Caregiver Guilt - 5 Tips for How to Cope

Caregiver Guilt: 5 Tips to Help You Cope

Jennifer Moorehead Nov 05, 18 Tags: Caregiver Burnout, Caregiver Guilt, Caregiver Guilt: 5 Tips to Help You Cope, caregivers in Denver for seniors, Denver caregivers, home care Denver, home caregiver elderly, Home health care Denver, in home caregiver for seniors, in-home care Denver, senior care Denver

If you’re experiencing caregiver guilt, you’re not alone. Caring for aging parents or loved ones often means less time for you and the things you enjoy doing. Balancing their needs with your work and family demands can leave little time for you. Caregiver guilt is very real and learning how to manage the guilt is important for your physical and emotional health and well-being. Here are 5 tips for coping with caregiver guilt: 1. Identify and Acknowledge Your Guilt Caring for an aging parent or loved one can creates feelings of guilt, anger, and resentment. You envy friends who are taking weekend trips and yet you feel guilty if you schedule one of your own. Ask yourself why you feel the way you do and acknowledge your guilt. Learn to deal with your feelings by talking them out with trusted friends and family. Additionally, try to let go of what you can’t control. While easier said than done, acknowledging that it is impossible to be all things to all people is an important first step to managing your guilt. 2. Focus on the Why While feelings of obligation drive us to help our loved ones, you must keep your eye on the bigger picture. Your situation might be stressful now, but your time with your loved one is limited. Acknowledge that you are doing the best job you can and that your sacrifices are affording you precious time with your loved one. 3. Avoid Comparisons Chances are, you will encounter other caregivers while taking on this role. Or, perhaps you have friends in similar situations. It is important to avoid comparing your skills and abilities with those of another caregiver. What you observe doesn’t necessarily portray the entire picture of what someone else is dealing with—for example, they may not have children to care for at home and perhaps they don’t need to work. Comparing yourself to other caregivers just creates additional stress and guilt you don’t need. 4. Communication is Key While caring for our aging parents or loved ones, we sometimes fail to communicate with them. Having them participate in decision making while they are still able to do so is important for both of you. Ask them for their opinions and to clarify their wishes. Even if you are not able to accommodate them, they will feel that they were heard and their wishes are important to you. Communicate daily, if possible, even if it’s a quick phone call. Keep them up-to-date with what’s going on in your own life so they feel included as a member of the family. 5. Ask for Help Be realistic about your abilities and limitations. A superhero approach is a surefire way to experience burnout and frustration. Your loved one deserves quality care and you deserve peace-of-mind. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to extended family, friends, and neighbors and consider home care services from Elderlink. How Elderlink Can Help There’s no place like home! This is especially true for your aging parents or loved one. At Elderlink Home Care, Inc., we have been providing quality and trusted home care to Denver’s seniors for over 30 years. Our services provide the care your loved one needs and provides you with something priceless – peace of mind. Feelings of guilt and resentment are very common among family caregivers. Using your precious free time to run loved ones to appointments or for groceries leaves you with little time for yourself. In addition, your time spent with your loved one is rushed and often stressful. In-home care allows you better quality time with your loved one for simply enjoying each other’s company. For 30 years, Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has helped families in situations similar to yours. Let us help you by reaching out today. Contact us today to discuss your loved one’s needs and to learn more about our services.

Common Caregiving Challenges

Jennifer Moorehead Oct 15, 18 Tags: caregivers in Denver for seniors, Caregiving, Common Caregiving Challenges, Denver caregivers, home care Denver, home caregiver elderly, Home health care Denver, in-home care Denver, questions to ask when hiring a home caregiver, senior care Denver

