Caregiving 101

05/28/2022

Thank you American Airlines for donating 32,000 Hygiene & Amenities Kits to our Coalition of Good to help the Ukrainian refugees.

04/22/2022

04/10/2022

Thank you to everyone who has donated so far. Many good people joining our Coalition to help Ukrainian Refugees.

www.coalitionofgood.org

04/02/2022

11/24/2020

What You Need to Know About Arthritis Pain

Arthritis pain is commonly experienced by elderly individuals and even younger individuals. Arthritis pain is commonly referred to as a swelling and inflammation in the joints. It will cause intense pain in the joints, but the problem is there is no way to cure arthritis pain, but you can manage the pain.

If you aren’t sure if you have arthritis pain or not, here are a few of the common symptoms that can cause pain and swelling in the joints:

• Stiffness in the joints
• Pain and swelling in the joints
• Limited mobility in areas like the shoulders, knees, and hands
• Numbness in the fingers, legs, and toes
• Throbbing in the hips

When do you experience the pain in the joints? Is it in the morning, daytime, or evening? For some individuals that arthritis pain is worse in the mornings but it doesn’t cause them to have problems with their day-to-day activities. Other people experience constant pain and suffering no matter what they do while there are some that experience the pain at night. There are several different types of arthritis and each one has different symptoms:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Juvenile arthritis
• Septic arthritis

If you are suffering from arthritis pain, you don’t have to live with it forever. You need to search for different ways to manage your symptoms and overcome the pain. There are also products which can make certain tasks a little easier.

− Bottle Openers: this line of products allows you to open your pill bottles and other things without the pain of pressing down and twisting, which can hurt the wrists, fingers, and joints.

− Dressing Sticks: Dressing sticks will make it easier for you to get dressed. You don’t have to bend over and pull up your socks or stretch in awkward positions to get your clothes on.

− Reachers/Grabbers: Reacher will help you reach for objects that are high up or it can help you grasp objects. It helps to relieve strain on the muscles that are caused when you are reaching and stretching them too far.

- Thermal therapy aids: These products provide you with hot and cold therapy to reduce the swelling, inflammation, and pain on the joints. Some can be worn in public and they are easy to attach using the Velcro straps.

Being a caregiver for a loved one, can be difficult and overwhelming. There are tips, tricks, products, and suggestions offered by Caregiving 101 and many others. Please check back often to this page for additional information or check of this Caregiving 101 Book
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285225/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i16

11/23/2020

Caring for your loved one in a wheelchair

Helping someone in your life deal with their health issues and using a wheelchair, can be difficult, but with the right resources, and knowledge, you can help your loved one live as full a life as possible.

Here are some basics you should know about caring for a senior who uses a wheelchair for mobility assistance:

• Size of the wheelchair needs to be right - Selecting a wheel chair for someone who must now use it for the majority of their waking hours, is an important decision. A wheelchair needs to be sized correctly for the user. If the wheelchair is too small, the occupant will be uncomfortable, and unable to use it. If the wheelchair is too big, then mobility for both the user, and the caregiver, becomes a challenge. In addition, the overall weight of the wheelchair should be factored in. There are many lightweight wheelchairs, that allow the user to move about freer and allow the caregiver, to stow the wheelchair in the trunk of a car, or other space. Take the time to research properly before you purchase a wheelchair so it is the right fit from the beginning.

• Comfort is of paramount importance-It is critical to realize that being in a wheel-chair is not like sitting in a regular chair. There are a number of comfort factors that should be taken into account. Several of these factors can be resolved with the use of wheelchair accessories which include but are not limited to:

- A footrest extension can reduce fatigue, relieve leg strain and stress on the back and feet of the user. Using a footrest extension also promotes circulation in the legs and feet. In addition, it also promotes proper posture, and comfortable seating.

- A padded lap tray. This type of wheelchair accessory is especially important for those at high risk for pressure sores. A lap tray can act as an elbow rest and help prevent forward leaning. This type of wheelchair accessory also provides extra support, and comfort, for those at risk for skin breakdown. This type of tray easily hooks onto the side of the wheelchair.

