• Your spouse passed away, and now you are alone in the home
• A larger home is hard to maintain as you age, especially with limited mobility
• You have unused rooms in your house
• You are moving into independent living and selling your home

If you decide to move into a smaller home or plan to move into a retirement home or independent living, here are some downsizing tips for older adults to make the process easier.

1. Shift Your Mindset

Downsizing may stir up difficult emotions like feelings of loss, depression, or anxiety. Change is always hard, and downsizing may be attached to feelings of losing independence and grief over the past. You can acknowledge and honor these feelings, but keeping perspective is important. After all, downsizing has numerous benefits. For example,

• A smaller home is easier to maintain
• Moving allows you to go through belongings and scale down to the ones you need
• Life can be simpler
• A new space can be more accessible to navigate, such as switching to a one-story home compared to two stories
• Moving to an appropriate home can help you avoid hazards like snow and ice that become harder to deal with as you age
• Downsizing can help save money
• If moving into independent living or a similar environment, downsizing comes with additional benefits, like a community to interact with

2. Plan Your Moving Process

Moving involves many details and a timeline to follow. To stay organized and minimize stress, develop a strategic plan with a timeline that shows what you need to accomplish and when. Making last-minute decisions adds stress, so following this plan makes it easier to take care of the moving process one step at a time and stay on top of what needs to be done. 

3. Start in Advance

If you have the time before you need to move, begin going through your possessions well in advance; this stage often takes a lot of time and work, especially if you have been in your home for decades. Taking your time with packing allows you to reminisce and decide what you want to keep and what can go. Also, it can allow you to split up belongings and give heirlooms to adult children early, which can create special moments and prevent quibbles between them later.

If you do not have the time, you can put your extra belongings into a storage unit or a loved one’s home until you can sort through them.

4. Plan Out Your New Space

Before moving in, consider the floor plan of your new space. Look at the square footage and layout, including aspects like where the doors and closets are located. This information will help you determine how to fit your current furniture into the new floor plan and whether it is best to get rid of some furniture.

5. Recruit Family Members to Help

Large projects like moving become more manageable when you have help. Many hands make light work, so enlist family members to help pack boxes and plan certain aspects of the move. They can also help you physically move furniture and belongings from one home to another,  rather than hiring a moving company. 

6. Start by Decluttering

Deciding what to keep and what to get rid of can be challenging. Start with a decluttering process that involves removing junk and items you know you do not need. Get rid of duplicate items that only get in the way and items you have not used for a year or more.

When you begin packing items that will come with you, start with ones you know you want to keep but do not need for everyday use, such as seasonal or sentimental items; just be sure not to overdo it so everything fits in your new space. 

7. Decide What to Toss, Give Away, Sell, or Donate

When getting rid of possessions, you do not need to throw away everything. The garbage is good for junk and damaged items. But if an item is still in good condition, someone else could use it.

First, think about which items your loved ones may want to keep. For what is left over, think about whether you could sell the item. After that, you can donate the rest to a local charity. That is the order: toss, give away, sell, then donate. 

8. Clearly Label Boxes

As you box up items, label the side of the box with the room’s name and contents. For example, a box could say “dining room” and “contains dishes and silverware.” This information will help you know exactly what is in each box, making the process much easier when it is time to unbox in the new home.

If you plan to use a moving company, use code words for valuables or have a family member help you move those items.

9. Keep Important Documents Separate

Stay organized and keep important documents like social security cards, healthcare records, and financial information in a file and separate from the moving boxes. Keep these documents with you and move them from one location to the next yourself.

10. Pack Essentials Last

Wait until the end to pack items you use regularly, including essential medication, toiletries, clothing, and cooking items. You will still need these items during the transition, so they will be the last to move.

11. Keep Sentimental Items in a Different Form

We all have a sentimental side, and keeping items for their sentimental value rather than a purpose can be easy. If the items are now getting in the way of a smooth transition to a smaller home, consider finding a way to keep their sentimentality while eliminating the item itself.

For instance, it is possible to:

• Digitize physical photos and store them in the cloud or a flash drive (or both) rather than keeping all the photos
• Rather than keeping an entire blanket that holds sentimental value, cut a small square and keep just that piece
• Turn the nameplate from a trophy and pendants from jewelry into wall displays that incorporate many pieces – like a shadow box or something similar
• For anything else that you cannot dismantle, take pictures of the items so you can cherish the memories they hold while getting rid of the physical items 

12. Keep Familiar Surroundings

While downsizing offers the chance for a positive change, you can keep some things the same. For a sense of familiarity in a new environment, you can arrange the furniture and personal items in the same way you had them in the previous home. 

