertently wander too far. 5. If your client or parent shouldn’t be alone outside, try and make your neighbors aware of this. Simply seeing a senior walking outdoors will not alarm most people, especially if they don’t look at all disoriented. Try to make your specific situation clear to those that live nearby and provide your phone number so they can call you if necessary. 6. Look into getting ID jewelry, such as this bracelet from the Alzheimer’s Association. This particular model works with a 24-hour nationwide service. After you call to inform them of what has happened, they will contact members of the community network as well as emergency personnel to begin looking for the person wearing the bracelet. 7. If your client or loved one does wander off, spend no more than 15 minutes looking for them in the most likely and nearby places. Then, notify law enforcement. Provide them with a recent photo and a description of the clothing there are wearing. It is wonderful when the adult children of aging parents are able to provide the care needed as they age. However, this isn’t always possible due to the busy lives we all lead! Also, being the sole caregiver can be very taxing. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. can help by sending caregivers into the home to assist with daily living activities. Please contact us today for more information about our home care services.

Celebrating 30 Years – Announcing February’s Winner!

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Mar 01, 18

Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is pleased to announce the February winner of our ‘Celebrating 30 Years’ grant; Mr. John “Johnny” Kruger. Johnny was nominated by his sister, Genny Kirkland. Mr. Kruger, 77, was born in Minnesota but has resided in Denver since 1954. When Johnny was just 18 months old, he was accidentally given an adult dose of a vaccination that caused seizures and ongoing health challenges. Then, Johnny was struck with Polio when he was just 4 years-old. Complications from the Polio caused Johnny to suffer paralysis and additional seizures. He is the true definition of a ‘fighter’! He lives in North Denver with the help of caregivers and his sister. He comes from a family of 2 boys and 3 girls. Both of his parents are passed. His father was in the Army and Johnny’s family moved around a lot due to his dad being stationed in different places. His favorite place to visit is his sister’s cabin in the mountains of California. He enjoys playing solitaire, puzzles and he loves the Colorado Rockies! His beloved cat, Panther, very recently passed away. He was 18 years-old. One of the things Johnny will be doing with the $300 grant is adopting a new cat! Congratulations Johnny!

Recent News | Elderlink Home Care - Part 2