For The Caregiver Archives - Fading Memories Podcast: Recent Episodes
Alzheimer's Caregivers
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How Caregivers Can Utilize eBooks to Enhance Communication. Caregivers play an important role for seniors. They are responsible for helping with a majority of personal care, including eating, dressing, bathing, managing chores, and taking medication. Given the breadth of responsibilities they have, caregivers need to have essential skills. One of the most important is communication.
The National Institute on Aging highlights that proper communication with older adults strengthens the patient-provider relationship, which improves health outcomes since there is a trust established between parties involved. Approaching communication strategies does have its challenges, though, especially when a caregiver is new to handling seniors. Fortunately, there are resources to help with this, and our post “A Caregiver’s List of Virtual Resources for Older Adults” highlights how technology makes it easier to access content across a wide variety of topics. This is especially true for ebooks, which are growing in popularity for a reason.
Why ebooks are a valuable resource
Being a caregiver means you’re understandably busy, but ebooks are popular because these make it convenient to access different titles to guide you. To illustrate, the ebooks on Everand come in a wide variety of genres, including those geared towards care providers. Some titles, such as “The Caregiver’s Guide” and “The Proactive Caregiver,” are readily available to educate and inform you about effective strategies for handling communication challenges. The app also allows you to access content offline and on-the-go, so you can easily read them on your device during your break or leisure time.
Ebooks also have the distinct advantage of not being limited by physical demand. Whereas relying on a book might mean that you need to sign up for a waiting list for a popular title, an ebook is much easier to find online. Case in point, if you’re someone who frequents the library, you can access ebooks with Libby easily. The app connects to your local library to lend you books without needing to check out a title physically. While there can be queues for popular titles, you can still browse through your library’s ebook selection and read them on your personal device. All in all, this underscores why ebooks can be a prime resource for any caregiver.
How eBooks aid in caregiver communicationsHelp bridge connections easier
The American Association of Retired Persons emphasizes that one of the biggest communication challenges encountered by caregivers is being able to collaborate with their charge smoothly. In line with this, one of their earlier surveys found that around 44% of patients felt that their caregivers were inconsistent in communicating with them, while 39% felt interacting with caregivers was too time-consuming.
As such, it's important that caregivers have the initiative to work closely with their patients and streamline communication for more effective care. An ebook that can help with this is "The Proactive Caregiver" by Jessica Lizel Cannon since it strives to inspire caregivers of all ages to become empowered in their roles by helping them overcome the challenges that come with the job through tips on self-confidence.
Understand a patient better
According to HealthinAging, another prominent barrier to communication is seeing eye-to-eye between caregiver and patient. The caregiver needs to follow doctor-prescribed care instructions, while a patient may find it unnecessary and refuse to be taken care of. This can make it hard to find a middle ground.
Caregivers should take the time to understand their patients better to see effective results and find strategies that work to convince them to cooperate. The ebook "Building Better Caregivers" by Kate Lorig, Dr.P.H., can help guide you on this since it includes some of the best advice from caregiving research and important lessons and testimonies learned from thousands of caregivers. Some of the sections found in the book highlight effective communication and understanding your care partner's brain to help you find the right approaches to daily tasks.
Be a stress management resource
It's no secret that being a caregiver takes a mental, physical, and emotional toll, especially when dealing with persistent challenges like a stubborn patient. This can be frustrating and a pain point in communication, as your pent-up emotions can make it difficult to extend compassion when talking to your charge.
Having outlets for yourself is, therefore, very important. You can also peruse ebooks like "Take My Hand" by Tia Amdurer, as this has well-researched advice and heartfelt anecdotes from the author's own hospice background to provide a personal touch in guiding you through the challenges of being a caregiver. Besides practical guidance, the book also includes journaling prompts that you can follow to encourage self-reflection and better communication strategies about what you're feeling about your role.
Article written by Rosette June
Exclusively for
The post How Caregivers Can Utilize eBooks to Enhance Communication appeared first on Fading Memories Podcast.