13. Know What to Expect from the New Community

If you are moving to an independent living or retirement community, learn about its guidelines and features in advance. This will prevent unwelcome surprises and help you prepare for your move.

This part of the process also includes finding out what services and amenities the community provides and which ones you are responsible for. For example, does the neighborhood include cable television, internet, and landscaping services, or will those be your responsibility? Knowing what you do and do not need to arrange ahead of time and preparing accordingly will make the transition less stressful. 

14. Choose and Create a Safer Environment

Many older adults downsize and move because their current house becomes challenging to navigate and may not be as safe for them going forward. Usually, stairs are the culprit. 

Moving allows you to choose a safer space, so keep this in mind as you select and set up the new home. You can still create a familiar environment with the same furniture and decor while creating a safer environment. 

Here are some ways to maximize safety:

• First, choose a safer home layout, such as one without stairs or uneven flooring
• If the new home does not already include safety features, such as grab bars for the shower, you can add some
• Minimize tripping hazards by keeping rooms open, setting up the room so there is enough space to move around well, removing clutter from the floors, and setting up cords so they are not a tripping hazard 
• If you have a choice, choose non-slip flooring, and put backing behind rugs

15. Be Open to a Moving or Organizational Professional

If you find it emotionally draining to go through your things or cannot make the decisions on your own, professional organizers can help. These specialists can help you review your items and determine what to keep and eliminate.

Since they are not as emotionally attached to your items, they will find it easier to figure everything out. They also tend to have systems and methods for simplifying the decluttering process.

In addition, moving professionals are helpful for boxing items and moving them from one location to another if your family is unable to help. Then, you can skip some of the physical and emotional burdens of the process.

Consider a Senior Living Community

Downsizing might make you think of a smaller house or condo. However, there are many different options available for seniors. For example, independent living is worth considering as it provides a high level of autonomy with less care than a nursing home or assisted living.

Senior living communities include certain features and amenities that can support a well-rounded life. Depending on the community, they might provide activities and transportation. In addition, many of these communities offer supportive options like housekeeping and meals, making life easier as you age.

Living in a senior community like the aforementioned can help combat the challenging emotions that may come with downsizing, as many independent living communities offer social activities. Moving to one also makes it easier to transition to a different kind of senior living community, such as assisted living, memory care, or a nursing home, if the time comes for a change like that.

Take Advantage of Senior Living Placement Support with CarePatrol

We hope these downsizing tips make your transition easier. If you are interested in senior care options, CarePatrol can help you find the right independent living, assisted living, memory care, or other options to fit your needs. We provide our senior care advisory services at no cost to you. Contact us or find a Local Senior Care Advisor near you.

Weight gain or loss:  If this is happening without a plan to alter their weight, it may be a sign that an older adult is struggling with mobility, depression, a poor diet, dementia, or any number of health concerns. 

Mood changes: If a loved one is exhibiting behavior that doesn’t represent their normal demeanor, this could be a red flag. Depression is common in older adults, with 20% of people over the age of 55 experiencing a mental health concern. Does your loved one have decreased energy?  No interest in the things that normally brought them joy? Are they acting differently toward family and friends? Their outlook is worth examining. 

Disarray at home:  When you visit, are you surprised to find clutter and mess? Laundry piles and dirty dishes are a clue that your loved one is struggling with household tasks. Check for expired food and neglected house projects like overgrown lawns, which are signs that they may be feeling overwhelmed. 

Bills that aren’t being paid on time:  A change in financial responsibility is another sign that things are in crisis.  Late payment notices or bounced checks can reveal an issue with keeping up with the monthly responsibilities. 

Medication issues: Is your loved one running out of prescribed medication before the end of their script? Or are there lots of pills left in the bottle? If so, they may be encountering challenges with metering out medication dosages. 

Having a conversation about senior care with an older loved one may feel difficult to approach, but it can result in relief for them as well as peace of mind for you and your family.  Working with a CarePatrol Senior Care Advisor is an effective strategy to help your loved one stay safe. We can help you pinpoint the amount of care they need and recommend the best care solutions based on preferences, health requirements, and budget. Our discovery process and network of over 20,000 pre-screened communities will help you make the right informed decision for your loved one. Our advisory services are available to your family at no cost. Reach out today for peace of mind tomorrow. 

The fear of falling for older adults is real, even if they haven’t experienced one. A recent study found that 71% of older Americans are concerned about falls, and 42% reported having a personal experience with a fall in their household. It may make an older adult hesitant to walk, take part in social activities, or even do a routine task like shopping. But remaining active is an essential step in staying healthy and preventing falls.  

