Cataract Risks and Symptoms

Most cataracts occur simply because we get older. It’s estimated that more than half of those over 80 will have a cataract at some point. This condition that occurs on the lens of the eye is caused by the proteins that break down the lens of the eye. These cataracts can happen to one eye or both and they can occur on several different areas of the eye lens. Cataracts can appear on the cortex, the nucleus, and/or the thin membrane that covers the lens, creating several cloudy areas on the lens. Having home care providers available to assist seniors when their vision is impaired can be important for their safety.

When do Cataracts Occur

Home Care Essex County NJ - Cataract Risks and Symptoms

Home Care Essex County NJ – Cataract Risks and Symptoms

For many people, cataracts start in their 40s-60s, but they don’t cause any symptoms so the person doesn’t know it. Even if it’s seen by your loved one’s optometrist or ophthalmologist during a routine eye exam, they will often recommend waiting until any action is taken if the cataract is not currently causing any sight concerns.

What Increases the Risk of Cataracts

While age is the main risk factor for getting cataracts, and the one that you’re loved one can’t do anything about, several other factors may increase their risk of developing a cataract.

  • Health conditions like diabetes or high blood sugar
  • Exposure to tobacco smoke by either being a smoker or living with one
  • Extreme alcohol consumption
  • Exposure to chemicals and pesticides
  • Using corticoids to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
  • Family history of cataracts

Cataract Symptoms

Regular eye exams will spot cataracts before your loved one has any symptoms but if your loved one doesn’t have regular eye exams, he might experience some of these symptoms.

  • Halos and streaks appear around light sources, creating a glare that makes night vision especially difficult.
  • Colors that start to look less vivid. The world may look like the color is fading out of it. The deep, rich color of the world is hard to see.
  • Bright light like the sun or car head beams at night can hurt the eyes, making your loved one look away with discomfort.
  • Vision that is blurry, cloudy, or foggy.
  • Near-sightedness that gets worse.

Cataracts are not painful in and of themselves but can cause discomfort when viewing bright lights by making the eyes much more sensitive than normal.

Home Care Can Help

If your loved one currently has cataracts and is waiting for treatment, the most difficult thing he might find that he can’t do anymore is to drive at night. Driving at night gets more difficult as a person gets older for several reasons, but when cataracts are added to those conditions, it can become dangerous for your loved one to drive at night or even at times of the day when the sun is glaring into the window. During winter months, that can mean driving is almost impossible all of the time.

A home care provider can step in and help with transportation until your loved one can drive safely again. A home care provider is a great resource for rides to appointments, events, and everyday errands. They will bring your loved one where he needs to go and home again safely.

If your loved one needs surgery, a home care team can also be a great resource when he is recovering from his surgery as well.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care Services in Essex County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




They’re Never Too Old to Go to the Fair

As summer winds down, one time-honored tradition is taking place across the country – the fair. From smaller county fairs to grand state fairs, your community is gathering together to enjoy many of the things that make your hometown or state a great place to live. Talk to your senior home care provider about the best way to have your loved one enjoy a few hours at the fair while staying safe.

There are Plenty of Activities for Older Visitors at the Fair

Senior Home Care Morris County NJ - They're Never Too Old to Go to the Fair

Senior Home Care Morris County NJ – They’re Never Too Old to Go to the Fair

While many may only think of the extreme rides like the Crazy Mouse or the Zipper that appeal mostly to the young, fairs are also a great place for people not quite as young to gather and enjoy themselves as well. There is almost guaranteed to be something for everyone and something your elderly loved one will enjoy!

Crafts and Competitions

Fairs are famous for their blue-ribbon competitions where people enter their largest watermelons, their best-baked pies, and even giant quilts made by hand. If your loved one has a special talent, she might even like being entered into one of these time-honored contests. If not, she’s sure to enjoy a leisurely walk around to see all of the entries.

Animals

Depending on where you’re from, many fairs have petting zoos and competitions for pets and domesticated animals. Your loved one might enjoy watching a dog show, horse wrangling, or some chicks hatching. If she’s an animal lover, the fair might have something right up her alley.

Food, Food, and More Food

Fairs are notorious for some of the most outlandish, yet delicious food that while you shouldn’t enjoy regularly, it makes for a great fair treat. Giant corn dogs, waffles on sticks, and triple-scoop ice cream cones are just a smattering of what your loved one may like to enjoy during a visit to her local fair.

People Watching

Don’t forget about finding a bench, having a seat, and just enjoying watching all of the families enjoy their day at the fair. It’s a great way to feel connected to the community.