Photo by Kampus Production: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-man-slicing-tomatoes-in-the-kitchen-7551595/ To this day, Alzheimer’s is still one of the most prevalent and complex cognitive diseases worldwide. It currently affects 6.7 million Americans, most of whom are over the age of 65. However, age is just one factor that influences this condition. Another impactful factor is nutrition, which can largely affect a person’s […]
Being a senior caregiver is a highly fulfilling and rewarding job. However, many caregivers continue to face financial challenges along with the risk of job burnout. With the increasing cost of living, having a side career is a great way to earn extra income while having an opportunity to refocus your attention so that you […]
guest author Johnny Kershaws
Determining when memory care is necessary for a loved one's well-being and care can be challenging. People may face changes in their mental abilities as they age, necessitating more support and help. Memory care provides specialized care and activities designed specifically for those with cognitive or memory impairments such as dementia and Alzheimer's. While deciding to transition a loved one into a memory care center for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be difficult, it is essential to recognize when their needs have grown beyond what can be provided at home.
What is a memory care facility?A memory care facility is a particular type of residential care facility that provides specialized care and support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other forms of cognitive impairment. Memory care facilities for seniors with Alzheimer’s are designed to meet the unique needs of their residents, providing a secure environment where they can receive personalized attention and assistance in performing activities of daily living. In addition to providing physical and medical care, memory care facilities offer emotional support and activities that help residents maintain their independence and quality of life.
Warning signs that memory care might be necessaryWhen it comes to signs of needing memory care, certain behaviors and changes may indicate the need for more specialized care. If an individual is experiencing any of the following signs for an extended period, it may be time to seek out a memory-care program:
Forgetting familiar or easily remembered informationForgetting familiar or easily remembered information is a vital sign that memory care may be necessary. This could include forgetting the names of close friends and family members, places they’ve been before, how to complete everyday tasks, or even forgetting their names.
Struggling with day-to-day tasksStruggling with day-to-day tasks is another sign that memory care may be needed. This could include difficulty getting dressed, basic hygiene such as brushing teeth or combing hair, having trouble preparing meals, and confusion with medications.
Disorientation and ConfusionDisorientation and confusion can also indicate that memory care may be needed. This could include needing clarification about the time of day, location, or even their current place in life. It might also need help understanding directions or conversations.
Changes in Personality and MoodChanges in personality and mood can also signify that memory care may be necessary. This could include becoming easily frustrated, irritable, disoriented with the current situation, or having difficulty controlling emotions. It might also include apathy and withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities or social interactions.
Neglect personal hygiene and housekeepingNeglecting personal hygiene and housekeeping tasks is another sign that memory care may be necessary. This could include forgetting to shower or bathe, not dressing appropriately for the weather or situation, and leaving laundry and dishes undone. It could also mean failing to take medications or having difficulty preparing meals.
A decline in physical healthA decline in physical health can also indicate that more specialized care is needed. This could include increased falls, difficulties with coordination, and weight loss due to forgetting to eat or not understanding how to feed oneself. It might also include changes in sleeping patterns or difficulty managing bathroom use.
Unsafe at HomeIf an individual exhibits any of the above signs and is no longer safe at home, it may be time to consider memory care. This could include leaving stoves on or forgetting to turn off appliances, wandering away from home, not remembering how to get back home, or even becoming a danger to themselves or others.
Consider a memory care program if signs are exhibited for an extended period. Memory Care programs specialize in creating safe and nurturing environments that provide the best quality of life while helping individuals manage their memory loss. These programs also offer specialized activities, treatments, and therapies to provide individuals with ongoing care. With the right program and care, individuals can live life with dignity.
What to look for in a memory care facilityWhen searching for a memory care facility, it is essential to consider the needs and preferences of the individual needing care. Finding a facility with a setting designed especially for people with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia is essential. It is also helpful to research whether the memory care facility provides various activities to stimulate cognitive functioning and social engagement. Such activities include art classes, music programs, reminiscence therapy, exercise classes, and other engaging experiences.In addition to activity programming for the residents, it is essential to look into the staff-to-resident ratio of the facility. It is best practice for memory care facilities to provide a staff-to-resident ratio of at least 1:8.
When choosing a memory care facility, it is important to consider the security measures in place. These may include secure entrances and exits, motion detectors, alarms, and other safety features. It is also essential to look for a facility that offers specialized training for staff members on topics related to dementia care.
