Alzheimer's Nutrition Tips - (919) 338-2044 - Comfort Keepers Chapel Hill & Durham

Many seniors here in Chapel Hill or Durham are faced with a growing number of health problems as they age. One particularly concerning disease is Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is a progressive, incurable, and fatal disease that usually strikes those of older age but can occur in people as young as 40. Alzheimer's is the most common subclass of dementia, which is a term used for any number of diseases that affect memory and intellectual ability to the point of interfering with a person’s everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease in particular causes memory loss and affects the thinking and behavior of those who suffer from it.  At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we are committed to Senior Care & Elder Care in Durham & Chapel Hill, Alzheimer's and Dementia Care and your senior's healthy living and quality care. Here are a few facts about this disease...

Currently, Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5 million Americans, a number that is expected to rise to 7.1 million by 2025. There are several risk factors for this disease that the general public is aware of, including head injuries, genetics and a family history. However, one risk factor that is not discussed nearly as often is the likely link between Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disease.

The human brain is fed nutrients and oxygen by the vascular system. If the vascular system is not functioning well, the brain is also deprived of essential nutrients and oxygen, which may cause disease in the brain, including dementia. Research shows that the same risk factors for vascular disease–diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol–are also risk factors for Alzheimer’s. 

Reducing Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

While a person may not have any control over genetics or family history, he or she can take action that can reduce the risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, which includes following a brain-healthy diet. The Alzheimer’s Association defines a brain-healthy diet as “one that reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, encourages good blood flow to the brain, and is low in fat and cholesterol.” They recommend increasing the intake of foods that can protect brain cells, and list the following recommendations:  

• Cold-water fish (halibut, mackerel, salmon, trout and tuna) contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. 
• Ingest more dark-skinned vegetables and fruits, which, in general, have the highest levels of naturally occurring antioxidant levels. Examples include vegetables like kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets, red bell pepper, onion, corn, and eggplant. Examples of fruits in this category include prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, red grapes, and cherries.
• Nuts can be a healthy addition to the diet; almonds, pecans and walnuts are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant. (Alzheimer’s Association, Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet)

While studies have not pinpointed exactly how much of these brain foods are required to have a noticeable effect on a person’s risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, there is some data that shows that older women who eat primarily leafy green and cruciferous vegetables show mental functioning that is almost two years younger than their counterparts who do not eat many of these vegetables. Therefore, incorporating as many of these brain-healthy foods into the diet as possible is recommended.

Following a brain-healthy diet, along with being socially and physically active, limiting the intake of alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight, could very well mean the difference between acquiring Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia or aging gracefully.

Nutrition and the Alzheimer’s Patient

It is also very important that seniors who already have Alzheimer’s disease practice healthy nutritional habits to help them stay healthy and independent as long as possible. Foods high in sodium, refined sugar, cholesterol, and saturated fat should be greatly limited or eliminated. They should also eat a good variety of foods to make sure they are getting a broad range of essential nutrients. 

An additional problem that needs to be accounted for, however, is that Alzheimer’s patients may be faced with additional challenges that interfere with maintaining a healthy diet. As the disease progresses the person may have difficulty with dexterity and may not be able to handle cutlery and utensils easily; the person also may not recognize foods or may forget when he or she last ate. Other obstacles to eating well include 
-mouth pain due to poor-fitting dentures or other mouth problems the person is not able to communicate
-lack of exercise, which reduces the appetite
-a reduced sense of taste and smell
-medications that interfere with the appetite
-changes in perception that make it difficult for the person to distinguish food from a plate
-distractions that keep the person from eating.

To overcome these obstacles, caretakers can apply a number of approaches to ensure their loved one or client gets the nutrition he or she needs. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a number of excellent tips and strategies on their website for caretakers to use including the following:

