By Sheree Ellingson
Okay, I know, you are really getting into these “Hmmmm moments” however; I want to talk about a different subject this week. More “Hmmm moments” in next blog.
I am always on the look out for alternative methods, ideas, medications, medical equipment, etcetera for any type of diagnosed conditions. Approximately five years ago, I was learning about Parkinson’s (remarkably interesting disease). I have a friend Michele who had told me on several occasions that she could not smell anything. Michele said the doctors said, “That’s happens sometimes, no big deal.” After taking these classes, I found out one of the first possible signs of Parkinson’s is losing the sense of smell; up to 10 years prior to any other signs.
Let’s talk about pelvic fractures. When my middle child was involved in Pony Club many years ago, she was in a competition for jumping her pony over fences. At the beginning of the weekend when the competition was going to occur, Christopher Reeves (Superman) fell head-first, over his horse’s shoulders, causing him to be paralyzed.
Let’s talk about knee replacements. That’s a painful conversation! I have found that in general men do better after a knee replacement than women do. Why is that? I know the man’s knee replacement device is supposed to be different than a woman’s device; however, even if the replacement is the correct device, men still do better overall.
I have been in the senior care industry for going on 14 years now and over those years I have noticed several things that make me go “Hmmm!”
At first glance, dental care may not seem like such an important issue, but the reality is that it can have a direct impact on the rest of the body. Learn why oral health is an important part of maintaining your overall health.
We know all families are different and the dynamics that build those families are what make each one unique. Our goal is to help all families no matter what part of the journey they are on. It begins by doing your best to honor a promise you made to your loved one.
They have saved their entire lives to be able to afford their “future” and when you believe the time has come to spend their money on today’s needs or wants, they refuse to spend the money. Sound familiar? The Great Depression left a lasting impression on our seniors.
End of life conversations are hard to have. As hard as that conversation can be, a plan is needed to prevent confusion on what your loved one's wishes are. There are some different end of life forms and knowing which are appropriate is important and here's why.
Do your parents have a long-term care policy? Let us talk about that. I am finding more and more seniors who have long-term care policies where the senior has not filed a claim because they are “waiting” till a time when they really need it. Does this describe your parent?
Social Distancing-is it dragging you down? I, who am a total introvert and truly love to be by myself am feeling overwhelmed at this point.
After the holidays, what did you see? As we start a new year, let us reflect on what we saw during the holidays. If you came to visit your elderly parent, what did you notice that’s different?
Today, I’m going to take you on a little journey. A glimpse of five minutes in the life of a senior with Alzheimer’s. Take a deep breath, breathe in, hold it and breathe out. Do you feel relaxed? Good, now let’s start on our journey.
In order to stay informed, our staff is continually taking courses offered on all types of diseases and health issues. I’ve had an acquaintance for several years who had stated she had lost her sense of smell and the doctors just told her, “sometimes this happens, no worries.” After taking several classes on Parkinson’s, I found an interesting fact...
I meet with families every day where the daughter is overwrought and tired from taking care of her parents. Even if it is just a few hours per day and especially if you are the only one taking care of your parent full-time; caregiving takes its toll.
I know the feeling, being pulled in so many directions all the time. Working, grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, taking care of your family and on top of that; having to help your mom/dad. So many of us are having the same struggle, you are not alone. My personal struggle is taking care of my mom 650 miles away from me. Wow! That makes it even harder.
Great Place to WorkInstitute has recognized Senior Helpers as a Great Place to Work With over 300 locations nationwide, Senior Helpers’ rapidly growing business is laser-focused on helping older adults age with dignity. Senior Helpers of west Jacksonville provides care for 50 clients in the five counties of Duval, Clay, Nassau, Baker and St. Johns area and employs 80 people. Senior Helpers’ culture is based on strong core values, recognition of achievements and respect.
There are some who say technology is not for the elderly. The popular opinion is that those who are aging cannot understand how computers, the internet, virtual reality, and other 21st-century gadgets function. But this idea cannot be entirely accurate since many retirement homes, senior living communities, and families are offering seniors technology that will assist in providing for their needs and will make their lives run more smoothly.