Financial Considerations When Choosing Memory CareWhen choosing memory care for a loved one, financial considerations should be considered. Memory care can be expensive, and not all families can afford the care their loved ones need. To ensure you select the suitable memory care facility and get the best possible value for your money, there are a few main factors to consider.
First, determine how much you can expect to pay for memory care. Different facilities will offer different levels of care and services at extra costs. Find out what services are included in the cost and what other charges might be added. It’s also important to compare prices among different facilities to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Suppose you qualify for any special discounts or assistance programs that might be offered to help make memory care more reasonable. In that case, that is another crucial financial factor to consider. When deciding where to place your loved one, finding out if a Medicaid waiver program is available in your state is vital since many offer financial support to people needing memory care. While it's not always simple to forecast how much the costs will be over time, it's also crucial to consider the long-term cost of memory care. For a limited time, some facilities may provide lower rates, but at a later point, they may raise the price. Before committing, ensure you know all the expenses and fees related to memory care.
The final thoughtThere is no simple solution to the question of when to move a loved one into memory care. Ultimately, consider the benefits and drawbacks of several options and select the one that best meets their requirements. When making this challenging choice, it's necessary to consider variables including safety, comfort level, affordability, and quality of life. Deciding to discuss the topic with a reputable healthcare professional is also beneficial. Whatever you choose, remember that your primary concern is always giving your loved one the most excellent care and support possible. You can locate the ideal memory care institution for your loved one with information and investigation.
Pets and senior citizens — a match made in heaven. Whether it’s a furry feline, a playful puppy, or even a floppy-eared bunny, a pet can bring so much joy and comfort to the lives of seniors. But the benefits of pet ownership go far beyond companionship; there are wonderful health benefits and improvements to the all-around well-being of seniors.
Improved Mental Health
Being a senior can be lonely and isolating at times, but having a pet can provide a source of comfort and support. Just petting or playing with a pet can lower stress and anxiety levels. It also increases mood levels.
Often, senior citizens are disconnected from loved ones. Their families may have relocated to other cities and states and may have been losing their friends to illness and death. Pets provide unconditional love that can be critical for happiness.
Improved Physical Health
Whether it’s a walk around the block or playing on the floor, having a pet naturally gets us moving around. A pet provides excellent motivation for a senior citizen to move and be active.
Physical activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and lowers the chances of having chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity. A walk of thirty minutes a day is enough to increase cardiovascular health and improve muscle tone.
Playing on the floor with your pet, getting down to their level, also helps with stretching and balance. Playing with a pet can also help improve fine motor skills and coordination, which can be particularly beneficial for seniors with arthritis. It’s even possible to have a service dog if you suffer from Parkinson’s disease.
What Pet Is Best?
You’ll want to consider your lifestyle and daily routine to see how well a pet will fit into your life. Do you have the strength and energy for a larger or active dog, or would you be better suited to a small companion dog? Or, for lower maintenance, a cat or even a bird. The important thing is that the pet lowers your stress, not adds to it.
What kind of financial resources do you have? Owning a pet can be expensive. Some pets will require more care than others, so you’ll want to take that into consideration as well.
Caring for Your Pet
One of the most important decisions you’ll make for your pet is what to feed them. The pet food you choose can make a difference in the health and longevity of your new best friend. This could help with that. It’s a pet food that uses a slow cooking process. It creates a tantalizing taste and crunchy texture and allows the protein to retain more of its natural nutrition than high-heat cooking processes.
Regular visits to the vet can help prevent illnesses or catch them when they’re manageable. Look into pet insurance to help with the costs of that.
Finding the right pet can make a huge difference in the life of a senior, and they can make a huge difference in their pet's life with two-way care, like feeding them healthy food and giving them the right exercise. It really is a match made in heaven.
Fading Memories is a supportive podcast that focuses on conversations with people who can help with resources and ideas for whichever stage of Alzheimer’s your loved one is in. Tune in today.
Are you looking for healthy, quick, and tasty lunch items for your elderly loved ones? Lunchtime doesn't have to be complicated for you—or boring for them! Here are some easy-peasy mid-day meal ideas to get you started:
Simple yet Scrumptious Meals for Seniors1. Veggie Wrap A wrap is a great way to pack in lots of veggies, protein, and flavor into one meal. Simply use your favorite wraps (wheat or gluten-free) as a base, and add some grated Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, and cucumber slices. Then, top with shredded lettuce and a bit of hummus. Finally, add their favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or olives, for an even more exciting and flavorful meal.