There are common conditions that can contribute to falls. These risk factors include: 

• Vision issues
• Conditions like diabetes, heart disease or thyroid issues which may affect balance
• Reflexes that have slowed with age
• Foot pain
• Age-related loss of muscle mass 
• Lower body weakness
• Cognitive impairment or dementia 
• Deficiency of Vitamin D 
• Unsafe footwear 
• Challenges with balance 
• Difficulty walking 
• Changes in gait
• Medicines that have side effects like confusion or dizziness 
• Environmental hazards like uneven steps, clutter, or throw rugs that are unsecured 

One risk factor or a combination can set the stage for a fall. There are ways to reduce the fall risk for your mom or dad:

• Encourage balance and strength training exercises through physical therapy, yoga, Pilates, or tai chi. 
• Help review their home for fall risks and take the steps to enhance security, including fixing broken steps, tacking down throw rugs and ensuring proper lighting. 
• Vision and hearing tests can help determine if there is an increased or changed risk of falling. 
• Even light exercise can improve muscles and build strength, as well as encourage flexibility in the joints and ligaments. 
• Check on the side effects of all medication they take, focusing on any that promote dizziness or sleepiness. 
• Set a sleep schedule. When a person is tired, they are more likely to fall. 
• Review their footwear. Do the shoes fit properly? Invest in low heeled, non skid, rubber soled shoes. 
• Encourage mom or dad to stand slowly.  When standing fast, blood pressure can plummet, which will cause unsteadiness. 

Another valuable step you can take is to enlist the help of a senior care advisor if a parent has expressed concerns about falling. CarePatrol Senior Care Advisors can help your family determine what level of care your loved one needs. This valuable information is the first step in searching for the right care options tailored to your parent.  Our unique, three step discovery process will give you the information you need to make an informed decision while keeping your family safe.  And best of all, our advisory services are available to your family at absolutely no cost. 

Reach out today and enjoy the feeling of knowing that Mom and Dad are safe.

Social wellness, or the relationships we have and how we interact with others, is an important part of our lives. July is Social Wellness Month, an excellent opportunity to take stock of our valuable relationships and see how we can better foster a genuine connection with those around us. For the older adults in our lives, we can find ways to help strengthen their bonds so they can stay connected and avoid isolation. 

Relationships support us when times are challenging, bring us joy, and help us grow as individuals. As we age, our social circle can change, making it more difficult to maintain our social relationships. Leaving the workplace, health challenges, moving and losing friends can change an older adult’s social circle. Losing interest in activities and having less energy can result in depression.  Loneliness can lead to a range of health concerns like an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. 

If you have concerns about the potential social isolation of an older loved one, there are ways to help them live their best life through socialization. Here are some tips to help:

Fortify existing bonds: As life changes quickly, it can become challenging to stay in touch with friends and family. People move, priorities change and maintaining the same relationship that you shared in the past may not be possible but there are ways to stay connected. Maybe meeting in person isn’t possible for an older adult who has mobility issues. Staying in touch with family across the country isn’t easy. But thanks to technology, it is possible to connect via video chat, keeping those bonds alive. By scheduling regular contact, it can make relationships simple to maintain. 

Explore hobbies: Older adults may have more free time than when they were working to explore areas of interest. Through trying a new hobby or picking up on an activity that once brought joy, it is possible to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Gardening, exercise or reading can put them in the path of people with similar interests to form new friendships. 

Volunteer: Feeling needed can bring fulfillment, a sense of purpose and social connection.  Whether it is crocheting hats for newborns in a hospital or volunteering at a library in their senior community, encouraging this way to connect can be so beneficial.  

At CarePatrol, we understand the importance of social wellness and support this by helping families find the right senior care solutions for their loved ones. Senior solutions can give older adults the chance to make new friendships, expand their social circle and feel part of a community. How can we help your loved ones? 

1. Estate Planning 

Preparation of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other estate planning documents is important. Your overall estate plan should provide contingencies if you cannot manage your finances alone. 

A complete estate plan helps your family members understand your wishes for your end-of-life care and addresses how someone should distribute your assets upon your death. As your life circumstances change, your estate plan may require updating. 

1. Durable Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives 

A durable power of attorney remains effective if you become incapacitated and is specifically designed for long-term decision-making when you cannot act on your behalf. While a general power of attorney is also a valuable estate planning tool, having a durable power of attorney is important. 

Life is full of uncertainties. Should you be involved in an accident and unable to communicate your wishes, plans can be communicated by the person who is appointed your attorney, through a durable power of attorney. 

If you have only a general power of attorney and no health care proxy in place, your family members may have to go to court to get authorization to handle your health care needs and finances. 

