When a parent’s health is declining, finding ways to keep them happy and safe is essential. But that’s not always easy to do. If you are working or raising a family of your own, it can be even more challenging.

Hiring an in-home caregiver is an option that adult children often say is life-changing for them and their senior loved one. While you may still be the primary caregiver, you will now have help and support—and the time you need for your job, family, and home.

If you’ve never managed an in-home caregiver before, you may be wondering how to handle it. We have some tips we think you will find helpful.

Finding and Retaining a Quality In-Home Caregiver

The best managers know that a positive work environment encourages good communication, productivity, and efficiency. Employees are more satisfied and, in turn, become more engaged with their work.

The same goes for managing an in-home caregiver:

Get to know the person you’ve hired and their communication style.

Let the caregiver know you value their opinion and expertise.

Schedule regular check-ins to see how things are going, either in person or via a video chat platform.

Tip #2: Build trust but establish boundaries

Trust begins by building a foundation of communication and respect. That paves the way for the collaborative relationship caregivers and adult children need. Remember to maintain transparency in communications and play fair at all times. Be honest and open, and encourage the caregiver to be, too.

At the same time, establish clear boundaries. It’s important that the caregiver understands exactly what’s expected of them. For example, should the caregiver be doing dishes? Getting the mail? Helping with the laundry? Create a detailed list that you review together on a regular basis. It’s usually a good idea to spell out the terms in a written contract that you both sign.

There are a variety of tech products that make the role of caregiver easier and less stressful. Some that you and the caregiver you’ve hired might find helpful include:

A GPS tracking device, whether it’s a watch or a GPS SmartSole

Video chat platforms, such as Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime

An online health information organizing system, such as CareZone, to track medical history, medications, and more

An electronic pill dispenser, like MedMinder, that works off of wireless technology

Each of these can supplement the one-on-one support provided by the caregiver and family members.

Tip #4: Demonstrate support for the caregiver

You’ve hired a caregiver to come into your parent’s home. Now you need to keep them motivated to provide the best care possible. It will likely help if they know you care about their well-being, too. Ask about the caregiver’s family. Give them a day off on their birthday. Let them know you are willing to do whatever you reasonably can to make the caregiver role a good experience.

Follow Our Blog for More Caregiver Resources

If you are looking to stay on top of the latest news on healthy aging, caregiving, and senior care, we encourage you to visit our blog often. We update it weekly with topics ranging from senior nutrition and summer hydration to articles like Advice for Worry-Free Long-Distance Caregiving.

Are you looking for advice on managing a parent’s in-home caregiver? Here are a few tips, from building trust to utilizing technology.

How to Manage a Parent’s In-Home Caregiver

If you or someone you live with has a snoring problem, it may be causing more harm than you think. While most of us associate loud snoring with sleepless nights for the rest of the family, studies show a dangerous link between snoring, sleep apnea, heart disease, and stroke.

Let’s begin by discussing what sleep apnea is and how many people suffer from it. Then we’ll talk about how it’s diagnosed and treated.

Here’s a quick overview of what we know about sleep apnea:

Sleep apnea is a disorder that affects as many as one in five Americans.

It occurs when there is a “pause” in the sleeper’s breathing. It may happen from 5 to 30 times per hour. The person wakes up gasping for air. Oftentimes they don’t realize what is happening.

This condition prevents restful sleep from occurring. Those living with sleep apnea wake up feeling tired.

The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea. It is generally believed to be caused by obesity.

Sleep apnea is a proven cause of hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure. Hypertension is a leading cause of heart disease and strokes.

If you or a loved one doesn’t seem able to get a refreshing night’s sleep, the first step in getting a diagnosis is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. They will likely conduct a physical exam to see if an undiagnosed health condition is the underlying cause. Sleep apnea will probably be considered, and the doctor may order a sleep study.

These tests are usually conducted overnight in a sleep center or sleep testing facility. Some insurance policies also cover home sleep studies with special equipment. If your doctor orders this test, good information to review is Sleep Study (Polysomnography) from Cleveland Clinic.

There are a variety of methods used to treat sleep apnea, depending on how severe it is. One of the leading ways is to lose weight. Roughly 70% of people who have sleep apnea are obese.

Other methods include nasal decongestants and surgery. An oral appliance that looks like a mouth guard is effective for some types of sleep apnea. And one of the more common methods of treatment is using a continuous positive airway pressure device, also known as a CPAP, at night.

A CPAP machine has a mask that is worn over the nose during sleep. It keeps airflow going continuously or intermittently to keep the sleeper’s airways from collapsing.

The bottom line on sleep apnea is that it is usually treated quite easily. And results are almost immediate. Blood pressure begins coming down right from the time treatment starts. That helps to lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. And if you’re wondering what else you can do to protect your cardiovascular health, 8 Ways to Live a Heart-Smart Lifestyle will be of interest.

Sleep apnea is an underdiagnosed issue that affects one in five Americans. It causes a pause in breathing during sleep that can be deadly. Learn more here.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families turned to technology for support with daily tasks and necessities. From online grocery shopping to virtual physician appointments, tech products made social distancing easier to manage. Even people who were previously reluctant to embrace devices and apps started using platforms like Zoom and Skype to stay connected with loved ones.

