Archives by: Jennifer Beach
About the author
Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM writes the Thrive blog, Caregiver Corner. She established Advocate for Elders in Rocky River in 2010. Jennifer has 25 years of experience in working with and advocating for older adults and their families. Jennifer is a licensed, insured Social Worker and an Advanced Aging Life Care® Professional. She has served as the Midwest Chapter President of the Aging Life Care Association and additionally served 7 years on the Board of Directors. In 2018, Jennifer was honored as the recipient of the ALCA Midwest Chapter Outstanding Member of the Year Award. Learn more at advocate4elders.com.
Jennifer Beach Posts
Hospital-acquired infections are among the most common hospital-related complications affecting one in 25 patients. These infections are largely preventable. If simple oral care can reduce non-ventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia, and improve comfort and quality of life, then we must advocate for ourselves and/or our loved ones to ensure that this simple task be completed daily. ...
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One-fourth of Americans over 65 fall each year and over half of those falls take place in the home, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Many people believe falling and aging go hand-in-hand, but that’s not true. Falls are caused by many avoidable things. Read on for tips on staying on your feet and off the floor. ...
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Challenges with hygiene often go hand-in-hand for individuals with dementia. However, research and practical experience show that a person-centered approach can turn this battleground into a peaceful experience. When using techniques that work best for the individual, they experience a significant decrease in agitation and anxiety and their caregivers also experience less agitation and distress. Bath time doesn't have to be a battle. ...
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More than 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the United States. For some, assisted living and long-term care eventually may be required but for many, staying at home will continue to be an option. If the goal is to stay at home, review several important considerations now to avoid problems later. ...
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We need to consider quality-of-life issues and choices for our older adults. We want to do our best, and often go to extreme medical measures and tests to “help” our elderly loved ones. But is this the best approach? ...
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As a kid, you knew the rules. Rule #1 was to never lie to your parents. But now that your aging parents are resisting the help they need, you may find yourself wondering if a white lie may be in order. When straight talk isn't working, is it time for a "fiblet"? Here's what the experts have to say... ...
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Q: What are the key ingredients that constitute quality of life for older adults receiving daily care? A: Their interactions with the staff — meaning caregivers, aides, care helpers or whatever name a facility uses for the individuals providing the direct care services and support. Follow five key factors to make someone's day... every day. ...
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After about three months in skilled rehab, Mr. Smith had reached a plateau. This meant that he was no longer making enough progress with his therapy as required by his insurance to continue receiving therapy services. For most people, the goal of skilled rehabilitation is to get stronger and return home. Unfortunately, things don't always go as planned. It's worth the time to know what questions to ask from the start. ...
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