Depending on your state, you may also need advance health care directives. This document can give your loved ones the authority to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot speak for yourself. 

1. Advance Medicaid Planning 

Medicaid can help offset the costs of skilled nursing home care later in life or for disabled family members. However, this program is based on financial need. Each state has different requirements and asset caps. While the program is a joint program offered by the federal and state governments, the Medicaid application process can be confusing. 

Planning for the possible need for Medicaid in the future can help preserve your assets for your family. An experienced elder law attorney can help you make the decisions you need to make to help ensure your eligibility for this valuable program should you need it later. 

Medicaid planning strategies, such as asset protection trusts, income strategies, and spend-down plans, can help qualify for Medicaid benefits while preserving assets for aging loved ones. 

1. Long-Term Care Planning 

Working with an elder law attorney specializing in long-term care and financial planning ensures that your plans are legally sound, comprehensive, and tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. 

Your own certified elder law attorney can assess your current and potential future care needs, considering factors such as health status, mobility, daily living activities, and family support. In addition, they can provide insight on paying for long-term care, including Medicaid and long-term care insurance. 

Elder law attorneys can provide valuable guidance, advocacy, and support throughout planning to help you achieve peace of mind and financial security for long-term care. 

1. Protection from Financial Exploitation 

Protecting assets from financial exploitation is crucial, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable to scams, fraud, and undue influence. There are several ways an elder law attorney can help avoid financial exploitation, including: 

• Power of Attorney (POA) 
• Trusts 
• Asset Titling 
• Guardianship/Conservatorship 
• Financial Monitoring 
• Estate Planning 

Working with an elder law attorney, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their assets from financial exploitation and ensure their financial well-being and security as they age. Older adults often have more complex legal issues than their younger counterparts. Fortunately, elder law legal professionals are here to help. 

1. Guardianship and Conservatorship 

Guardianship or conservatorship can be beneficial methods of protecting an incapacitated person. These steps may be necessary when no other means are available to assist a person when they need to make informed decisions. 

A guardian or conservator can be appointed for any person who needs assistance making decisions. Both guardians and conservators can only be appointed if a court hears evidence that the person lacks mental capacity in some or all areas of their life and needs help. 

Elder law attorneys are trained to help aging adults and families deal with situations where these actions may be required. 

1. Trusts Versus Wills 

Depending on circumstances, you may wish to have a will on file. Wills are specifically designed to spell out your wishes for the disbursement of your assets after your death. However, in some cases, you may prefer a trust. 

A trust is another legal document designed to distribute your assets after death. However, there are some significant differences between these two estate planning legal documents, including: 

• Probate — in nearly all cases, a will has to go through probate court. This means your assets and disbursement of assets will all be public. Trusts offer privacy and do not have to go through probate. This means your estate can settle faster. 
• Asset Protection — you may put assets into your trust during your lifetime. Your trust may also serve as the beneficiary of your retirement accounts and life insurance policies. 

There are many factors to consider when deciding if a will or a trust is a better option for your estate. A qualified elder law attorney can help you make the right decision based on your unique circumstances. 

1. End-Of-Life Planning 

End-of-life planning involves making decisions about your healthcare, financial matters, and personal wishes for when you can no longer make those decisions yourself. Having a plan to ensure your wishes are honored and reduce stress for your loved ones during a difficult time is important. 

Your end-of-life planning is unique to you. There is no one-size-fits-all. You can use health care directives, wills or trusts, and durable powers of attorney to ensure your wishes for medical care, distribution of your assets after death, and your wishes for burial. 

1. Disability and Social Security Benefits 

Family members unable to care for themselves because of a disability may qualify for social security benefits. However, the application process can be confusing and requires significant documentation. The best option for most people is to work with a qualified elder law attorney with experience dealing with these matters. 

Qualifying for Social Security disability payments can be complicated, and any mistakes in the original application can result in being rejected for benefits. Working with a qualified elder law attorney may result in a better outcome since these professionals have a working understanding of the process and required documents. 

10. Veterans Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides pension benefits to eligible wartime veterans and their surviving spouses who have limited income and assets. This benefit can help cover the costs of long-term care. 

Additionally, there is an aid and attendance benefit, which is an additional pension benefit available to veterans and their spouses who require assistance with daily living activities or are housebound due to a disability. 

Navigating veterans benefits and elder law can be complex, so consulting with professionals who understand these areas can be invaluable for veterans and their families. 

The benefits of working with an elder care lawyer 

Some of the benefits of working with an elder care lawyer include specialized expertise, personalized planning, legal navigation, asset protection, advocacy, peace of mind, family harmony, benefit maximization, prevention of financial exploitation, and comprehensive end-of-life planning. 