- A seat pad. An important accessory for both comfort and cleanliness. Wheelchair seat pads can provide extra comfort, to make the seat easier to sit in and can help deal with any incontinence issues. Most of these pads are washable and re-useable.

• Functionality should be considered-Just because a senior uses a wheelchair, does not mean that they should not have access to things that they want to do. Carriers can be attached to the side of the wheelchair to allow the your loved one to carry books and other items with them. These carriers can also be used to store phones, remotes and security devices. Trays can also be attached that allow someone to comfortably eat a meal, while sitting in their chair, without the hassles of transferring.

Being a caregiver can be difficult and overwhelming. However, there are tips and resources from Caregiving 101 and others which can help make things a little easier. Please check back for more during our regular weekly posts.

11/17/2020

Frontotemporal Dementia - When Communicating with your Loved One is Threatened by FTD

To be an effective communicator, we must begin by accepting that the key to effective communication is the ability to listen attentively. As a caregiver, you must use techniques that provide an open nonthreatening environment for your loved one. Your listening behavior can either enhance and encourage communication or shut down communication altogether.

Communication is the Second Pillar of Activities and Engagement. The ability to listen effectively is the foundation of that pillar.
When we talk about communication, there are two types: Verbal communication and Nonverbal communication. Although it may seem that most communication happens verbally, research has shown that most communication occurs nonverbally. Nonverbal communication occurs through an individual’s body language.

There are five key elements to consider when communicating nonverbally with your loved one who has dementia:

• Facial Expressions — Be aware of what your facial expressions are conveying to your loved one.

• Eye Contact — Ensure that you have made eye contact with your loved one and that their attention is focused on you and what you are saying. Always approach your loved one from the front, and be at eye level when speaking to them.

• Gestures and Touch — Calmly use nonverbal signs such as pointing, waving, and other gestures in combination with your words. Give nonverbal praises such as smiles and head nods when appropriate.

• Tone of Voice — The inflection in your voice helps your loved one relate to what you are saying.

• Body Language — Be aware of the position of your hand and arms when talking to your loved one. It should be noted that when communicating with your loved one, be mindful that their body language may not fully tell you how they feel or what they are trying to express because of rigidity or slow movement. Your body language, however, will be read by your loved one.

We know that in the heat of the moment and in stressful situations, it can be hard to remember all of the tips above. If you take one thing from this article, please remember to always remain calm and approach your loved one in a relaxed demeanor. With this open and nonthreatening approach, your loved one will know that you are there to listen. Remember, listening is the foundation of the Second Pillar of Activities and Engagement - Effective Communication.

For More Information, Activities for the Family Caregiver: Frontotemporal Dementia book.

https://www.amazon.com/Activities-Family-Caregiver-Temporal-Dementia/dp/1943285160/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=Activities+for+the+Family+Caregiver%3A+Frontal+Temporal+Dementia+%2F+Frontal+Lobe+Dementia+%2F+Pick%27s+Disease%3A+How+to+Engage+%2F+How+to+Live&qid=1605620036&s=books&sr=1-1

11/16/2020

Dementia and Customary Routines and Preferences

Activities and engagement is not just playing a game of Bingo. It can be many things such as a conversation, playing cards, taking a walk, or just watching a movie. No matter how far our loved one’s dementia has progressed, there is still an opportunity to engage them. Using the Four Pillars of Activities can help families get there.

As we know, Individuals vary in the activities they prefer, reflecting unique personalities, interests, religious and cultural backgrounds. The First Pillar of Activities – Knowing your Loved One – is the first step toward engaging. Using a personal history form to look at our loved ones interests and preferences over their entire life is critically important. The Second Pillar of Activities - Learning to Communicate with our Loved One - is just as important. No matter how far the dementia has progressed, there are ways to communicate.

We now move to the Third Pillar of Activities and Engagement - Customary Routines and Preferences. Activities can occur all day, every day, but we must take care to have a routine and program in place as a guide.

Let us look at the simple routine of a Sunday morning cup of coffee. For years, your loved one woke up, made a cup of coffee, and sat down to read the newspaper. They took their coffee with two teaspoons of sugar and sat at the head of the kitchen table to read the paper before heading to church to sing in the choir.
If the disease has progressed to the point that they cannot enjoy their Sunday morning coffee on their own or read the paper or even speak let alone sing, what can you or other caregivers do to help them maintain that routine?