Here are a few top considerations your senior home care provider can help with if going to the fair for a solo visit is not in the cards for your loved one.

Transportation

It’s not uncommon to have to park a long distance from the fair and then make the trek there on foot. A senior home care companion can drop your loved one right off at the front gate.

Mobility Assistance

Speaking of long walks, just walking around some big state fairs can easily be 10,000 steps and if your loved one isn’t used to that, you might consider having your senior home care provider pack up a wheelchair to help her around in. Depending on the terrain, an ECV might be a good choice as well.

Safety

Many fairs attract huge crowds which can mean there are people there who might want to rob or bother your elderly loved one. Having an escort like a senior home care provider will help her stay safe if anything should happen.

Weather Prep

It’s still summer, so sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water should all travel with your loved one when she visits the fair to help her stay in good shape as she visits each area.

It’s fair to say, your loved one is going to love going to the fair again.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Senior Home Care Services in Morris County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Finding the Right Home Health Care for Seniors Aging in Place

For many seniors, aging in place can be a satisfying option since it allows them to remain independent and comfortable in familiar settings. But as seniors get older, they might need extra assistance to ensure they’re safe and well. Home health care services are essential in this situation because they offer individualized care that enables seniors to live comfortably at home while getting the support they require. For family members and seniors themselves, finding the right home health care resources can make all the difference.

Determining Needs for Care

Home Health Care Somerset County NJ - Finding the Right Home Health Care for Seniors Aging in Place

Home Health Care Somerset County NJ – Finding the Right Home Health Care for Seniors Aging in Place

It’s important to understand the senior’s care needs before choosing what home health care services to incorporate. Family members can gain a better understanding of this by talking with the medical team. It also helps to understand what support home health care can provide, such as assistance with everyday tasks, medication administration, physical therapy, or specialist care for ailments like diabetes or Alzheimer’s.

Researching Options

Finding trustworthy home health service providers requires research. Loved ones should seek out organizations with a license, accreditation, and good feedback or referrals from other families. Healthcare providers, specialists who work with seniors regularly, and the internet can all provide valuable information to consider.

Examining the Services Provided

Beyond researching options, it’s also important to understand what home health services the agency offers because not all agencies offer the same thing. For instance, ensure the agency can offer the particular care required, whether it is personal care help, nursing care, therapy services, or a mix of these.

Examining the Qualifications of the Staff

Caretakers’ and medical experts’ credentials and training are vital. Family members should be able to access information about the training and experience of the providers they’re considering to ensure they’re making the best choice. Knowing these things also increases peace of mind that loved ones will be cared for appropriately.

Guaranteeing Comfort and Compatibility

A good experience depends on the senior and the caregivers getting along. To find out whether a prospective caregiver will get along with a loved one and what kind of communication style they prefer, family members might inquire about the possibility of setting up a meeting or interview. A proper fit can improve the senior’s level of comfort and contentment with the care they receive overall.

Examining Policies and Contracts

Loved ones should review the service agreement or contract with the agency thoroughly before making a decision. It’s important to recognize the conditions, cancellation procedures, and services covered under the agreement. If questions remain, don’t hesitate to ask for better clarification.

Monitoring Care

After home health care services are established, loved ones should keep an eye on the standard of care given to make sure the senior’s requirements and expectations are being met. Frequent evaluations and contact with caregivers can assist in addressing any issues as soon as they arise and modifying the care plan as needed.

Families can choose home health services with confidence by following these guidelines, which guarantee that seniors get the individualized attention and assistance they require to age in their own homes. An enjoyable and fulfilling aging-in-place experience can result from making well-informed decisions and putting the senior’s welfare first.

Sources: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2018/hiring-caregiver.html
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/senior-housing/home-care-services-for-seniors.htm
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/medical-alert-systems/support-for-older-adults-living-alone/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Health Care Services in Somerset County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Importance of Home Health Support for Seniors After Hospitalization

The need for all-encompassing care increases as seniors get older, particularly after a hospital visit. With this in mind, it’s critical to have post-hospital care services in place, such as home health, to support seniors as they begin to heal, especially when they return to their homes rather than a healthcare facility. Additionally, having a solid plan in place gives both loved ones and seniors peace of mind.