• Distinguish food from the plate and the plate from the table by using contrasting colors for plates and placemats. This can help the food to stand out and become identifiable to someone whose perceptions are dramatically altered.
• Make sure that food and drink are at an edible or drinkable temperature to ensure the person does not burn his or her mouth. Test them yourself before giving them to the Alzheimer’s patient.
• Make eating easy by making finger foods that are easier to pick up.
• Avoid distraction and confusion by only serving a maximum of two foods at a time.
• Let the person eat according to his or her preferences. Keep these preferences in mind and serve healthy foods that the person has liked in the past so that the meal is more appetizing to him or her. If the person’s preferences suddenly change, be willing to change the foods and do not try to force him or her to eat foods he or she may no longer like.
• Allow the person as much time to eat as he or she needs. Because of limited abilities, he or she may take an hour or more to finish a meal.
• Allow the person as much independence as possible, even if he or she makes a mess, and adapt the plates, cups and utensils to accommodate his or her abilities. Bowls may be easier for the person to use than plates, and cups with suction cups on the bottom may aid in preventing spills
• Make the meals more enjoyable by joining the person at mealtime. Engage him or her in conversation to stimulate the brain and appetite. You can also show the person how to eat as necessary through demonstration.
• If the person forgets when he or she last ate and keeps requesting a meal, consider breaking up that meal into several smaller meals so the person can eat each time he or she wants to without overeating. Portion out the different foods and provide them to the person over the course of the day as he or she asks for them.

For additional tips and information, and some great caregiver guides, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website at www.alz.org.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us online.

^{References
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet. Retrieved from alz.org/we_can_help_adopt_a_brain_healthy_diet.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Alzheimer's Facts and Figures. Retrieved from alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_and_figures.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Food, Eating and Alzheimer's. Retrieved from alz.org/care/alzheimers-food-eating.asphttp://durham-832.comfortkeepers.com/}

Alzheimer’s Care in Chapel Hill and Durham – Alzheimer’s Assistance Dogs Lend a Helping Paw

By Helen Antipov

In caring for Alzheimer's patients here in Chapel Hill and Durham, we see that little things can make a big difference in patient attitude. Pet therapy has been shown to be particularly helpful to Alzheimer’s patients and those affected by other dementias. Pets, and dogs in particular, can calm those affected by dementia, help them stay active (Dogs love to walk!), and help them stay social through interactions with passersby who cannot resist these fuzzy companions. Dogs in general often provide enjoyment for those dealing with dementia, and it has been shown that dementia patients have a greater appetite following a visit from a canine companion.

The good news is there may be new promise in the area of pets helping people with dementias. Imagine dogs trained to remind a person to take medication and eat, or lead a person with dementia back home. Even more impressive, imagine these dogs could accomplish all of these tasks without receiving any type of verbal command. Does this sound farfetched (no pun intended)?

Considering the intelligence level and demeanor of certain dogs, this idea is not as crazy as it seems. In fact, today there are approximately six dogs in the world trained to do exactly these types of tasks through two projects, one based in Israel and one based in Germany, and more dogs are being trained.
Unlike traditional pet therapy, which mostly offers companionship to the Alzheimer’s patient, these two projects have undertaken training assistance dogs specifically to aid Alzheimer’s and other dementia patients with completing daily tasks, thus allowing the person to have greater independence.

This type of training is not for all dogs; it is the most demanding type of service dog training. Since their main task is to bring their human companion home when lost (or bark for help if necessary) dementia assistance dogs are specially chosen based on whether they are capable of assisting without commands and adapting what they have learned to new settings and situations. They also must be resilient enough to tolerate the frequent mood changes from which those with dementias frequently suffer.

Early pilot studies with these clever canines is promising, and the dementia patients and their families have had highly positive results. Perhaps one day in the near future, these carefully trained companions will be coming to a city near you.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and in keeping your senior healthy that can make a difference in their daily life. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

We provide elder care, senior care, in home care, Alzheimer's care and dementia care in Chapel Hill and Durham.

References
Cohen, J. (August 8, 2011). Assistance dogs: Learning new tricks for centuries. History in the Headlines. Retrieved from http://www.history.com/news/assistance-dogs-learning-new-tricks-for-centuries.
Coren, S. (January 21, 2014). Assistance dogs for Alzheimer's and dementia patients. Psychology Today. Retrieved from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/canine-corner/201401/assistance-dogs-alzheimers-and-dementia-patients.
Dementia Dog. (n.d.). Our dogs. Retrieved from http://www.dementiadog.org/
Rugg, L. C. (n.d.). Alzheimer's aid: Lassies become loyal friends. Retrieved from http://www.kingsvalleycollies.com/versatile/alzheimer-s-aid.
Shiboleth, M. (n.d.). Remember for me–The Alzheimer’s aid dogs. Retrieved from  http://www.kingsvalleycollies.com/about/alzheimers-aid-dogs.
Vann, M. (April 20, 2010). How animal therapy helps dementia patients. Everyday Health. Retrieved from http://www.everydayhealth.com/alzheimers/how-animal-therapy-helps-dementia-patients.aspx.