While the country has largely returned to normal, technology to make life easier continues to evolve. If you are a senior, or the adult child of one, who is exploring ways to simplify everyday tasks, we have a few suggestions for you to consider.

Smartwatch: Many people are surprised to discover how useful smartwatches can be. While most can send/receive texts and make phone calls, some offer many more features. Users can track their activity level, sleep quality, heart rate, and blood pressure. Those health features provide safety benefits that bring peace of mind to older adults and their families. Some smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, have built in GPS tracking too.

Travel apps: Older people who like to travel might find it helpful to utilize a travel app for planning. For example, the free version of TripIt allows you to plan and save every detail of your trip, including confirmation emails, on your itinerary. Another handy feature is the ability to share travel plans with loved ones who aren’t traveling with you. That makes it easier for adult children to check in on a traveling senior throughout their journey.

Home cameras: Safety is a leading concern for older adults, especially those who live alone. Seniors can be targets for a variety of crimes, ranging from home improvement scams to burglary. Fortunately, there are different types of video cameras that can alert homeowners when someone is outside their house. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. CNET offers a guide, Best Home Security System of 2023, that can help you find one that meets your needs.

Echo Dot: This popular Amazon device continues to improve. One of its most useful features is Alexa, a voice-controlled assistant. A senior can use an Echo Dot to ask Alexa to turn lights on and off, lock doors, add to the grocery list, play music, and even call for help in case of an emergency.

GrandPad: This device brings together the benefits of a laptop and a cell phone and incorporates them into an easy-to-use tablet for seniors. GrandPad allows the user to make and receive video calls, explore the internet, check and send email, play games, and more. It’s a great way to stay connected with friends and family and the community.

MedMinder medication management: These smart medication-disbursing devices alert a senior when it’s time for a dose. You can even utilize MedMinder’s pharmacy services to preload the unit. Since mistakes with medicines are a leading reason older people end up in hospital emergency rooms, this tech product can be a good investment.

Mobile monitoring device: Another good safety product is the Life Protect 24/7 mobile monitoring unit. With a press of a button on this discreet device, the wearer can be quickly connected with someone who can provide assistance. Whether it’s for a medical crisis or another emergency, being able to summon help is invaluable. And it works off wireless technology so it can be used from almost anywhere.

If you would like the peace of mind that comes from a mobile monitoring unit for yourself or a senior loved one, one of our experienced team members can help. Call 1-844-203-5617 to speak with someone today!

Looking for tech products to help you or a senior loved one stay independent? This article will be of interest.

Tech Devices and Apps to Support Senior Independence

If you are newly retired or planning for your retirement, figuring out where to live might be one item on your to-do list. You’ll want to contemplate not only what type of housing is a good fit, such as a condominium or a senior living community, but also which part of the country best meets your needs.

Older adults who want to live an active and independent retirement have a variety of factors to consider, from weather and cost of living to easy access to health care. Let’s take a look at what experts say are good cities and states for people to move to after they retire.

Ideas for Where to Live During Retirement

Among the states gaining in popularity with retirees are two you might not have thought of before: Michigan and North Carolina. While they are different from one another geographically and in terms of weather, both share some similarities. Both are home to a wide range of age groups, strong health care institutions, and a multitude of activities to enjoy, as well as a variety of senior living communities.

Within these states, cities that often win awards for best places for retirees to live include:

If low cost of living is your primary concern in deciding where to retire, financial experts say these locations, in no particular order, might be of interest:

For older adults with a chronic medical condition or those whose leading priority is access to quality health care, some states rank much better than others. According to CNBC, the top 10 states for health care and overall wellness are:

Equally important, if health care tops your list of retirement considerations, are the states that rank worst:

Finally, it might be worth noting the states people are exiting upon retirement. Those include Oregon—the state with the highest percentage of retirees who are leaving—followed by Maryland, Idaho, Texas, and Virginia.

If you’re considering retiring to one of these states, it may be worth digging a little deeper into why people are leaving. Some of their reasons for leaving may not be important to you, while others may be among your top priorities for retirement. Either way, it’s a good idea to investigate further if one of these states is on your list.

With new articles published weekly on intergenerational topics ranging from healthy aging to caregiving, the Life Protect 24/7 blog is a good one to follow. Bookmark this page and stop back often!

Are you planning for your retirement or newly retired? This information can help you decide where to call home.

Best Cities and States for Seniors to Live During Retirement

With so much attention focused on COVID-19 over the past few years, it’s been easy to overlook another unwelcome visitor that makes its return every fall: the influenza virus. Many people think the flu is nothing more than a few days of not feeling well. In reality, it can be much more serious for seniors.

The flu and its related complications, such as pneumonia or myocarditis, put seniors at risk. Older adults account for as much as 85% of flu-related deaths and up to 70% of hospitalizations.

One method of prevention many of us are familiar with is the annual influenza vaccine. Considered the gold standard for avoiding the flu bug, it’s usually available at your primary care doctor’s office or a local pharmacy. Medicare and most types of health insurance cover the cost.