Easing the Transition from the Hospital to Home

Post-Hospital Care Berkeley Heights NJ - Importance of Home Health Support for Seniors After Hospitalization

Post-Hospital Care Berkeley Heights NJ – Importance of Home Health Support for Seniors After Hospitalization

For seniors, going home after a hospital stay can be a difficult adjustment. Post-hospital care can make all the difference, however, ensuring this transition goes as smoothly as possible. For instance, home health can assist with a range of duties, including medication management and daily living tasks such as dressing, bathing, and meal preparation. This assistance can avert issues and lower the chance of hospital readmission. It also relieves some of the stress that family members might feel if they’re unable to be with seniors all day.

Personalized and Caring Medical Attention

The individualized attention seniors receive from home health is one of its greatest benefits. This assistance is often customized to each senior’s specific needs, in contrast to the more generalized care provided in a hospital or nursing home. Additionally, home health works closely with seniors to establish the trust and support needed for successful rehabilitation. This individualized approach promotes mental and emotional well-being in addition to meeting physical health demands.

Strengthening Self-Sufficiency

Seniors aging in place value their independence, and while it might seem like adding post-hospital care to the home would diminish this independence, it has the opposite effect. This is because home health works with seniors to teach them how to manage tasks more easily after a hospital stay, ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need from their meals—and show them how to prepare healthy meals—as well as encourage physical activity and social engagement.

Reduced Risk of Readmission

Following hospitalization, seniors are frequently more vulnerable to problems, including infections or falls. When home health is part of the post-hospital care plan, they’re able to monitor issues and detect possible problems quickly so they can be handled before they become bigger issues. Additionally, home health encourages seniors to follow doctor’s orders, which increases recovery.

Increased Quality of Life

The ultimate objective of home health is to increase seniors’ standard of living. By following the post-hospital care plan, they can give seniors and their loved ones valuable support that streamlines care and offers alternatives that might not have been considered before, such as home modifications, meal preparation, or joining support groups.

It is impossible to overestimate the value of home health for seniors who choose to age in place, especially following hospitalization. Home health offers the support required to guarantee a seamless transition, individualized care, and increased freedom, in addition to lowering the risk of problems and enabling seniors to recuperate and flourish in the comfort of their own homes.

Sources: https://www.familyresourcehomecare.com/safety-from-hospital-to-home/

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Post-Hospital Care Services in Berkeley Heights NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Tips for Helping Seniors with Alzheimer’s Get Dressed

Getting dressed is something that seniors have often done on their own for years, but Alzheimer’s disease brings changes that make that formerly simple process so much more difficult. Physical and cognitive changes can all be at play in making this more difficult, so a family caregiver need to figure out what might best help their family member. Alzheimer’s care providers can help with this process.

Alzheimer's Care New Providence NJ - Tips for Helping Seniors with Alzheimer’s Get Dressed

Alzheimer’s Care New Providence NJ – Tips for Helping Seniors with Alzheimer’s Get Dressed

Simplify the Closet

When there is too much choice and clutter, seniors with Alzheimer’s disease can become easily confused. It’s worth the time to go through the closet and remove clothes that are for other seasons or that don’t fit well anymore. Storing these clothes elsewhere frees up room in the closet and reduces confusion.

Set Aside Extra Time to Get Dressed

Rushing is never good for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s care providers can help families work on routines for aging adults with cognitive illnesses and these routines ideally build in buffer time. Set aside lots of extra time before appointments and events to allow for a calm experience getting dressed.

Limit the Choices

Even with a simplified closet, sometimes there are too many choices for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease. One way around this is for family caregivers to offer seniors limited choices, say between two outfits instead of offering choices from the entire closet. This reduces frustration for everyone and it also helps seniors to continue to feel empowered by the choices they have.

Set Clothing Out in Order

Alzheimer’s care providers might also recommend that clothing gets laid out in the order it needs to be put on, with undergarments at the top of the stack. This serves as a visual prompt to help seniors stay on track to get dressed. Some seniors even find that this helps them to get dressed on their own because it’s less confusing.

Choose Clothes That Are Easy to Wear

Clothes that are difficult to wear aren’t comfortable and they’re not easy for seniors to put on and take off. They must have a selection of clothing that is comfortable but practical, letting them get it on and off easily. Choosing clothes that have hook and loop closures can be easier to use than buttons or zippers, for instance.

Offer Gentle Reminders and Tips

Offering gentle, step-by-step guidance can sometimes be helpful. It’s important to let seniors drive that, however. When family caregivers offer help when the senior doesn’t want it, that help can be irritating and frustrating for them. Alzheimer’s care providers can help family caregivers learn more about cues to watch for that help them understand when to offer those gentle reminders and when to step back.