Caregiving for an elderly client or loved one is an honor and a privilege, but it can also be incredibly difficult at times. In many cases, you’ll find yourself feeling overwhelmed or struggling with whether or not you’re going to be able to do enough in your life. Being prepared for those challenges and knowing what to expect can help you overcome them–or at least offer a little more perspective on what’s needed to care for the senior in your life. Problem #1: Being Overwhelmed with Chores Caring for an elderly loved one means taking care of a wide range of chores, including the day-to-day care around their home. Chances are, you’re already taking care of those tasks around your own home, which means that when you’re caring for an elderly loved one, the responsibilities are doubled. Those responsibilities can quickly become extremely overwhelming. Organization is key to maintaining your schedule. It’s also important to know when its time for some outside help. Problem #2: Financial Concerns You wouldn’t put a cost on caring for your aging parent for the world, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t expensive. If your parent’s money is limited or they didn’t properly plan for retirement, all the family members may need to kick in to help provide care. Unfortunately, you may see financial stress from both sides: while you’re working hard to care for them, it can be hard for you to put in the hours you need at work, too. Problem #3: Feelings of Isolation If you are the primary caretaker for a loved one who needs daily care, you’re with them constantly–and that can quickly lead to social stress. You’re isolated from your friends, your social life, and even other family members. Its important to remember to make time for yourself and take care of your needs. Problem #4: Exhaustion In some cases, caregiving may require physical exertion. Not only that, you have increased responsibilities resting on your shoulders and little time to complete them all. With stress levels mounting, it’s little wonder that many caregivers report feelings of exhaustion that only grow as caregiving continues. Problem #5: Guilt “Mom guilt” is a familiar challenge for many women: they’re trying to give as much as they can to their families, but they’re also stretched in many different directions. Caregivers often experience similar guilt. You may feel guilty because you aren’t doing more, guilt for the things that you’re neglecting in order to provide care for your senior loved one, and even guilt for feeling resentful of the things you’ve been asked to do. Worse, you’re struggling to make enough time for your other family members and relationships, and may struggle with constant feelings of guilt. Caring for a senior loved one can be incredibly challenging. It’s not something you have to face alone! In-home care can make it much easier to ensure your loved one’s needs are being met – as well as your own. If you’re struggling to provide care for your senior loved one by yourself or if you need a break, contact us. We’ll work with you to ensure that your loved one is cared for, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Caring for a Loved One with Parkinson’s Disease

Jennifer Moorehead Sep 11, 18 Tags: caregivers in Denver for seniors, home care agencies in Denver, home care Denver, Home health care Denver, in-home care Denver, Parkinson’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease for senior, senior care Denver

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, about a million people in the United States (and 10 million people worldwide) are living with Parkinson’s disease, while another 60,000 Americans receive the diagnosis every year. This progressive nervous system disorder is most common in those over age 60, but it can impact younger individuals, as well. If someone in your life suffers from Parkinson’s, you well know the challenges they face with tremors, imbalance, stiffness and coordination. As the disease progresses, these tremors may start to interfere with daily life, and they might face additional symptoms like depression, emotional issues, sleep disorders, trouble eating and incontinence. Securing home care services, becoming a caregiver yourself, or a combination of both options will help your loved one live the highest quality of life possible within the scope of his or her symptoms. The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Caring.com, and Healthline share these suggestions to help offer the best care for your loved one with Parkinson’s: Be There for Medical Visits Your loved one will appreciate the moral support of your presence at the doctor’s office, but it’s also important that you listen carefully and take notes regarding their condition. They may not be able to remember all the details. The doctor may also be able to offer some advice to you as a caregiver. Stay Informed Read as much as you can about Parkinson’s so you understand the disease and what your loved one will go through. You’ll also want to be well-versed about your loved one’s insurance: what type of coverage do they have for prescriptions, therapy and long-term needs? Watch for Changes Parkinson’s doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Some cases progress more quickly than others. Watch your parent or loved one carefully to notice any changes in their movement or behavior as the result of the disease or perhaps as a side effect of certain medications. Always report any changes to their doctor. They might not notice the changes or forget to tell their doctor. Get Organized You’ll need to keep track of medical and therapy appointments as well as prescriptions. Help ensure your parent or loved one is taking all necessary medications on schedule. Listen Allow your loved one to retain as much independence as possible. They may need more help later on but continue to offer what is necessary and welcome. Listen as they talk about their needs and concerns. Chances are, they are also afraid and might appreciate the opportunity to talk about their feelings. Ask for Help It takes a team to care for a loved one with Parkinson’s. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. This is essential to prevent caregiver burnout. Being the best possible caregiver for your loved one with Parkinson’s means taking care of yourself, too. You may find that some in-home assistance to help with simple tasks such as grocery shopping and errands might provide you with a lot of relief and extra time. You might also consider joining a support group for caregivers. It’s helpful to have the support and advice of people who are experiencing a similar journey. Get Professional Assistance In addition to your loved one, you may also have a career and a family that need your attention. Working with a home care company will allow yourself more time to focus on your loved one with Parkinson’s as well as the other areas of your life. It’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed or stressed caring for a loved one. Be sure to seek help when you need it. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has been serving the Denver area with home care assistance for over 30 years. We send caregivers into the home to assist you or your loved one with the activities of daily living. Don’t wait until you feel burned out, resentful or overwhelmed caring for your loved one, please contact us to help ensure your loved one is able to age in place with comfort and dignity.