Alzheimer’s Care Chapel Hill and Durham: Communication Tips

By Helen Antipov

In providing Alzheimer's Care in Chapel Hill and Durham we see the most debilitative and indicative symptom of Alzheimer's disease is the gradual loss of words. Where it can be frustrating for you, realize that the Alzheimer's patients realize there is a problem, even though they may not have the capacity to understand what is happening. This can cause instances of confusion, fright and frustration for the person with Alzheimer's disease as well as for loved ones and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's.

In an effort to help those dealing with seniors with Alzheimer's, the Alzheimer's Association suggests the following tips to achieve better communication.

First, it is important to learn to recognize the changes in communication and behavior in those with Alzheimer's. Second, caregivers and family members need to learn how to assist in communication and to identify and adapt their own communication styles to those of the individual Alzheimer's sufferer.

It is important to be patient and supportive when trying to communicate. Take the time to listen with no interruptions or criticisms. Try to offer encouragement and reassurance that he or she take the time needed to try to form thoughts into proper words and try to resist correcting misused words. Many times there is meaning behind those words and if you take the time you may discover the intended meaning. Focus on the emotion that may lie within the words. Nuances in voice tone as well as hand gestures and facial expressions can all be critical in fully understanding the senior.

At times you may become angry or frustrated, yourself, but understand that criticizing or arguing only serves to increase levels of discomfort and agitation for those with Alzheimer's. Instead, practice patience and offer occasional suggestions for words they are trying to speak. When appropriate, retreat to a quiet place to communicate. Noise and crowds may intimidate the Alzheimer's patient, resulting in increased frustration and anxiety as well as decreased verbalization. Sometimes, all the person needs is a bit of quiet to organize their thoughts and correctly verbalize them.

If your senior is in late stages of Alzheimer's there are other measures you can take to improve communication efforts. Let the person know who you are to create a sense of familiarity. Use simple words and sentences and speak slowly in a lowered tone of voice. Be prepared to repeat your questions or information you are imparting, and also be prepared for those with Alzheimer's to repeat themselves. Be respectful, calm and caring in your actions and tone of voice. Using signals or written words to communicate or as reminders can be extremely helpful.

Above all, try to remain positive even in the face of this difficult condition. Alzheimer's disease is extremely trying for the patient and the caregiver, family members and friends who are dealing with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Remember, the challenges are neither your fault nor theirs. Patience, understanding and compassion on your part can mean the difference between failure and success in effective communication.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.


References
Alzheimer's Association. Communication and alzheimer's. Retrieved on November 8, 2010 from alz.org/care/dementia-communication-tips.asp.

Alzheimer’s Care Chapel Hill and Durham: Nutrition and Its Impact on Alzheimer’s Disease

By Helen Antipov

Many seniors here in Chapel Hill or Durham, are faced with a growing number of health problems as they age. One particularly concerning disease is Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is a progressive, incurable, fatal disease that usually strikes the elderly but can occur in people as young as age 40. This disease is the most common subclass of dementia, which is a term used for any number of diseases that affect memory and intellectual ability to the point of interfering with a person’s everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease in particular causes memory loss and affects the thinking and behavior of those who suffer from it.  At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we are committed to Senior Care & Elder Care in Durham & Chapel Hill, Alzheimer's and Dementia Care and your senior's healthy living and quality care. Here are some great facts...

Currently, Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5 million Americans, a number that is expected to rise to 7.1 million by 2025. There are a number of risk factors for this disease that the general public is aware of, including head injuries, genetics and a family history. However, one risk factor that does not seem to get as much media attention is the possible link between Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disease.

The human brain is fed nutrients and oxygen by the vascular system. If the vascular system is not functioning well, the brain is also deprived of essential nutrients and oxygen, which can cause disease in the brain, including dementia. Research shows that the same risk factors for vascular disease–diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol–are also risk factors for Alzheimer’s. 