Can a warm beverage be prepared and offered with a straw to drink out of? Yes, it can.

Can you read the stories of the newspaper out loud to your loved one? Yes, you can.

Can you play your loved ones favorite gospel hymns on some type of device? Yes, you can.

Your loved one may have diminished capacities based on how far their dementia has progressed, but the elements of what they enjoyed throughout their lives on a Sunday morning can still be enjoyed.

Not accommodating your loved one’s lifestyle preferences and routine can contribute to a depressed mood and increased behavioral symptoms. When a person feels that their preferences are not respected, it can be demoralizing.
As we know, activities are a way for individuals to establish meaning in their lives. The need for enjoyable activities does not change based on age or health needs. The only thing that changes is the level of assistance someone may need to engage in those pursuits.

For those of us who are caregivers, we all know the thought and prayer of wishing it could be easier. We as family caregivers have a great opportunity to empower a loved one to see that they possess talents and abilities and reduce our stress at the same time. They did not choose to have dementia and we did not choose to be a caregiver, but here we both are. By modifying or adapting an activity to allow your loved one to engage as independently as possible, you can help restore their self-esteem and self-worth and maybe help keep a good day from turning into a bad one.
For More Information, see the following books:

Family Caregiver: Frontal Lobe Dementia
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285160/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i0

Family Caregiver: Alzheimer’s
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285209/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i4

Family Caregiver: Lewy Body Dementia https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285152/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i8

Activity And Behavior Interventions for Dementia
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285284/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i3

11/12/2020

Talking about changing an aging family member's living situation can sometimes be uncomfortable.

11/11/2020

Tips and Four Tools to Prevent Wandering

Alzheimer’s and dementia sufferers can be prone to wandering. They may suddenly become unfamiliar with their surroundings, even in their own homes.

There are several reasons why those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or
memory loss may wander. Some examples include:

1. They think they are a younger version of themselves. They may be trying to relive something from their former lives, such as going to work or shopping.
2. Disorientation Feeling disoriented can also lead to wandering. For example, your mom may wake up at 5:00 a.m. unsure if it is day going into night, or night going into day and may leave the house to find an answer.
3. Pain and Discomfort Pain and discomfort are others reason why people may wander. They may be trying to escape the pain which they cannot fully express or describe verbally and don’t understand why they feel that way.
4. Agitation Being unhappy in a present situation can be another reason for dad to wander. Whether it is something in the room or he is feeling frustrated due to memory loss, he may try to leave to get away or find something familiar. Simply put, he may go searching for his past and happier times.

Of course, wandering can potentially put mom or dad with Alzheimer’s or other dementia in harm's way, causing caregivers to worry especially if they do not live with mom or dad and are remote caregivers.

Thankfully, there are more products and tools available to help caregivers protect their loved
ones. Here are just a few:

• Wearables Caregivers can keep track of and keep in touch with their loved one with a wearable product. With technology advancements, many wearable products now have voice communication, built-in tracking device with map locations, SOS panic button, destination alerts, GPS and Wi-Fi tracking that work both indoors and outdoors, and magnetic battery charging technology for longer life.
• Camouflage doors with commercial fire-rated door murals. The National Alzheimer’s Association lists camouflaging doors as one of the top ways to deter wandering. There are commercial fire-rated door mural solutions to cover doors and entry ways available at many retailers. These murals can make the door look like a bookshelf full of books and are a great way to discourage mom from attempting to “go home” or wander into dangerous rooms.
• Create and hang a Memory Box. If Dad comes to live with you, you can help orient him and keep him busy with a Memory Box. Fill this box with precious mementos to help dad find and identify his room either at your house or his room at an assisted living community. The items in the box can help recall memories and engage in conversation. You can create multiple boxes if you like based on themes/events from dad’s life – military service, job, high school, sports. Identify what interests him and create a box filled with treasures he will value.
• Install a door alarm. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia in your home has its own host of challenges. One of these challenges is keeping track of your loved one at night. In addition to limiting liquids before bedtime and installing lights in the hallway, a door alarm can help protect your loved one by ringing when off-limit places are entered. Alarms can have adjustable settings such as Chime, Melody, and Alarm. A “Chime” alarm can sound once when a door is opened, a “Melody” will play a selected tune once when a door is opened, and an “Alarm” can sound continuously for four minutes or until it is turned off, even if the door is closed. Of course, if this sound of a Chime, Melody, or Alarm are too unsettling for your loved one, certain products can send a signal to your personal mobile device to alert you.

