When we begin to notice changes in the behavior of a friend or family member, we should step back and evaluate the cause and possible consequences. We may not notice the warning signs and consequently wait too long to address them. The result of this can be devastating.
Senior Financial Life’s team of advisors and professionals can help to plan a careful strategy to avoid being caught off guard when there are changes in life. Contact us today to find out how.
Take note of these eight warning signs that should not be ignored.
POOR EATING HABITS Weight loss No appetite Missed meals Empty cupboards and refrigerator
NEGLECTED HYGIENE Wearing dirty clothes Body odor Neglected nails and teeth
NEGLECTED HOME Scorched pots & pans Unopened mail Piles of laundry, papers, dishes, etc Dirty bathrooms, floors, tables, excess clutter
INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR Angry outbursts Quiet or withdrawn Paranoia Making phone calls at all hours, inappropriate times
MISHANDLED FINANCES Losing or misplacing money Paying bills twice or not at all Hiding money
HARMFUL BEHAVIORS Misuse of alcohol or medications Missed appointments Falling New relationships with strangers
DECREASED PARTICIPATION Not attending regular activities, senior center, church, clubs or volunteering
CHANGED RELATIONSHIP PATTERNS Isolation Ignoring friends No interaction with neighbors
Being a caregiver for an older loved one can be very rewarding. The truth is as much aswe long to give our best, caregiving is exhausting! Being a family caregiver is likely not something you expected. The challenges can seem overwhelming at times. It’s perfectly normal to feel like you need a break. Carving out time for yourself is essential for your well-being. A family vacation or getaway with friends is often just theremedy needed to rest, refuel and reconnect with your thoughts and feelings.
You may be asking “How can I find someone to properly care for my loved one so I can plan for time away?” Carving out time for yourself can be difficult, especially with the added demands and responsibilities of work and family. That’s where in-home respite care comes in! In-home respite care is an option that allows older adults to remain in the familiar surroundings of home while you’re away. The New Jersey Department of Human Services does provide some assistance for those in need of respite care however there are stipulations and limitations. There are respite care opportunities in senior living communities and nursing homes but most people prefer to stay home and avoid the upset of a temporary move to unfamiliar surroundings. For a pleasant experience for both your family and your loved one, home respite care is the answer.
What Are the Advantages of In-Home Respite Care?
Respite care or short-term assistance given by a home care professional caregiver (Certified Home Health Aide, CHHA) is a wonderful way to get that time away and worry less, knowing that your loved one is well taken care of. It can be helpful for other occasions as well, such as weddings, business trips, unexpected events or anytime when you need a qualified caregiver to step in and take your place.
Visiting Angels Home Care has a multi-level approach with the tools in place to provide quality care for your loved ones. Our care team has been developed to provide continuity of care that includes:
● Nurse Supervision – a nursing assessment is done and a customized care plan is created with your loved ones needs and desires in mind. ● Client-Caregiver Liaison – The liaison is in place to address any concerns you, your loved one or the caregiver may have concerning your loved one. ● Certified Home Health Aides – trained to provide your loved one with compassionate care with dignity and respect. ● Support Staff – who are in place 24/7 to address any concerns regarding your loved one while you are away.
So what are you waiting for? Take that vacation, reconnect with friends, say yes to the business trip. A respite care plan will allow you to get some rest and relaxation, take care of business and maintain your sanity. Avoid caregiver burnout! You will be a better family caregiver if you give yourself time to refuel. Entrust your loved one into the capable hands of Visiting Angels.
Visiting Angels is committed to providing your loved one the highest quality care with compassion, dignity and respect. We are licensed, insured and recognized for excellence in home care. We offer flexible scheduling options that range from hourly care, round-the-clock and live-in assistance. Schedules can be arranged a few times a year or on a recurring basis. Once you try Visiting Angels you may decide that the continuing with our services are a worthwhile investment for your family. An established relationship with Visiting Angels will remove the stress and provide the optimal lifestyle for your loved one.