Reducing Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

While a person may not have any control over genetics or family history, he or she can take action that may reduce the risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, including following a brain-healthy diet. The Alzheimer’s Association defines a brain-healthy diet as “one that reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, encourages good blood flow to the brain, and is low in fat and cholesterol.” They recommend increasing the intake of foods that can protect brain cells, and list the following recommendations on their website:  

• In general, dark-skinned fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of naturally occurring antioxidant levels. Such vegetables include kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets, red bell pepper, onion, corn, and eggplant. Fruits with high antioxidant levels include prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, red grapes, and cherries. 
• Cold-water fish (halibut, mackerel, salmon, trout and tuna) contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. 
• Some nuts can be a useful part of the diet; almonds, pecans and walnuts are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant. (Alzheimer’s Association, Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet)

While studies have not been able to definitively state exactly how much of these brain foods are required to have a noticeable affect on a person’s risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, there are some data that show that older women who eat primarily leafy green and cruciferous vegetables demonstrate mental functioning that is two years younger than their counterparts who do not eat many of these vegetables. Therefore, incorporating as many of these brain-healthy foods into the diet as possible is recommended.

Following a brain-healthy diet, along with being socially and physically active, limiting the intake of alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight, could very well mean the difference between acquiring Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia or aging gracefully.

Nutrition and the Alzheimer’s Patient

It is also vitally important that seniors who already have Alzheimer’s disease practice healthy nutritional habits to help them stay healthy and independent as long as possible. Foods high in cholesterol, saturated fat, sodium, and refined sugar should be greatly limited or eliminated. They should also eat a good variety of foods to ensure an adequate nutritional balance. 

An additional problem that needs to be accounted for, however, is that Alzheimer’s patients may be faced with additional challenges that interfere with maintaining a healthy diet. As the disease progresses the person may have difficulty with dexterity and may not be able to handle cutlery and utensils easily; the person may not recognize foods or may forget when he or she last ate. Other obstacles to eating well include mouth pain due to poor-fitting dentures or other mouth problems the person is not able to communicate; lack of exercise, which reduces the appetite; a reduced sense of taste and smell; medications that interfere with the appetite; changes in perception that make it difficult for the person to distinguish food from a plate; and distractions that keep the person from eating.

To overcome these obstacles, caretakers can apply a number of approaches to ensure their loved one or client gets the nutrition he or she needs. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a number of excellent tips and strategies on their website for caretakers to use including the following:

Distinguish food from the plate and the plate from the table by using contrasting colors for plates and placemats. This can help the food to stand out and become identifiable to someone whose perceptions are dramatically altered. 

• Make sure that food and drink are at an edible or drinkable temperature to ensure the person does not burn his or her mouth. Test them before giving them to the Alzheimer’s patient.
• Make eating easy by providing finger foods that are easy to pick up.
• Avoid distraction and confusion by only serving two foods at a time.
• Let the person eat according to his or her preferences. Keep these preferences in mind and serve foods that the person has liked in the past so that the meal is more appetizing to him or her. If the person’s preferences suddenly change, change the foods and do not try to force him or her to eat foods he or she may no longer like.
• Allow the person as much time to eat as he or she needs. Because of limited abilities, he or she may take an hour or more to finish a meal.
• Allow the person as much independence as possible, even if he or she makes a mess, and adapt the plates, cups and utensils to accommodate his or her abilities. Bowls may be easier for the person to use than plates, and cups with suction cups on the bottom may aid in preventing spills
• Make the meals pleasurable by joining the person at mealtime. Engage him or her in conversation to stimulate the brain and appetite. You can also show the person how to eat as necessary through demonstration.
• If the person forgets when he or she last ate and keeps requesting a meal, break up that meal into several little meals so the person can eat each time he or she wants to without overeating. Portion out the different foods and provide them to the person over the course of the day as he or she asks for them.

For additional tips and information, and some great caregiver guides, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website at www.alz.org.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

^{References
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet. Retrieved from alz.org/we_can_help_adopt_a_brain_healthy_diet.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Alzheimer's Facts and Figures. Retrieved from alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_and_figures.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Food, Eating and Alzheimer's. Retrieved from alz.org/care/alzheimers-food-eating.asphttp://durham-832.comfortkeepers.com/}

Alzheimer’s Care Chapel Hill and Durham: Keeping Alzheimer’s Patients Safe Room-by-Room - The Bathroom

Helen Antipov

Those with Alzheimer's here in Chapel Hill and Durham need a bit more attention when surveying their surroundings. For those caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in Chapel Hill or Durham, we offer this second part of a series in keeping your loved one with Alzheimer's safe throughout the house.  Last time we talked about The Bedroom. This time we review...