5 Ways to Help Seniors with Poor Eyesight

Jennifer Moorehead Jun 04, 18 Tags: Alzheimer's care Denver, caregivers in Denver for seniors, denver home care, denver home care agencies, denver senior assisted living, Elderlink, Elderlink Home Care, Elderlinks, Poor Eyesight

Vision loss is difficult for seniors. As the years go by, they may start to lose the ability to do the things they’ve always done, simply because they can’t see well enough to do those activities. The most common causes of poor eyesight in elderly adults are macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataract and glaucoma; however, no matter the reason, the result can be the same: feelings of frustration and depression due to decreased independence. Fortunately, there are ways for you and your elderly loved one’s caregiver to ease this challenge. Use these five techniques to help your loved one navigate the world with greater ease and comfort despite a loss of vision. Face Them While You’re Speaking Facing a senior with vision loss helps them hear you more clearly and identify where you are in the room. Listen attentively and offer verbal cues to indicate your involvement in the conversation. You’ll also want to be clear about ending a conversation or leaving the room, so the person doesn’t keep talking while you’re not there to listen. Let Them Set the Pace While walking with a vision-impaired senior, match their pace to avoid accidentally pushing or pulling. It can be difficult for the elderly to maintain balance, anyway; with poor eyesight this becomes even more challenging. If you accidentally encourage them to move a step too fast or too slow, it can disrupt their balance and cause a fall; it may also cause anxiety if they are placing their feet before they feel comfortable and ready for each step. Explain Loud Noises We may hear a strange noise and see a dog across the street; we know the dog was barking or howling. However, sometimes a bark doesn’t sound like a bark at all, especially if you don’t have the visual cue to know where the sound came from. Screeching tires, backfiring cars, animal noises, and falling objects can be difficult to identify without seeing where the sounds originated. Without that visual context, the sounds can be alarming or even frightening. Therefore, it’s helpful if you simply explain the noises: “Wow, that’s a big dog! He looks like a bear” or “Those construction workers just knocked down an entire wall!” gives context to the sudden noise. Describe What’s Happening Every moment is full of little pleasures, and your elderly loved one may miss a lot of them if they can’t see them. Take some time to talk about what you’re seeing in front of you. If you’re at an event, like a graduation, this might mean a little play-by-play of what’s happening on stage and how your graduate looks in his gown. If you’re walking down the street, you might like to point out a unique car, an especially beautiful house or landscaped yard, or the kids who are skateboarding in the park. Let Them Hold Your Arm Even a small degree of vision loss can dampen his confidence about getting around safely. While walking with your loved one, hold their arm or allow them to hold yours so you can help guide them. Not only will this improve their confidence (they know you won’t run into anything!), it also helps them feel more stable and balanced. If you need help caring for an elderly loved one with poor eyesight, we’re here for you. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has served the Denver area for 30 years with a commitment to high-quality home care. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to creating a high quality of life for your senior in the comfort of his or her home. For more information about Elderlink Home Care, Inc.’s services, contact us. We’ll work with you to develop the right care plan for your loved one.