Each of us has concerns about retirement, end-of-life, advanced health care directives, and our estate planning documents. Having an elder care lawyer who can help you navigate these challenging topics can be beneficial to you and your family. 

Whether it is time for you to consider estate planning, dealing with long-term care planning, or helping understand Medicaid eligibility, an estate planning lawyer can help. In addition to tax planning, you can get help managing investments, retirement planning, or protecting assets from potential risks. 

Navigating retirement benefits, pension plans, and related legal matters can also be managed by an elder law planning attorney. Health care proxies, living wills, and end-of-life planning are also services offered by elder care attorneys. 

The Significance of Early Planning 

Early planning provides peace of mind, reduces the burden on your loved ones during difficult times, and allows you to leave a meaningful legacy according to your wishes. 

Early estate planning is not just about distributing assets; it also involves making decisions about healthcare and financial matters in case you become incapacitated. Creating documents such as a durable power of attorney, a healthcare directive, and a will or trust early on allows you to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. 

Early estate planning allows you to take advantage of various legal strategies to reduce estate taxes and maximize the inheritance your loved ones receive. It can also help protect minor children or family members with special needs. 

Regardless of your age, an elder law attorney can be an invaluable advisor and help you navigate the complexities of estate planning. 

When Should I Hire an Elder Law Attorney? 

Hiring an experienced elder law attorney is crucial for ensuring your loved ones receive the best possible legal protection and assistance as they age. Before hiring an attorney, educate yourself about elder law and the specific issues you or your loved one may be facing. This could include topics such as estate planning, long-term care planning, Medicaid, Medicare, guardianship, and elder abuse. 

Understand the attorney’s fee structure upfront. Some attorneys may charge hourly rates, while others may offer flat fees or contingency fees for certain services. Make sure you are comfortable with the fees and billing practices. 

The right elder law attorney can help you make very important decisions that will impact you during your golden years and help your family deal with your end-of-life care and final wishes. The sooner you hire a qualified elder law attorney, the better your overall estate plan will be. 

Your local CarePatrol Senior Care Advisor partners with various local professionals and works closely with elder law attorneys. We can help provide the resources and information you need as you navigate senior care options for you or your loved one. Reach out today to learn how we can support you, as our services are available at no cost to you or your family.

What Qualifies a Patient for Skilled Nursing Care? 

While skilled nursing services may sound helpful, especially for family caregivers, it takes more than a desire to receive and qualify. So, who qualifies? 

There are a range of situations that could qualify an aging loved one for short-term or long-term skilled nursing care in a facility or for home visits. Here are some examples of when short-term skilled nursing facilities may be needed: 

•     Extra support following surgery or an accident. 
•     Rehabilitation for a medical reason, such as a stroke. 
•     Acute illness or a chronic condition that requires extensive care. 
•     Complex medical needs that require specialized or ongoing care, such as medical monitoring or respiratory care. 

People Who Need Skilled Nursing Staff 

The consideration of whether a loved one requires this kind of care often comes down to the need for trained professionals to help, whether it is for a recovery period in a skilled nursing community or a long-term basis in a nursing home. In many cases, your loved one would not be safe and have their condition properly managed if they were to go home. 

Many people who qualify for skilled nursing or nursing homes are older adults who are at a higher risk of falls, have chronic conditions, and other health problems that may qualify them. Older adults often benefit from services that can improve their quality of life and ability to carry out activities of daily living. 

Insurance Coverage for Care  

It is important to consider Insurance may cover some or part of the cost of care if your loved one qualifies. Of course, it depends on the plan. For example, Medicare Part A covers skilled care in a facility on a short-term basis if certain conditions are met. 

To qualify for a short-term stay with Medicare, a doctor must determine that the individual requires skilled nursing care in a facility.  

Medicare usually will not cover a long-term stay, but the individual and family can see whether their situation qualifies for Medicaid support. They may also be able to pay for this kind of care through long-term care insurance, veteran’s benefits, social security, private assistance, or private pay. 

What Is Included in Skilled Nursing Services? 

This level of care involves health professionals like registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to provide skilled nursing services that fit a patient’s needs. It’s designed for when a person needs skilled nursing care to treat, manage, observe, and evaluate medical issues or situations. 

Skilled nursing focuses primarily on medical care and provides skilled professionals to provide it. This differs from other levels of care. For instance, assisted living facilities focus more on a living situation, residential services, and support that doesn’t require the same level of qualification as skilled medical care.  

For instance, staff members may support a person with meals, showering, companionship, and cleaning. There may be some medical services, but they are not provided continuously, as with skilled nursing. 