2. Egg Salad Sandwich This classic is sure to please! Boil eggs ahead of time. Then, mix with a bit of mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Add crunchy celery or onions for added texture if desired.
3. Zucchini PizzaPizza doesn't have to be unhealthy! Slice a large zucchini in half (lengthwise). Then, top each half with their favorite sauce and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle some herbs on top for extra flavor and bake until the cheese is melted.
4. Lentil SoupFor a tasty and nourishing lunch, try making a pot of lentil soup! First, pick up some lentils that are ready to cook or pre-cooked. Then, add a vegetable broth with diced tomatoes, celery, carrots, potatoes, and whatever else your elderly loved ones fancy. Simmer until all the veggies are tender for them to enjoy fully!
5. Quinoa BowlQuinoa is an excellent source of protein and can be used in many different recipes! Cook some quinoa, then top with roasted veggies, grated Parmesan cheese, and sliced avocado. Drizzle over a bit of olive oil or your favorite vinaigrette for an extra punch of flavor.
6. Baked Sweet PotatoSweet potatoes are packed with fiber and other nutrients that help keep the elderly healthy. Simply bake a sweet potato in the oven until tender, then top it with cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or other toppings of their liking.
7. Tomato SoupThere's nothing like a warm bowl of tomato soup to soothe away hunger pangs! Start by cooking diced tomatoes in a pot. Then, add some vegetable broth and your loved ones' favorite herbs (basil, oregano, and thyme all work great). Serve with buttery toast or croutons.
8. Bean BurritoThis is a great lunch idea that can be made ahead of time. Simply top a wrap with cooked beans, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Then, wrap it up and enjoy!
9. Tuna Salad SandwichMake a healthier version of the classic tuna salad sandwich using low-fat mayonnaise instead of full-fat. Add chopped celery, onion, and pickles to the tuna for extra flavor.
10. Omelet WrapMake breakfast for lunch with this tasty omelet wrap! Scramble eggs in a bowl with diced tomatoes and onions. Then, spoon the mixture into a large tortilla, and roll it all up. Add some grated Parmesan cheese for an even cheesier wrap. Serve with your pick of salsa or hot sauce, if desired.
11. Broccoli and Parmesan PotatoesThis recipe is an awesome way to get your daily dose of vegetables! Start by baking a potato in the oven until tender. Then cut it in half, and scoop out the inside. Mash it up with some butter, Parmesan cheese, cooked broccoli, and whatever other ingredients they like or are available in the pantry. Fill the potato skins with the mixture and bake again until golden brown. Delicious!
12. Egg and Vegetable MuffinsMake these healthy egg muffins for an easy grab-and-go lunch! Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, and coat a muffin tin (for 12 cups) with cooking spray. Whisk together eggs, diced tomatoes, bell peppers (or any veggies of your choice), seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Spread the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, and bake for 20 minutes or until it becomes lightly golden. Serve with a side of fruit for a balanced meal.
13. Vegetable and Lentil Stir-FryThis stir-fry is a tasty and nutritious lunch option full of protein and veggies! Start by sautéing your loved ones' favorite vegetables in a pan (carrots, bell peppers, and onions are all great choices). Then add cooked lentils and seasonings. Serve over some cooked brown rice or quinoa.
14. Chicken Salad WrapFor a hearty lunch, make a chicken salad wrap with diced chicken breast mixed with mayonnaise and their favorite herbs or spices. Pile the mixture onto a large tortilla and wrap it with some lettuce or spinach for extra crunch.
15. Cauliflower Bean Dip with Lemon and HerbsThis tasty lunch item is a great way to get some of the recommended daily nutrients. Not only will you be getting a healthy dose of veggies, but the lemon and herbs add an extra zing that will tantalize the taste buds. To make it, start by sautéing garlic and onion in olive oil over medium heat until lightly browned. Then add cooked cauliflower florets, white beans (or chickpeas), nutritional yeast, ground cumin, and salt & pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes or so before stirring in fresh lemon juice and herbs like thyme or oregano. Serve with crackers, sliced veggies, or pita chips, and you’ve got a tasty and nutritious lunch.