Helping a senior with Alzheimer’s disease get dressed may be a little more complicated than it used to be, but it’s not impossible. Alzheimer’s care providers can help families establish routines around dressing that keep seniors engaged and empowered while also getting the help they need each day.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Alzheimer’s Care Services in New Providence NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




How Home Health Care Can Help with Mobility for Seniors

Maintaining physical activity becomes more crucial for general health and well-being as the years pass by. Getting out of bed and moving about daily can have a big impact on seniors’ emotional, mental, and physical well-being. However, many seniors deal with issues that make moving around challenging. To ensure that they stay active and healthy in the comfort of their own homes, home health care services are essential in supporting and encouraging mobility.

Home Health Care Warren NJ - How Home Health Care Can Help with Mobility for Seniors

Home Health Care Warren NJ – How Home Health Care Can Help with Mobility for Seniors

The Advantages of Senior Mobility for Their Physical Well-Being

For some seniors, it might be tempting to simply lay in bed all day, especially if they struggle with physical pain. However, getting up consistently and moving throughout the day is much better for their health.

Home health care is there to encourage them to get up and get moving on those days when it might be harder than others. In doing so, seniors can enjoy the following benefits:

Better Circulation: Being physically active regularly lowers the risk of blood clots and enhances cardiovascular health in general by maintaining healthy blood flow.

Flexibility and Muscle Strength: Exercise keeps muscles strong and flexible, both of which are necessary for maintaining balance and avoiding falls.

Bone Health: By strengthening bones, weight-bearing workouts lower the incidence of fractures and osteoporosis.

Digestive Health: Exercising can help avoid constipation and other gastrointestinal problems by promoting digestion.

The Advantages of Senior Mobility for Their Mental Wellness

Just like their physical health, seniors can enjoy enhanced mental health by getting out of bed and doing their best to get around. There’s something about checking the boxes on their to-do list that gives them a sense of pride, and that sense of pride improves their moods.

Mood Enhancement: Engaging in physical exercise releases endorphins, which can elevate mood and lessen signs of anxiety and despair.

Cognitive Function: Research has demonstrated that regular exercise improves cognitive function, which may postpone the onset of dementia and other cognitive deficits.

The Advantages of Senior Mobility for Their Emotional Health

Seniors can also enjoy better emotional health if they create a routine with home health that encourages them to get out of bed and get moving. Plus, putting one foot in front of the other gives them more confidence to continue aging in place.

Sense of Independence: A senior’s self-assurance and sense of independence can increase when they can walk around on their own.

Social Interaction: Engaging in physical activity frequently leads to social interactions, which are important for mental well-being and can lessen feelings of isolation and loneliness.

How Can Home Health Care Help with Mobility?

Home health care includes a variety of services that support general health and mobility, to assist seniors in the comfort of their own homes. For instance, they can create customized exercise routines that enhance flexibility, strength, and balance.

Home health care might also work with loved ones to conduct a home assessment that ensures safety for seniors in the home. This might include suggesting modifications, such as handrails in the bathroom or extra lighting in dark hallways. In turn, these changes increase seniors’ confidence and reduce their risk of falling.

Perhaps the most important positive aspect of having home health care by their side is the support seniors receive regarding their daily living, which includes tasks like dressing, bathing, and getting from bed to a chair.

Ultimately, continued mobility is essential for seniors and home health care offers much-needed encouragement and support to help them with this.

Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/maintaining-mobility-and-preventing-disability-are-key-living-independently-we-age

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Health Care Services in Warren NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Things Your Dad Needs When He Comes Home From A Hospital Stay

If your dad is recovering from an illness or injury and he’s been in the hospital but is ready to come home there are some things that you should do to get the house ready for him. When your dad comes home things won’t go back to how they were before his hospital stay right away. Your dad will need more time to recover at home before he is able to live independently again. Depending on why your dad was in the hospital he may not be able to live on his own again without home care assistance services. If your dad has home care assistance, he should be able to continue living in the home he wants to live in because he will have the extra support and help that he needs.

To make sure that your dad has the care and support he needs to be comfortable while he recovers at home, he will need these five things after he is released from the hospital:

Medication Reminders

Home Care Assistance Somerset NJ - Things Your Dad Needs When He Comes Home From A Hospital Stay

Home Care Assistance Somerset NJ – Things Your Dad Needs When He Comes Home From A Hospital Stay

Chances are good that your dad is going to be taking a lot of new medications, especially if he was in the hospital because of a heart attack or stroke. Make sure that he has all prescribed medications, including those for managing heart health, blood pressure, cholesterol, and any other conditions.