The Bathroom

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, many people can perform basic hygiene, although someone should always remain close. To help preserve your loved one’s independence as long as possible, consider installing these devices:

• Raised toilet seats
• Grab or side bars on and around the tub and toilet areas
• Non-skid mats in the tub and a safe, non-skid floor surface

Getting in and out of the tub is often quite frightening for those with Alzheimer’s, as well as their caregivers, so consider using a stool or shower chair to reduce the apprehension and fear of falling. Additional bathroom safety tips include:

• Remove items from shelving.
• Ensure the water temperature on the house meter is no higher than 120-degrees.

These are just a few things to think about as we move through the house. Join us for the third part of the series where we review The Kitchen.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

Alzheimer’s Care Chapel Hill and Durham: Keeping Alzheimer’s Patients Safe Room-by-Room - The Bedroom

Helen Antipov

Those with Alzheimer's here in Chapel Hill and Durham need a bit more attention when surveying their surroundings. It requires a delicate balance to Ensure that your senior loved one remains as self-sufficient as possible, and yet safe around the house. For those caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in Chapel Hill or Durham, that challenge increases ten-fold. Caregivers providing care for someone with Alzheimer’s must be diligent about identifying potential dangers in the home. Dangers such as throwrugs, inadequate lighting, loose baseboards and many seemingly innocent household challenges can prove to be catastrophic when caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. It may seem like a daunting task to identify all of the risks in a home and then take corrective action, but it’s easier if you address hazards room-by-room.

The Bedroom

Lighting - Lighting becomes one of the most common hazards. Low and soft lighting, although good for comfort can create shadows that hide things that could create unsafe situations, Invest in nightlights and distribute throughout the room to make sure any potential dangers are lit.

Slippers - be sure these are placed in a way that they don't become tripping hazards when getting out of bed.

Clothing - Loose clothing that a foot can get caught in is the danger here. Be sure that bed clothes fit well and don't create a hazard.

Clutter - a danger throughout the home, but again, with softer lighting, it can create a real danger for nighttime bathroom visits. 

Communication - create some kind of connection through the night with either an intercom or a bell. A repurposed baby monitor can be helpful here.

A few minor adjustments can help reduce the dangers of a bedroom for your loved one with Alzheimer’s!

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

Next Room: The Bathroom

^{REFERENCES
store.best-alzheimers-products.comThe Alzheimer’s Family Center Inc.The editors of agingcare.comThe editors of helpforalzheimersfamilies.com e-Learning Course, Class 5: safetyMayoClinic.comThe MedicAlert Foundation“A Guide to Safe Guarding Your Home For Alzheimer’s Patients,” by Carole B. Larkin for AlzheimersReadingRoom.com}

Alzheimer's Care in Chapel Hill and Durham: Anger and Aggression

Helen Antipov

Those with Alzheimer's here in Chapel Hill and Durham can start to show signs of anger and aggression. Those behaviors can be verbal or physical. Often they occur suddenly, with no apparent reason, or result from a frustrating situation. While aggression can be hard to cope with, understanding that the person with Alzheimer's or dementia is not acting this way on purpose can help.

Here is some information from ALZ.org.

Causes

Aggression can be caused by many factors including physical discomfort, environmental factors and poor communication. If the person with Alzheimer's is aggressive, consider what might be contributing to the change in behavior.

The main cause of behavioral symptoms associated with dementia is the progressive deterioration of brain cells, but other factors — such as pain — also can cause symptoms or make symptoms worse.

Physical discomfort

• Is the person able to let you know that he or she is experiencing physical pain? It is not uncommon for persons with Alzheimer's or other dementias to have urinary tract or other infections. Due to their loss of cognitive function, they are unable to articulate or identify the cause of physical discomfort and, therefore, may express it through physical aggression.
• Is the person tired because of inadequate rest or sleep?
• Are medications causing side effects? Side effects are especially likely to occur when individuals are taking multiple medications for several health conditions?

Treating Behavioral Symptoms

Anyone experiencing behavioral symptoms should receive a thorough medical checkup, especially when symptoms appear suddenly. Treatment depends on a careful diagnosis, determining possible causes and the types of behavior the person is experiencing.


