Caregiver Corner

Fear of speaking up in senior communities or nursing homes is a real problem. Residents frequently believe, if they report about the way an aide interacts—or in many cases, does not interact—with them, there will be repercussions. After all, they are the vulnerable ones needing care and assistance. ...

What seems like simple little details are actually important details that matter significantly and make a huge impact on a person’s day. Whether the issue is staff shortages, a need for increased training, understanding someone’s abilities and pace, our tone of voice, asking versus telling... all these details are important to help older adults have quality days, even with their challenges.   ...

Medication management can become a challenge as our loved ones age. Are they still able to handle it on their own? Nearly one in three hospital admissions and readmissions of the elderly are linked to problems and/or harmful side effects due to medications. ...

We all want to maintain our independence. Many of us are willing to risk safety, quality, comfort and potential injury, all to hold onto to our way of life. But resisting change can be dangerous. How do you know when safety should outweigh the wish to remain independent? How do you know when it is time to move?  ...

Let's say you have fallen and broken a bone. The hospital team has done their job and now it's time to go to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation. Sometimes that can be a rocky transition. ...

Delirium is a temporary state of mental confusion that starts suddenly. It is caused by a physical condition of some sort, such as infections, dehydration or low salt levels, and liver and kidney problems. Someone suffering from delirium might not know where they are, what time it is, or what’s happening to them. It can be very frightening to see a loved one so disoriented, but typically, delirium will go away with treatment and support.  ...

Debilitating dizziness in older adults is not uncommon and can be caused by health imbalances, medication side-effects or even dehydration. Seek medical help to regain your sense of balance, clarity and overall wellness. ...

Schedule appointments when they fit your schedule best. This is not always an option but when it is, consider your or your loved one’s pain level, mobility, drive time, bathroom schedule, meal and medication schedule and other issues. ...