Then make sure he has home care assistance so that he will have someone in the home with him to remind him when to take all of his medications. Your dad mustn’t miss any doses of his medication. Having a care provider that reminds him when to take his medications will help.

Healthy Meals

Your dad will need to start eating healthier meals at home. A heart-healthy diet plan rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low in saturated fats, sodium, and sugars will help your dad recover. Since your dad probably won’t be able to comfortably cook for himself it’s a good idea to have home care assistance so that someone will be there to help him cook meals.

A home care assistance provider can also do the shopping and run errands so that there will be lots of healthy and delicious food in the house for your dad to eat.

Physical Activity Plan

When your dad is released he should be given guidelines for safe physical activity, which might include gentle exercises or rehab exercises. It’s important to follow the doctor’s recommendations to ensure that the activity level is appropriate for his condition. In-home physical therapy may be recommended by the doctor.

Support System

Emotional and practical support from family, friends, or caregivers is an important part of recovery. Having someone available to assist with daily tasks, monitor his health, and provide companionship can significantly aid in his recovery. If you can’t be there around the clock to help your dad during his recovery call for more information about home care assistance.

Medical Equipment

Any necessary medical equipment, such as a blood pressure monitor, heart rate monitor, or mobility aids should be delivered to his home before he comes home from the hospital. Ensure he knows how to use these devices properly.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care Assistance Services in Somerset NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Healthy Summer Meal Ideas For Seniors

Summer is the best time of year for seniors to start a healthy diet because there is so much delicious fresh food everywhere. But, some of it can be a little difficult for seniors to cook. Seniors should have in-home care aides to make cooking healthy meals easier.

Seniors who have in-home care can enjoy the best seasonal foods in tasty meals that will make healthy eating fun. A home care provider can share meals with your mom or dad to encourage them to eat healthy summer fruits and vegetables.

Some great healthy summer meal ideas for seniors are:

Oatmeal with Fresh Berries and Nuts

In-Home Care Hunterdon NJ - Healthy Summer Meal Ideas For Seniors

In-Home Care Hunterdon NJ – Healthy Summer Meal Ideas For Seniors

Oatmeal is a healthy grain, and when it’s mixed with protein-rich milk and some fresh berries it’s the perfect breakfast. To make this dish more summer-friendly soak the oats in milk overnight in the fridge so they are cold and delicious in the morning. Then top with berries. This makes a great dessert too.

Cold Cucumber Soup

A great way to use up cucumbers before they go bad is to turn them into a chilled delicious soup. It’s also super easy to make. Just blend some peeled cucumbers with Greek yogurt, dill, lemon, and salt and pepper. When it’s pureed refrigerate until serving. That’s all there is to it. Cucumbers are naturally hydrating and filled with water. And Greek yogurt has a whopping 10 or more grams of healthy protein.

Grilled Chicken Salad

An easy healthy summer salad is a blend of mixed salad greens tossed with cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar topped with some shredded or sliced grilled chicken. This dish has it all when it comes to healthy meals because it has lean protein, healthy fat, and plenty of veggies.

Pasta Salad

Another summer classic that seniors will love is pasta salad. Just cook their favorite noodles and let them chill in the fridge. Add in some vegetables. Then, mix with a creamy dressing like ranch dressing and parmesan cheese.

Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Quinoa is a healthy grain that has both protein and complex carbohydrates. It has a rich nutty taste that is a nice change from the standard pasta or rice. It’s also very easy to make a delicious fast stir-fry using quinoa, bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

After boiling the quinoa until it’s soft put the quinoa in a wok or skillet with the stir-fried veggies and toss everything in a little low-sodium soy sauce.

Egg and Veggie Scramble

Any time of the day is a great time for scrambled eggs, and scrambled eggs are easy for seniors to eat even if they have dentures or tooth loss. Scramble some eggs in a skillet with spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese. Top with fresh herbs or with salsa.

Greek Yogurt with Fruit and Honey

A sweet but healthy cool summer treat is Greek yogurt mixed with fresh strawberries or raspberries and a little honey for sweetness. It’s cool, delicious, and healthier than ice cream.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional In-Home Care Services in Hunterdon NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




How to Promote Independence In a Senior’s Life

So many seniors choose to age in place because they do not want to lose their independence. That doesn’t mean they require no help though. Your loved one may need help from elder care providers who can help manage their household and routines, but this does not mean they will lose independence. Elder care can help encourage and promote independence allowing your seniors to thrive while they age in place.