Types of Skilled Nursing Care 

Skilled nursing services often include: 

•     Rehabilitation: This could include physical, speech, or occupational therapy to improve the person’s abilities and quality of life. 
•     Chronic disease/condition management: A person may need a disease or health condition managed individually that addresses their full health picture. 
•     Medication management: In many cases, people need skilled nursing care to supervise their medication regimen and to properly administer the medications, potentially also monitoring for adverse effects. 
•     Medical monitoring: The professionals in skilled nursing facilities routinely take the patient’s vital signs and monitor their health, adjusting the care plan if needed. 
•     Wound care: Professionals can provide specialized wound care when needed to minimize complications and provide the best conditions for healing. 
•     Pain management: This involves monitoring and assessing pain levels and finding ways to manage the pain and improve comfort. 
•     Medical social services: This type can help coordinate services supporting the patient and caregivers, such as community resources and counseling. 
•       Medical supplies: Generally, specific medical supplies are needed to provide the person’s skilled nursing care. 
•       Transportation: Services may cover transportation by an ambulance if necessary to bring the person to needed skilled nursing care services. 

Care in a Skilled Nursing Care Facility  

Receiving skilled nursing care often involves entering a skilled nursing facility. There is also the possibility of receiving this care at home, but is generally more limited.  

Skilled nursing care facilities provide a higher level of care than many other types in the spectrum of care, such as assisted living facilities or having someone help with activities of daily living. The term skilled nursing care refers to the skill involved, requiring licensed professionals in charge of the care. 

If an older adult stays in a skilled nursing facility to receive this kind of care, they generally receive additional services during the stay as well. These services go beyond medical care but are a part of living. For instance, this tends to include a semi-private room that is cleaned, meals, and dietary counseling. 

In general, the highest type of skilled nursing care takes place in short-term skilled nursing facilities, which are close to the level of care provided in a hospital. Long-term care can take place in a nursing home, which often provides a reduced level of skilled care compared to skilled nursing facilities. 

Qualify for Skilled Nursing Services  

Overall, a doctor needs to state that a person qualifies for skilled nursing care. It’s likely that this will happen due to a hospital stay where the person is being treated for an accident or health condition. If an aging adult cannot safely go home after the hospital stay and needs continuous treatment, our CarePatrol Senior Care Advisors can help you determine the next step for your loved one. 

An intriguing statistic is that 20% of men say that they will seek out medical attention because a loved one is pressuring them to do so. This speaks to the power of Men’s Health Month, occurring every June. Encourage the men in your life to take better care of themselves emotionally and physically. This is an opportunity to schedule exams that may be overdue or to maintain routine testing. Since early detection is essential for effective treatment of many health concerns, annual testing is important. 

Key areas for men to consider for overall well-being and health include: 

Remember heart health: Many heart ailments do not present symptoms and men are at greater risk for heart disease. Don’t forget to check blood pressure as well. 

Maintain strong social connections: That men’s fishing weekend may have more benefits than you realize. Friends who have a history or share similar interests like sports or hobbies enrich our lives in so many ways. Having kids in common or working together is also a great bond to begin a friendship. These connections help keep isolation and depression at bay. 

Schedule health screenings: As we get older, we are more at risk for health concerns so it is important to follow the schedule by age and health background set by your doctor. If you’re over 45, remember to start screening for colorectal cancer. 

Give a voice to your feelings: Mental health is an important part of your overall wellness. Men are less apt to seek treatment or talk about their feelings openly. Encourage a loved one who might be struggling with anxiety or depression to talk to their doctor. 

CarePatrol believes that a commitment to health is one that helps everyone, especially older adults, thrive and enjoy their best lives. That’s why we take our role as experts in senior care solutions seriously. It is our driving passion to give families peace of mind by finding the best senior care options.  Our services are at no cost to families, so reach out and let us help you today. 

Toast or yogurt? 

Rain jacket or sweater?

Before we even leave the house each morning, we’ve made a number of decisions. So many, in fact, that we can’t fathom how many choices we make in just one morning, often on auto-pilot.  Our daily routine is guided by these options and the outcomes of our choices. 

When a more stressful situation begins, like worrying about the safety of an older loved one, these minor decisions can become challenging. This is known as decision fatigue, the concept that our ability to make decisions can get worse after making many decisions. We’ve all been through this scenario. You may realize that at the end of a long, stressful day, even the most simple choices like what to have for dinner can leave you feeling stuck. 