Delirium or Dementia? 3 Ways to Tell the Difference

Jennifer Moorehead May 29, 18 Tags: alzheimer care denver colorado, Alzheimer's care Denver, caregivers in Denver for seniors, Delirium, Dementia, dementia care denver, Denver caregivers, Elderlink, Elderlink Home Care, home care agencies in Denver

People cannot always tell the difference between delirium and dementia. Although both conditions can cause cognitive confusion and lead to emotional distress for a senior, there are some differences family members and caregivers should be aware of so the senior can receive appropriate care and treatment. What Is Delirium? Delirium is an abrupt change in the brain that causes confusion. This condition may come and go and is generally temporary and reversible. This is one of the key differences between delirium and dementia: “Delirium is also unique for its severe disorganized thought. This usually leads to a period of inattention or distraction, making the individual unable to focus on tasks. Dementia also features a poor level of focus and concentration, however, the difference is that delirium’s lack of focus stems from rapidly processed thoughts,rather than the stifled ability to conduct thought.” Delirium occurs when the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen or other nutrients, which can be caused by a variety of factors. The biggest one is chronic disease; in fact, dementia itself can cause delirium. Other causes of delirium may include: Alcohol or Drug Abuse and Withdrawal Bacterial Infections, like Urinary Tract Infections or Pneumonia Certain Prescription Medications Surgery and Procedures Requiring Anesthesia Severe Emotional Distress High Fever Sleep Deprivation Dehydration What Is Dementia? Dementia is cognitive impairment that worsens over time, caused by damage to the brain. As the Alzheimer’s Association points out, “Dementia is not a specific disease. It’s an overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.” The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s; the second most common type develops after a stroke, which is known as vascular dementia. Dementia can also be caused by a head injury or trauma, a brain tumor or even a vitamin deficiency, although such a deficiency represents a type of dementia that can often be improved when the cause is recognized and treated. Recognizing the Difference Between Delirium and Dementia Delirium and dementia have many similar symptoms: Difficulty focusing and solving problems Irritability Aggressiveness Memory loss and trouble forming new memories However, it’s essential to recognize the difference. Certain medications that may be used for dementia could actually make delirium worse; in other cases, failing to recognize delirium might mean the senior doesn’t get the care that would help ease or reverse the condition. Here are three key points to help you identify the difference between delirium and dementia: Delirium comes with an inability to focus on a task; a patient with dementia is confused because of an inability to process thoughts. The Alzheimer’s Association says the hallmark of delirium is inattention. Delirium is generally intense and short-lived; dementia is a gradual decline and you will tend to notice symptoms worsening over time. Delirium can generally be reversed if the cause is recognized and corrected; dementia generally cannot. How Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Can Help You If you have a loved one suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, Elderlink may be able to help! Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has served the Denver community for 30 years with a stellar reputation and thousands of satisfied clients. We take great pride in our knowledgeable, compassionate staff and our commitment to high-quality care. For more information about Elderlink Home Care’s services, contact us today. We’ll work with you to identify the best strategy to get your loved one the care he or she needs.

Grab the Popcorn: 5 Great Movie Choices for Dementia Clients

Jennifer Moorehead May 21, 18 Tags: caregivers in Denver for seniors, Dementia, Denver caregivers, denver home care, denver home health care, home care agencies in Denver

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

Jennifer Moorehead May 14, 18 Tags: Caregiver Burnout, caregivers in Denver for seniors, Denver caregivers, home caregiver elderly, questions to ask when hiring a home caregiver

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.