16. Kale Caesar SaladTop off any meal with this super-healthy kale Caesar salad! Start by massaging some kale leaves with a bit of olive oil. Then, toss in the dressing (homemade or store-bought). Top off with some Parmesan cheese and croutons for added crunch. Yum!
17. Pasta PrimaveraPasta Primavera is an Italian favorite that's quick and nutritious! Start by boiling some whole wheat pasta until al dente, then mix in your favorite vegetables such as tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives. Finally, toss with garlic-infused olive oil to finish off the dish.
18. Greek SaladSalads don't have to be dull! For a unique twist, try making a Greek salad. Start by slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions into thin slices. Add some feta cheese, olives, and pepperoncini peppers for added taste. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, and serve on top of some lettuce or spinach leaves. Delicious!
The TakeawayNo matter what type of lunch you decide to make for your beloved golden agers, always be sure to include plenty of healthy foods from each food group, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, and healthy fats. Doing so will ensure they get the nutrition they need while still enjoying tasty meals they love. Happy meal prepping!
For more brilliant tips to help you care for your elderly loved ones, visit the Fading Memories Podcast blog today.
Coach Judy BurkleYou are caring for a loved one and struggling to care for yourself. You know this isn't a sustainable way to live, but what options do you have? In this bonus episode, I talk to Judy Burkle of Coach Judy about ways to avoid burnout. Judy also has a Burnout Prevention Membership you may want to consider. This program is for caregivers of aging parents who are tired of feeling burnt out and exhausted every day or never want to feel that way!
This bonus episode offers tips, behind-the-scenes conversations, and details about her program. It's a quick way to learn some burnout prevention methods and learn about two caregivers with dogs named Remy.
Find Judy here https://judyburkle.kartra.com/page/TdQ425
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Guest Submission from Johny Kershaws 1. Introduction to Alzheimer's: Alzheimer's disease is a disease that causes memory, thinking, and behavior problems. Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to talking to someone with Alzheimer's, as each individual's condition will progress differently. […]
Image credit: Pexels Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/nurse-measuring-the-blood-pressure-of-a-patient-6129676/ Nurses are in high demand in the United States. In fact, due to this demand, it's projected that there will be far more nursing jobs compared to any other profession. As such, it remains the fastest-growing career path in the country. Be that as it may, there is one particular nurse job […]
Being a caregiver is an enormous responsibility. Often, caregivers become so used to putting someone else first that they completely neglect their well-being. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’re someone providing care for a loved one, Fading Memories Podcast advises keeping well while staying on task. Time Management When striving for […]
Life continues to prove that love can find you at any age. However, when you partner up later in life, there's more to sort through than if you were in your 20s or 30s. Marriage, at this point, becomes a union of two people with longer histories and vast life experiences. Here are tips to […]
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Caregivers & employment challenges were a big problem before Covid-19 made them worse. This is a companion article to the podcast episode Caregiving & Employment – Make it All Work. Currently, there are over 16 million Americans that require help with daily living. Most of these people get help from unpaid family members and friends. Some […]
Memories are profoundly linked to music. We know this because we remember what was going on when a particular song was popular. We associate songs with our first love, our first break up so it’s not surprising that music can reach someone locked in a dying brain. Even for people with severe dementia, music can […]
Regular listeners know a lot about my caregiving journey, but maybe you’re new here. Even if you’re not new, there are stories I probably haven’t discussed much on the podcast. Coupled with what you’ve already heard, there’s a lot I rarely shared. I have kept many of the stories relatively basic for fear that I […]
The article is on how Marie Vaudry is a caregiver of a mother, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at 59 years old uses play therapy. She is the Founder of Gleam in Your Eye, a company dedicated to bringing joy to the lives of people with dementia. The evolution of Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders does […]
There comes a time when a parent with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can no longer live independently. When that day comes, do you know where your loved one will go? Aging in place with dementia Aging in place is familiar, but is it safe? Living in their own home is an option for adults with […]
Senior gardening? As we get older, our health and mobility may change our activity level. We may no longer feel comfortable doing many of the things that we’ve enjoyed our entire lives. Fortunately, gardening is not something that we have to give up, and Fading Memories Podcast presents some senior-friendly ideas on how to keep your lawn and garden […]