A person experiencing decision fatigue may feel both mentally and emotionally overwhelmed from the number of decisions they have made, which can lead to poor choices, stress and procrastination. Self-doubt enters, causing the person to second guess their ability to make good choices. Even basic decisions become challenging and take up too much mental energy since there is more deliberation on even the most simple tasks. Imagine how enormous the major choices can feel at this time, especially things like finding senior care solutions for an aging loved one. It is difficult to effectively tackle these important concerns. 

According to the American Medical Association, a person with decision fatigue may feel exhausted physically and even have a sense of brain fog. The cumulative impact of this physical and mental fatigue can leave someone with a sense of being wiped out by the end of the day.  Impulsive behavior, anger at coworkers or family members and reckless decision making are the reality of this common situation. People have reported feeling distracted, anxious and withdrawn.  

How can you manage decision fatigue? Here are some tips to help make decision fatigue easier to deal with: 

Delegate decision making when you can: You don’t have to handle all of the decisions in your life. Trust in family members, co-workers and friends to make smaller decisions, especially those that truly don’t require your full attention. By eliminating some of the decisions on your plate, you will feel less overwhelmed. 

Embrace downtime in your day:  In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to keep going without taking a break to recharge. Literally schedule a break in your day, taking a solid 20 minutes to read a book, watch some guilty pleasure reality tv, go for a walk, journal or meditate.  This is your time to relax and clear your mind, without decisions looming large. 

Take some choices off your plate:  Automate the situations that you can.  Set out breakfast the night before so you don’t have to think in the morning about what to eat. There are even some prominent leaders like Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs who opted to wear similar if not the same thing every day. By eliminating the daily choice of what to wear, they were able to focus on other decisions.  

Set a sleep schedule and stick to it:  When you’re sleep deprived, you’re more likely to make bad decisions, have poor impulse control and feel more emotional. The better quality of sleep, the better you’ll feel about your choices.  

We at CarePatrol understand the enormity of decision making. When it comes to finding the right senior care for your older loved one, we ask the right questions to be able to provide the best options based on desires, health needs, location and budget. By accompanying you on tours, we can answer your questions and stand by you as your family makes the important decisions. Our services are no cost to you, so reach out today to discover why CarePatrol has been the expert in senior care services for over three decades.  

According to the World Health Organization, between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years of age will almost double from 12% to 22%.  For older adults, regular physical activity is essential to delay or prevent a multitude of health issues that can be linked to aging.  Adults over 65 years of age can benefit from 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity like brisk walking or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise like jogging or spin activity on a stationary bike.  Muscle strengthening activities as well as balance improving exercises are ideal to help prevent falls.  

Although belonging to a gym or exercise club can be a great motivator, there are daily tasks that can help older adults get the exercise they need, including:

• Gardening
• Dancing with the grandchildren 
• Parking further away when doing errands to get some additional steps into your day
• Walking in a park or finding a hiking trail to try 
• Active types of yoga 
• Water aerobics 

It is important for an older adult to know their limitations or speak to their doctor before starting an exercise program, especially with conditions like osteoarthritis which can be limiting as well as high impact activity that can make chronic pain intense. Opting for low impact options can make exercise more comfortable and easy to include daily.  Low impact exercise puts less strain on joints, helps develop coordination and balance as well as poses a lower fall risk.  

The benefits of regular exercise include an increase in better quality of sleep and a boost to the immune system. A very important perk of activity is a marked improvement in mental health, including a decrease in depression, isolation and anxiety, which can feel overwhelming as a person ages. 

Explore the ways that you can include exercise in your daily routine and encourage the older loved ones in your life to do the same. CarePatrol understands the importance of doing all you can to live your best life, at any age. Our senior care advisors are here to help find the best senior care solutions, matched to desires, location, health needs and so much more. 

Life changes like losing a loved one, changing dynamics with children, retirement, relocation,  and health challenges can impact older loved ones in numerous ways. Depression, loneliness, uncertainty for the future, grief and social isolation can change the perspective of anyone who is aging.  

Would you notice the symptoms of mental health changes in an older loved one? There are some signs to look for, including: 

• Hopelessness or sadness 
• Changes in energy level, mood or appetite
• Inability to concentrate
• Being restless or on edge
• Challenges in sleeping or sleeping too much
• Increased levels of worry or stress
• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behaviors 
• Seeing, hearing or feeling things that others aren’t experiencing
• An uptick in headaches, pain or digestive issues  
• Engaging in high risk behaviors 

You may have concerns about the mental health of a loved one. May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, the ideal opportunity to start a discussion, especially if you’ve witnessed any behavior that causes worry. It may be beneficial to involve your loved one’s doctor.  