Sudden change in behavior? UTI could be the cause.
 UTIs, or urinary tract infections, can cause changes in someone with Alzheimer's disease that you might never expect. The impact can be really profound. 

• Is the person overstimulated by loud noises, an overactive environment or physical clutter? Large crowds or being surrounded by unfamiliar people — even within one's own home — can be over-stimulating for a person with dementia.
• Does the person feel lost?
• Most people function better during a certain time of day; typically mornings are best. Consider the time of day when making appointments or scheduling activities. Choose a time when you know the person is most alert and best able to process new information or surroundings.

Poor communication

• Are your instructions simple and easy to understand?
• Are you asking too many questions or making too many statements at once?
• Is the person picking up on your own stress or irritability?

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that caregivers go through. We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and Alzheimer's. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us at online.

Read more: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-aggression-anger.asp#ixzz2obOym7MZ

Dementia Care for Chapel Hill and Durham: A Way to Help the Entire Family

By Helen Antipov

For many families here in Chapel Hill and Durham, it is a privilege and joy to be able to provide dementia care and other Alzheimer’s care for their senior loved-ones. This gives the family the opportunity to spend time together. However, taking care of seniors with dementia can be draining on the entire family because of the constant care and attention that is required for this specific care.
Comfort Keepers®, the professional and compassionate in-home senior care service provider, is proud to offer dementia care for seniors. Caregivers, the friendly and professional Comfort Keepers, are highly and specifically trained to provide care for seniors with dementia.

For every senior, Comfort Keepers prepares a customized care service package that details exactly what care each senior requires and describes exactly what services Comfort Keepers will provide. Caregivers can provide a variety of services: ranging from weekly visits of 2 hours to 24 hour in-home care live-in service. Comfort Keepers works to make sure every senior is safe and sound as they live independently in their own home.

Caregivers Work to Consciously and Compassionately Improve the Quality of Life that Each Senior Experiences
In order to provide the highest quality dementia care to seniors, caregivers are specially trained to engage seniors in what Comfort Keepers calls Interactive Caregiving®. This is a conscious effort to engage seniors in activities that helps keep their minds and bodies active. It is proven that seniors who feel involved and engaged have a higher quality of life, and this is what Comfort Keepers caregivers strive for. Interactive Caregivers spend time with seniors in the following ways:
• Sharing hobbies
• Listening to music and sometimes dancing
• Walking around the neighborhood
• Browsing through family photo albums
• Putting puzzles together or working on crafts
• Working together on projects around the house
• And many more!
Each of these activities is designed to help seniors improve their quality of life.

Dementia Care Technology to Provide Safety
While Comfort Keepers caregivers can provide 24 hour live-in dementia care, if this is not the service package that the family chooses, there could be times when the senior is at home alone. Comfort Keepers offers several technology solutions to give families peace of mind. If a senior with dementia has a likelihood of wandering and becoming lost, they can be equipped with Comfort Keepers GPS-PERS System technology. This allows the family to track the real-time location of their senior loved-one. If the senior ever wanders and becomes lost, he or she can press the button on their PERS System and instantly be connected with a Comfort Keepers professional response operator who can dispatch emergency assistance.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that you and your family go through in this season.  We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and senior and eldercare issues here in Durham and Chapel Hill. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us online.

Senior Care & Elder Care in Durham & Chapel Hill: Join a Senior Center to Improve Health

By Helen Antipov

With senior care and elder care, a consideration is that senior adults are more active than ever. A higher level of health care has led to treatments that help older adults stay healthier and more active as they age. However, because senior adults often look and feel younger, they might miss out on the benefits of friendship, support, education and recreation that a senior center provides.

Maybe your loved one says, ‘I don’t know where there is a senior center in Chapel Hill. I don’t feel old. I don’t know anyone in Durham so I don't want to sit around talking with people I don't know.’

But, many people are questioning the name ‘Senior Center’ because studies show all types of people, including those who are healthy and active, find senior centers in their communities a great resource for a myriad of things. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 11,400 senior centers in the country serve more than one million adults. About 75 percent visit a senior center one to three times per week, and stay an average of 3.3 hours per visit. At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we can help you find the right senior center and can help get your senior to activities that match what they need and like. 

