Memories of a Caregiver
August will always have memories of days passed, filled with moments of happiness, sadness, fun, and reflections. In Cincinnati, Ohio, my sisters and I celebrated mommy’s birthday. She would be 102 years old if she were still alive. Mommy left us with years of countless life lessons. This season will always be a special moment […]
Caregivers Must Adjust for Self-Sake
A lot of individuals take care of a friend or family member with a serious health condition. Caregiving is a labor of love, but it can also be hectic and demanding. How to be an effective caregiver while also taking care of yourself will always be the revolving action item. We know it requires planning […]
To Drive or Not to Drive, That Is the Question!
Honk, honk, Speed it up!! Move over! Who still drives with both hands on the steering wheel? Get in the right lane! Who is letting you still drive? Driving is independence. Who does not want independence? However, what is the yardstick of awareness that affects the ability of older adults to drive safely? Driving restrictions […]
Music to Smooth the Caregiving Atmosphere
Music has always been my way of escape. In the caregiving space, music can work wonders to relax, reflex, and renew. This list is by no means exhaustive. It is prepared to share music that can be relaxing for the caregiver and the care recipient. I hope you enjoy these amazing sounds. Before the caregiving […]
What is Sundowners Syndrome?
During my acute-care years as a registered nurse, I encountered this syndrome many times. As a committed caregiver of loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you likely will face this syndrome, as well. While understanding the importance of staying attuned to daily events of any day or night, this syndrome can throw things off BIG TIME! […]
Durable Medical Equipment when a Loved One Dies
When loved ones are aging in place or coping with an illness or disability, it can be hard to keep up with all of the physical needs, let alone the equipment needs and the companies that provide the services, right? Many aging loved ones have durable medical equipment (DME) in the home. Some equipment is life-sustaining […]
No Never Alone! The Cost of Assuming Elderly Loved-Ones are Safe
This is going to be a short and sweet discussion! I am going to say this loud enough to be heard around the world! This is a Public Service Announcement (PSA) from Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate! Last week, on June 22nd, an elderly man was reported missing (by family) and today in my area, he was […]
Keep Your Loved-One Body Moving
Head up! Shoulders back! Chest high! Back straight! Knees bent! Lift with leg muscles! Where have you heard these commands? The ability to participate in gross and fine motor skills goes away as we age. Many loved ones over time develop limited movement. Their muscles atrophy, bones become brittle and stiff, skin is fragile, and […]
The Elderly in Hot Temperatures
Extreme temperature is not safe for anyone. It is even dangerous if you are older or have health problems. It’s 100 degrees in Texas! LORDT HELP! I watched a news story yesterday and decided it was a great story to share with my blog and podcast audience. The story was about individuals young and old waiting […]
Caregiving — An Important Public Health Concern
Did you know caregiving is a public health challenge? Caregiving is an important public health issue that affects the quality of life for millions of people. Caregivers help with another person’s mental, social, or health needs. Caregiving may include help with one or more activities important for daily living such as bathing and dressing, meal […]