Here are some ways the whole family can support and encourage independence when caring for a senior.

Make Their Homes Safe

Elder Care Westfield NJ - How to Promote Independence In a Seniors Life

Elder Care Westfield NJ – How to Promote Independence In a Seniors Life

One of the best things a family can do when a senior chooses to age in place is focus on the senior’s home. If a senior’s home has too many rugs, stairs, or things that can harm them it will be harder for a senior to remain at home. The best thing you can do as an adult child is go through the home and make small changes. Beds may need handrails, showers may need non-slip rugs, or they may need an armrest chair to help them get up from the chair. Whatever it is, most senior homes can have small renovations done to help promote independence and help them age in place for much longer.

Promote More Social Activities

The more social a senior is, the more they are going to want to do things on their own. Even if a senior has given up driving, this is something that elder care can help them with. If a senior is aging in place they should remain as social as possible. The more friends they have the more events they will go to and the higher quality of life they will have. Your senior loved one can remain independent and having things to do can help give them something to look forward to. Keep in mind that a senior may want to see their families more often too which is also considered a social activity! It is time to get the grandkids involved in your loved one’s life.

Make Plans With Them Not For Them

One misconception about elder care is that they will run the show for your seniors. Meaning they will make all the decisions for your loved one and the senior doesn’t get a say. This is not true. One of the main things elder care will do is talk to your senior to figure out what they want and need and adapt a routine to that. Your loved one has full control over their body, their schedule, and what happens in their daily lives. That is why elder care is a great tool for seniors who want to age in place. Elder care will always promote independence.

Encourage Physical Activity

The more active a senior is, the more likely they will be able to do things on their own, which is another great way to encourage independence. Your loved one should be focused on moving as much as possible every single day. Keep in mind their home should be set up so they can move around and do almost everything on their own. If something is not physically possible for them to do it needs to be changed so they can thrive.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Elder Care Services in Westfield NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.




Ways Home Health Care Helps Seniors Coordinate Medical Needs

Managing healthcare tasks is not easy to do, especially when there are a lot of health issues and seniors face other challenges. With the help of home health care services, it’s a lot easier and more efficient for seniors and family caregivers to manage those needs.

Home health care services do this in a variety of different ways.

Home Health Care Scotch Plains NJ - Ways Home Health Care Helps Seniors Coordinate Medical Needs

Home Health Care Scotch Plains NJ – Ways Home Health Care Helps Seniors Coordinate Medical Needs

Personalized Care Plans

Every senior has very specific and unique needs. That means that their healthcare plans need to be highly personalized to meet those needs. Experienced care providers work closely with seniors, family caregivers, and healthcare providers to put together plans that are designed to address specific medical needs. As those plans need updating and changing, it’s easy to adjust.

Assisting with Medical Appointments

Keeping up with medical appointments is a key part of helping seniors stay healthy. Home health care providers can help with transportation to medical appointments and can offer support during appointments. This reduces a lot of stress for seniors who have mobility challenges and who may not be able to drive themselves to their appointments.

Supporting Medication Management

Managing medications can be a nightmare for some seniors. Aging adults with chronic health conditions or complicated medication regimens often have a tough time taking medications when and how they should. Home health care helps seniors remember to take medications on time and assists with more complicated medication needs.

Coordinating Home Health Services

So many health services can come to seniors in their own homes. This is tremendously helpful for seniors who are homebound or who have significant difficulties getting to appointments. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other services can all visit seniors at home. The key is coordinating these visits and home health care providers can help with this.

Monitoring Conditions

Keeping track of what is going on with existing health issues keeps seniors on track with their health. Home health care providers track vital signs, monitor for changes, and offer updates for family caregivers and medical providers. Monitoring these changes and communicating what’s happening ensures that health needs get addressed proactively for seniors.

Promoting Well-being and Independence

Above all, seniors need to be able to maintain their independence as much as possible. This contributes to physical well-being, but it also encourages emotional wellness. One of the reasons seniors often insist so strongly on aging in place is because they want to remain as independent as they can. Seniors receiving help from home health care services can stay in their own homes, where they are comfortable and can avoid unnecessary hospitalizations.

Home health care services simplify medical needs for seniors, ensuring they get the support and assistance they need to stay as healthy as possible. As seniors improve their overall health and well-being, they’re better able to live their lives to the fullest, aging in place confidently. Family members also get peace of mind from this help because they know that their seniors’ healthcare needs are being met as well and as comfortably as possible.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Health Care Services in Scotch Plains NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.

Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.