How to Help Seniors Sleep Better at Night

Jennifer Moorehead May 02, 18 Tags: alzheimer care denver colorado, caregivers in Denver for seniors, denver home care, denver home care agencies, denver home health care, Elderlink

Sleeping patterns change as people age. In fact, one study has shown that the majority of older adults experience some symptoms of sleep disorders, demonstrating the obvious need to help seniors sleep better. There are many reasons for this. Illnesses and their corresponding medications can cause sleep disruptions like insomnia or dreams that might affect sleep. Even something as positive as retirement can impact the quality of someone’s sleep because suddenly a lifetime routine is thrown off balance. A poor night’s sleep can lead to daytime fatigue and possibly more serious issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that lack of sleep contributes to impaired judgment and chronic health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. If your aging loved one or client isn’t sleeping well, there are a few simple things that may help. Simple Rituals to Help Seniors Sleep Better at Night 1. Make the Bedroom a Sleep Zone When you use your bedroom for a variety of activities, like browsing the internet, crafting, or watching television, your body doesn’t know what’s expected of it when you go in there. By making the bedroom a ‘sleep-only’ zone, your body knows it’s time to wind down and go to sleep when you’re in there. Choose a comfortable mattress and shades that block the light and help control the temperature so it’s conducive to sleep. 2. Establish a Regular Bedtime Mayo Clinic suggests going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, because, “Being consistent reinforces your body’s sleep-wake cycle.” When your bedtime approaches, your body will know it’s time to sleep. 3. Don’t Drink Alcohol Close to Bedtime Even though that glass of wine may make you feel sleepy, it interrupts your sleep during the night by blocking REM sleep (the most restorative sleep), contributing to breathing problems and causing you to get up to use the bathroom! Develop other evening rituals to wind down, such as reading, meditating or chatting on the phone. 4. Drink Less Liquid at Night Going to the bathroom throughout the night not only interrupts your sleep, but you could also have trouble falling back asleep once you get back in bed. If this is the case, even one nightly bathroom trip can potentially make you lose a lot of sleep. Encourage your loved one or client to slow down the liquid consumption in the hours before bed and of course to go to the bathroom before getting into bed. 5. Wake Up to an Active Day Keep your body moving! Often times, the aging years are less active than the earlier years in one’s life, so help your loved one or client to find activities they enjoy. Getting the recommended amount of exercise per week (two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise and muscle strengthening on two days) has been shown to help with insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea. This could include walking, biking, or dancing. Don’t forget that everyday tasks and enjoyable things like cleaning, gardening, shopping, playing with grandchildren, and more all contribute to an active day that could improve one’s sleep! Getting More Help If these tips don’t work, your parent or loved one should talk to his or her doctor about other options. A good night’s sleep is important for overall physical, mental and emotional health as well as the quality of life. If your parents need extra help at home with activities of daily living, they may benefit from in-home care. A caregiver can help your loved one have an active day and create an ideal environment for sleep. Contact us to learn more about hourly and live-in senior care.

5 Facts and Myths About In-Home Care for Seniors: Separating Fact from Fiction

Jennifer Moorehead Apr 17, 18 Tags: caregivers in Denver for seniors, Denver caregivers, denver home care agencies, denver home health care, Elderlink Home Care, in home care for seniors near me