If you don’t feel old enough to join a senior center, consider these facts, also reported by the NCOA:

• Older adults who utilize senior centers learn to manage and/or delay the onset of chronic disease and experience significant improvements to their physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental—and even economic—well being.
• A study of nearly 900 people indicated that those seniors who are around 80 years old lived longer if they stayed active. Additionally, it’s been shown that those older adults who are more active are less likely to have memory problems or need a nursing home. This same study debunked the myths that say senior adults aren’t able to learn new things, like a new form of exercise or a hobby, and also that memory loss and a significant decrease in physical aptitude is inevitable.
• Today’s senior centers are expanding their programming and base of participants, especially as the baby boomer population grows.

Senior Centers offer newer types of programming
Now that senior adults are living longer and staying active into their 80s and even 90s, senior centers now offer a newer variety of programming. With more and more studies showing that active minds help delay Alzheimer's symptoms, a senior center in Chapel Hill and Durham can help those that may be facing symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's.

Fitness Programs. Many senior centers offer not only exercise programs designed for older adults, but they also have equipment onsite for members to use.

Job Placement Services. More and more people are enjoying their careers—or a new line of work—well past age 65. Some senior centers offer help and resources for seniors who are looking for work.

Travel Programs. Some senior centers sponsor trips for members that can be one-day or up to a weeklong venture. These programs often include advance planning of the trip, transportation, stops, meals and sleeping arrangements. So all you or your loved has to do is pack!

Lifelong Education. The older adult years are a great time to pursue hobbies you or your loved one never had time for during the busy work and child-rearing years. These can include painting, photography, music, dancing, computer skills and writing. 

Joint Programming with Child and Teen Groups. Seniors and teens can learn a lot from each other. The same is true for younger children. Some senior centers are offering the chance to bring other groups into their facility for special programming.

Gardening Opportunities. Maybe you’ve downsized and don’t have the room to garden like you used to. Or maybe you never had time to learn about growing a variety of plants and flowers. Many senior centers have gardens right onsite that members tend to.

Getting on after loss
If you’ve lost someone close to you, like a spouse or treasured friend, it’s likely you want to stay home. But as you’re going through the stages of grief, it’s often the best time to reach out to others at a senior center, especially because they’ve likely gone through—or are going through—the same tough time.

Even if you have been around many of the same people your whole adult life, experts on coping with loss think it’s never too late to meet new friends. If you’re not sure where to turn, a senior center, and its participants and staff will welcome you in. Getting involved in activities you are passionate about is another way to cope with the loss you or your loved one faces in life’s later years.

How do I find a good senior center?
Like other services, talking to friends is a good way to find out more about a senior center in your locale. You’re likely to find out about them in advertisements, newspapers and TV. Many senior centers are accredited by the Better Business Bureau and you can find out which ones carry that designation. Also look for senior centers who are accredited by the NCOA, although it they aren’t, it doesn’t mean they aren’t a good choice.

At Comfort Keepers of Durham and Chapel Hill, we understand the stress that you and your family go through in this transition.  We are here to help you and give you the support you need when dealing with a loved one and senior and eldercare issues. Call us at 919-338-2044 or visit us online.

References

‘The Perks of Growing Older,’ by Krisha McCoy, MS and Christine Wilmsen Craig, MD for Everyday Health
‘Return to social life can be fulfilling for suddenly single seniors,’ by the editors of www.4elders.org.
‘Senior Tips for Great Senior Center Activities,’ by Norma Bean for Yahoo Voices
www.bbb.org 
‘Staying Healthy Over 50: How to Feel young and Live Life to the Fullest,’ by the editors of www.helpguide.com 
www.ncoa.org

Senior Care and Elder Care in Durham and Chapel Hill: Signs of Fraud Against Seniors.

By Helen Antipov

Dealing with Senior Care and Elder Care in Durham and Chapel Hill and issues of fraud. According to the FTC, nearly 25 million Americans are victims of consumer fraud each year. Seniors continue to be a rapidly increasing segment of the population targeted by con artists. In fact, financial scams targeting seniors have become so prevalent that they are now considered to be “the crime of the 21st century.” And this crime against seniors is not always one that is perpetrated by strangers. Over 90% of all reported abuse of seniors is committed by someone in their own family. Shockingly, financial abuse such as depleting joint checking accounts, promising but not delivering care in exchange for money or property, and even outright theft is most often committed by the senior’s own adult children, followed by grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and others. And it’s not just wealthy seniors who are at risk. Low income older adults are commonly targeted as well.