Another way to help is by assisting your loved one in building stronger social connections, which can help mitigate loneliness and depression.  Meaningful social activities are linked to greater life satisfaction and a boost in positive mental health. Learning something new is one way to establish new social connections. Joining a group activity can make a big difference in expanding their group of friends who have similar passions and interests. For older adults who are tech savvy, having the ability to FaceTime or Skype with relatives who may live at a distance can be a fantastic way to connect, especially if travel or mobility is challenging. 

As an industry-leader in senior care solutions for over 3 decades, CarePatrol knows the power of aging with the right support. Whether a loved one is being discharged from a hospital, care setting or if a change in health requires new living arrangements, our 3-step process ensures safety, quality and peace of mind. Our services are available at no cost to the families we work with. We would love to help you navigate senior care. 

Over half of adults over 50 have at least one pet, so the joys of having a cat or dog in your life is probably not news to you. But the health benefits, especially for older adults, may surprise you.  Pets provide social and emotional support, including reducing loneliness and reducing stress. Even older adults who do not currently have a pet can be helped by animal assisted activities and therapy since interacting with animals is powerful. 

The bond between animals and humans is associated with wellness benefits like:

• Added opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
• Additional chances for social interaction
• Increased cognitive function in older adults 
• Decreased blood pressure 
• Lowered stress levels and a decrease in stress-related ailments
• Lowered cholesterol and triglyceride levels 
• Decreases in anxiety, depression and symptoms of PTSD 
• Reduced loneliness and isolation

Animals play a major role in grounding us and giving us an outlet for stress, especially through pet therapy. A holistic way to enhance our overall wellness, pet therapy can encompass any of the following types of interaction:  

• Animal-assisted physical therapy: dogs work alongside an older adult during PT as support. 
• Animal-assisted psychotherapy: animals ease the anxiety of patients.
• Emotional support animals: a pet who helps improve well being, combatting anxiety or loneliness. 
• Therapy animal visits: therapy animals who visit residents of senior living communities, hospitals and even at home to offer support and give affection. 
• Specially trained pets: seizure-alert dogs, guide dogs and other animals are trained for specific functions to help their owners. 

Finding ways to help older adults age comfortably takes many forms. Animals provide so many ways to help both physically and mentally, so incorporating some quality time with our furry friends is always time well spent! CarePatrol is here to help older adults navigate aging and find the right senior care solutions for them. How can we help you? 

The National Institute on Aging reports that adults can function optimally on 7-9 hours each night, regardless of age.  So why do older adults find getting a good night’s sleep more challenging?  Health concerns, chronic pain, or even prescribed medicines can impact getting enough sleep.

According to the Sleep Foundation, both the duration and the quality of sleep we experience can change as we age.  Our internal clock, housed in the brain’s hypothalamus, comprises 20,000 cells and forms the suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN.  The SCN is in charge of our circadian rhythms, or the 24-hour daily cycles that govern things like hunger, alertness, and sleepiness. As the SCN deteriorates over time, our circadian rhythm suffers, and so does our sleep. 

Light is a powerful signal for the SCN and is transmitted via our eyes, but older adults may not have sufficient exposure to daylight, especially if they are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and the SCN may not receive enough daylight to function properly. Another factor that can prevent a good night’s sleep is the way that the body produces hormones, like melatonin, which is produced when a person is in a dark environment and aids in regulating circadian rhythms.

Some lifestyle changes can help you find that elusive good night’s sleep.  Consider implementing one or more for a few weeks to see if there is a change:

• Set up your bedroom for success.  Aim for a comfortable temperature. Ensure that your window treatments are helping block out light pollution and any unwanted outside sounds. Adding a white noise machine can provide respite from distractions.
• Establish a sleep schedule and stick to it.  Going to sleep and rising at a given time each day, including weekends, can help.
• Switch your lights to a lower setting in the evening before bed.  Power down electronics, including tablets, cell phones, and your television, an hour before going to sleep as the light from these electronics may be hurting your chance of falling asleep quickly.  Instead, try reading a book chapter or practicing mindful meditation before bedtime.
• Long naps in the evening or late afternoon may prevent you from falling asleep, so take note of regular nap times.
• Avoid large meals that are too close to bedtime, which could keep you awake. Limit your caffeine intake after dinner, as well.

By setting yourself up for a successful night’s sleep, you’ll give yourself the gift of health. Start now and determine best practices for feeling alert and well-rested.

CarePatrol understands that you can live your best life when you feel your best.  As your partner in senior care solutions, we give our clients and their families the information needed to make informed decisions for senior care solutions for yourself, a spouse, or a loved one.  We can match you with the top three solutions, including assisted living, independent living, memory care, nursing homes, and more.  Reach out today. We can help.