Wandering can be a challenging behavior to work with, but with education and proper tools that fit your personal situation, you can prevent wandering and protect your loved one.

For more information on activities to keep your loved one busy and active, check out the book:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1515219658/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tpbk_p1_i6

About Caregiving 101:
Common sense discussions based on proven principles of communication, engagement, and daily living are the heart of everything Caregiving 101 offers for family caregivers. Improving quality of life for caregivers is our mission and designing everything for a family caregiver struggling with a loved one is the starting point. Caregiving is hard, our goal is to help make it a little easier

11/09/2020

What Caregivers Need to Know About Aging

Many caregivers feel unprepared, to take on the demands of caring for an elderly loved one. They are thrown into the job without any training to deal with some uncomfortable topics and situations. Aging is a emotionally filled subject, and many people are hesitant to discuss all of the ramifications. The bottom line is that if you become the caregiver for an elderly loved one, you will need to understand the aging process, and how it eventually affects all of us. This way you can try to meet the needs of the senior in your life, with compassion and understanding. Here is what caregivers need to know about aging.

In today's world, with the advance of medicine, seniors are kept artificially young for longer. While it is good to be healthy at any age, it has created another problem: people don't know how to deal with aging anymore. Understanding the aging process, allows caregivers to give compassion, understanding and give them the ability to meet the senior’s needs.

One of the most crucial things to understand is that people tend to lose a bit of the senses as they get older and they will not always tell you or anyone else. When we are talking about loss of sense, we mean:
Taste: They will lose slightly the sense of taste. They may also eat less and lose appetite, probably losing weight as well. If this becomes a big problem, there are certain supplements that can be given to affect better health. These supplements come in the form of powders, juices, shakes and puddings, to make eating them or putting them in other food easy. In addition, this may not overwhelm a senior who is struggling to eat when staring at a giant plate of food.

Hearing: They will also notice a decrease in the audition, some will need a hearing aid to be able to listen properly. Today there are a wide variety of high quality hearing aids without the high price, of going to a hearing specialist and having to pay several thousand dollars.
Vision: They may become visually impaired which can affect everything from moving from room to room or reading menus at a restaurant or identifying the conditioner versus the shampoo in a shower.
Mobility: They may lose mobility and need aids, to be able to move about safely. These aids come in a variety of forms from simple canes, to walkers with wheels.

In addition to the items about, another major concern for caregivers is the incidence of elderly depression. Please note that studies have shown that seniors who are actively engaged mentally, suffer much less from depression. There are many activities that we have prepared for caregivers at caregiving101.com activities that caregivers can use, in order to engage their loved one, but in the meantime, here are some tips.

Reading for them or with them
• Talking to them about their past, about the good memories, and turning points of their lives. It can also be through this that a personal history or scrapbook is developed, to chronicle the senior’s life.
• Encouraging a hobby, such as gardening activities, painting, knitting or other handiwork, where possible.
• Finding opportunities for the senior to be able to contribute to the community. Volunteering or other community work can fill this need.

It should be noted that as a caregiver, if you notice signs of depression, it should never be overlooked. Depression at any age is serious, and should be evaluated by a physician, for diagnosis and treatment.

For more caregiving tips and info to help you right now, check out the book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1943285225/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i16

About Caregiving 101:
Common sense discussions based on proven principles of communication, engagement, and daily living are the heart of everything Caregiving 101 offers for family caregivers. Improving quality of life for caregivers is our mission and designing everything for a family caregiver struggling with a loved one is the starting point. Caregiving is hard, our goal is to help make it a little easier