As a caregiver, how do you protect your senior loved one from falling victim to scams? Protecting your senior comes down to four key actions: being aware, being careful, doing your homework, and asking for help if you find that your senior has been the victim of a financial crisis. Here are the ten most popular scams targeting seniors according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA) followed by some practical but important ways to protect him or her, and also next steps to take if you discover that fraud has occurred.

The top ten scams targeting seniors include:

• Health Care/Medicare/Health Insurance fraud. There are endless varieties of this scam aimed at getting the personal information of seniors by scam artists who promise bogus services for elderly people and then use the information to bill Medicare and the n pocket the money.
• Counterfeit Prescription Drugs. This is most often perpetrated via the internet when seniors search for better prices on specialized medications. Not only is there danger of paying for meds that will not help the senior’s medical condition, but victims may purchase unsafe substances that can cause harm.
• Funeral and Cemetery Scams. Scammers read the obituaries and take advantage of the grieving widow or widower by claiming the deceased owes an outstanding debt, and then extorts money to settle the false claim. Another scam perpetuated by disreputable funeral homes preys on the unfamiliarity of family members with the considerable costs of services by adding unnecessary charges to the bill.
• Fraudulent Anti-Aging Products. There is big money in the anti-aging business and many older people seek new treatments and medications to remain looking youthful. Scammers sell senior bogus homeopathic remedies that do nothing.
• Telemarketing. Scammers commonly use fake telemarketing calls to prey on older people. Seniors make twice as many purchases by phone than the national average. With no paper trail or face-to-face interaction, these scams are incredibly difficult to trace. To add insult to injury, once a successful deal has been made, the buyer’s name is shared with other scammers who are on the prowl for easy marks.
• Internet Fraud. Seniors who are not computer savvy can be easy prey for scams that cause computer viruses that open information on the user’s computer to scammers.
• Investment schemes. Because many seniors find themselves planning for retirement and managing their savings after retirement, investment schemes have long been a successful way to take advantage of seniors. They can range everywhere from pyramid schemes like the one that Bernie Madoff perpetrated, to complex financial products that many economists don’t even understand.
• Homeowner/Reverse Mortgages. The reverse mortgage has mushroomed in recent years. Unsecured reverse mortgages can lead property owners to lose their homes when perpetrators offer money or a free house somewhere else in exchange for the title to the property.
• Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams. Here scammers inform their mark that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes and need to make some kind of payment to unlock the prize. Often, this scam involves having the senior deposit the fake prize check into their bank account. The prize amount shows up in their account immediately and takes a few days before it is rejected. In the meantime, the scammers collect money for supposed taxes or fees on the prize as the victim has the ‘prize money’ removed from their account as the check bounces.
• The Grandparent Scam. This simple scam involves a call to an older person by an imposter grandchild who asks for money to resolve an unexpected financial problem. The money is usually paid to Western Union or MoneyGram which don’t always require identification to collect.

You can help protect your senior and reduce their risk of financial abuse by making him or her aware of the risk of elder financial abuse. Avoiding isolation by staying involved with friends, family, and community activities throughout their lives is likewise helpful. Seniors should also include safeguards in their durable powers of attorney to help prevent those being misused by their agent is another way to secure his or her assets. Refusing to engage with anyone who calls or comes to the door selling anything or looking for donations is another good practice. Using direct deposit for checks will ensure that they go right into their accounts and are protected. And finally, never giving credit card, banking, Social Security, Medicare or other personal information out over the phone unless he or she initiates the call is a good way to maintain the integrity of this very private information.

If your senior falls victim to fraud, immediately call his or her bank and/or credit company, cancel any debit or credit cards linked to the stolen account, and reset the personal identification number(s). There is help for suspected elder abuse as well. Every state operates an Adult Protect Services (APS) program, the ‘911’ for elder abuse. If you suspect elder abuse, neglect or exploitation, call the Eldercare Locator toll free at (800) 677-1116 to find your local offices.

^{References “Senior Fraud: A campaign aimed at older Americans to keep them from becoming victims of fraud and identity theft,.” National Crime Prevention Council, www.ncpc.org/newsroom/current-campaigns/senior-fraud.
 “Savvy Saving Seniors®,” National Council on Aging, www.ncoa.org
“Top 10 Scams Targeting Seniors,” National Council on Aging, www.ncoa.org}