But the flu shot isn’t the only step you can take to minimize the risk of catching the virus during flu season. There are lifestyle choices that also play a role in avoiding influenza.

Avoid crowds and close contact: One way the flu virus is passed is through personal contact (e.g., a hug or handshake) or by being in close proximity to someone who is sick, even if they don’t yet have symptoms. As we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing helps lower person-to-person transmission of viruses. While it isn’t always possible, social distancing during the height of flu season is an effective prevention measure.

Wear a face mask: Masks are another effective way to limit your exposure. When the flu is spreading in your area, consider wearing a mask when you go grocery shopping or to an appointment.

Take care of yourself: Keeping your immune system strong also helps to lower the risk you’ll catch the flu. A well-balanced diet combined with exercise, good hydration, and quality sleep are key.

Wash your hands often: Good hand-washing hygiene is essential any time of year, but especially during flu season. Research shows the flu virus can live on hard surfaces for 24 to 48 hours. That means touching door handles, shopping carts, counters, and more may bring you in contact with the virus. For those times you can’t wash your hands, keep a bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your purse or pocket.

Avoid touching your face: Have you ever noticed how many times a day you touch your face? It might be to rub tired eyes, scratch an itchy nose, or push the hair back off your face. Researchers say you probably touch your face as often as 16 times an hour! If you have the influenza virus on your hands, that increases the likelihood you will get sick.

Despite your best efforts at prevention, you may develop signs of the flu when the virus is making its rounds. Though no medications can cure it, some prescription antiviral drugs can lessen the severity of symptoms and shorten the length of time you are sick. But to be effective, they need to be taken in the earliest stages of the disease. So don’t delay in calling your primary care physician if you feel yourself coming down with the flu.

Mobile Monitoring Units Offer Peace of Mind

If you or a senior loved one lives or travels alone, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might offer you peace of mind. In the event of an emergency, the simple press of a button on this discreet device can connect the user with someone who can help. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Wondering what you can do to protect yourself or a senior loved one during flu season? These prevention steps may be of interest.

How to Shoo the Flu During Influenza Season

The loss of a spouse or partner is devastating at any age. Whether it was a sudden passing or an expected one, accepting that someone you love is gone is painful. And finding your way alone can be difficult. While time does help, most people experience a roller coaster of emotions for months or even years to come. You might start to find your new normal for a few weeks and then be overwhelmed by grief again.

Bereavement counselors usually stay in touch with spouses and families for at least 12 or 13 months after a loss. That’s because each of the milestones you encounter during that first year can be so difficult. The date of a partner’s birthday or your anniversary can be an emotional time. The same is true for the first Christmas or Hanukkah alone.

What can you do when your grief feels unbearable?

First, be kind to yourself. Grieving takes as long as it takes. Don’t beat yourself up for not moving on as quickly as you think you should. While everyone processes grief differently and in their own time, there are steps you can take that might help you feel better along the way.

Navigating Grief After the Loss of a Loved One

Talk about it: Friends and family may be hesitant to discuss your lost loved one out of fear they will upset you. If you initiate the conversation, however, you’ll probably find that people are eager to share their memories and support you through this difficult time. Reminiscing can be tearful, but it can also be healing.

Join a support group: Another idea is to connect with peers who’ve also experienced a loss. You can do that by joining an online or in-person support group. Most hospice agencies welcome family members, even those who didn’t utilize their services. Some people prefer an online grief support group or forum because the anonymity helps them be more open and honest about their emotions. Grieving.com and GriefShare are two online groups to consider.

Take care of you: Loved ones often develop unhealthy lifestyles when they are busy caring for their family member. The physical demands of caregiving and the associated stress can leave you feeling exhausted. After a loved one’s passing, it’s important to get your own health on track. Quality sleep, a nutritious diet, and regular exercise will help you begin to feel better physically and emotionally.

Don’t isolate yourself: While it’s okay to give yourself some alone time to process your loss, try not to isolate from friends and family completely. That can worsen your despair. At first, meeting one-on-one or in small groups might be easier. Try going out to lunch or doing a little shopping with those closest to you. Another option could be to take an art class with a friend or two. When you are grieving, expressing yourself creatively can help the healing process. 

Try volunteering: Spending time helping others may be another way to find joy and purpose in life again. If you aren’t already involved with a charity, think about what you’ve always enjoyed. If you love gardening or working with children or with animals, for example, connecting with an organization devoted to that cause can give your spirit a boost. If you need ideas for an organization to support, call your local United Way office or find one online using VolunteerMatch.

Our final suggestion is to seek professional help if it feels like your grief isn’t improving or is worsening. You could start with your primary care doctor, who may refer you to a mental health professional. Don’t be embarrassed to admit that you need help. The loss of a partner or spouse is significant and difficult for most people to cope with.

We cover a variety of topics, from healthy living to caring for a senior loved one, on the Life Protect 24/7 Blog. We encourage you to bookmark this space and stop back often!

Grieving a partner or spouse is difficult. These tips for coping with loss might help.

Coping With the Loss of a Spouse or Partner