Despite the rising popularity of in-home care for seniors, people still have reservations about bringing a caregiver into the home to care for their aging loved one. Inviting a stranger into your loved one’s home is an area of concern, however, it’s important to understand the misconceptions and truths when it comes to the home care industry. Here’s a closer look at 5 myths and facts to help you separate fact from fiction. Myths and Facts: MYTH # 1: I have no idea who will be coming into my home. FACT: The state of Colorado requires any caregiver working with senior submit to a background check. In addition, ask the agency what their selection process for caregivers is like. Many agencies do extensive screening and interviewing before bringing a caregiver on board and will be able to tell you a lot about the caregiver who will be coming into your home. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. is regulated and monitored by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. This is typical of all home care agencies. All caregivers working with Elderlink Home Care, Inc. are thoroughly screened with an extensive 4-part background check and orientation. Elderlink Home Care Inc. is a highly reputable business; serving metro-Denver for 30-years. MYTH # 2: I have children that will assist me when I need it. FACT: Often times, the adult children of aging loved ones are very involved in their parents care. However, they may have their own busy lives to manage as well. There may come a time when the aging parent needs assistance that the adult child is unable to provide. In addition, having outside help will enable the adult children to focus on the relationship with their parents as opposed to getting overwhelmed with being the primary caretaker. It also offers them tremendous peace of mind, which is priceless. When family members are the primary caregivers, burnout becomes a very real thing. Work and family demands are stressful enough. While many families hesitate to reach out for outside help due to feelings of guilt, often times it is the healthy thing to do. Having outside help allows the family to breathe easier and it reduces stress. It allows for your loved one to have focused care and for the family to manage their lives and preserve their precious and important relationship with their aging parent(s). MYTH # 3: If I need home care, my insurance will take care of it. FACT: Traditional health insurance and Medicare do not cover the costs of non-medical in-home care. Long-term care insurance will usually reimburse for this type of care if you have a policy. It is a common myth that the government will provide and pay for non-medical in-home care if a senior is no longer able to live independently in their own home. However, this is typically not the case. Health insurance or Medicare will typically cover the costs of in-home medical care after a hospitalization or surgery, however, no assistance with the activities of daily living. It is better to plan ahead and do your research in the event you may require some assistance and it is your wish to remain in the comfort of your own home. Seniors who purchased a long-term care insurance policy earlier in life can usually get reimbursed for some or all costs of non-medical home care when they determine it is needed. Typically, if a senior does not have long-term care insurance, non-medical home care is private/self-pay. MYTH # 4: Home care is too expensive, I can’t afford it. FACT: Home care is more affordable than you might think! 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 resident is $102,565.00. The average annual cost of one assisted living facility resident is $46,200.00 (Genworth Financial). MYTH # 5: Home care is for people who are totally dependent… I don’t need home care, I can do most things on my own! FACT: Caregivers help with a variety of different daily living activities. Some clients may need more help than others, however, the majority of home care recipients are still able to do a lot of things on their own. They have the home care to assist with things that are possibly becoming a little more difficult for them. This helps the client keep their routine and independence. Non-medical, in-home care includes a variety of services. Caregivers are able to assist with basic, more supportive tasks such as light housekeeping, grocery shopping, and transportation. They are also able to care for clients needing more intensive, hands-on care, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting. The type of care and level of care can be customized to meet the needs of the client. ELDERLINK HOME CARE, INC. – Specializing in In-Home Care & Serving the Denver Area In today’s world of “fake news,” it’s important to have a clear understanding of in-home care, the services, and the benefits. Elderlink Home Care, Inc. has served the Denver area for 30 years with a stellar reputation and thousands of satisfied clients. They take great pride in their knowledgeable, compassionate staff and their commitment to quality care. Don’t just take our word for it: check out the testimonials from past and present clients. The pairing process is well-planned by assessing your loved one’s needs and hand selecting a caregiver with the knowledge and skills to meet those needs. Whether it’s a basic task of laundry or a more involved task of bathing, your loved one will feel more at ease in their own home and you’ll feel less stressed knowing they are receiving great care. For more information about Elderlink Home Care, Inc’s services, contact us today. We’ll start working with you to identify the best strategy to get your loved one the care they need.

7 Tips on Finding the Best Senior Care Services Near You

Jennifer Moorehead Mar 28, 18 Tags: caregivers in Denver for seniors, Denver caregivers, denver home care agencies, denver home health care, Elderlink Home Care, senior care Denver

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.

caregivers in Denver for seniors | Elderlink Home Care