Grandparents are the center of the universe. The ultimate in fun, grandparents are the adults who grant wishes, have an abundance of hugs to share, are wise, kind and make the world a better place. Growing up, children cherish the relationship with their grandparents, no matter what they may call them: gramma, pop pop, glam-ma or nonno.  But did you know that Grandparents’ Day falls in September?  This year, we celebrate on September 8th. 

Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of our favorite grandparents in pop culture:

Sophia Petrillo (The Golden Girls):  The beloved actress Estelle Getty brought Sophia to life in such a vibrant, beautiful way.  Sweet and wise-cracking, Sophia always had a witty response to any situation that she encountered! 

Grandma Rosie (The Wedding Singer):  A classic Adam Sandler film gave us the wonderful character Grandma Rosie, portrayed by Ellen Albertini Dow, who was 85 at the time of filming.  This grandmother not only encourages Sandler to pursue Drew Barrymore’s character, but gives singing lessons including her own version of “Rapper’s Delight.” In a twist of irony, Dow was married for 53 years but never had kids so she was not a grandma in real life. 

Earl “Pops” and Ruby Johnson (Black-ish): We are treated to the megawatt talents of Laurence Fishburne and Jenifer Lewis as divorced grandparents who find their way back to each other and marry again in this sitcom that tells the story of three generations of the Johnson family.  

Connie Tucker (Young Sheldon) : Brought to life by the talented Annie Potts, this delightful grandma from the 1980s in Texas is sharp, sassy and will do anything to help her family and her grandkids. 

Grandpa Joe (Willy Wonka the the Chocolate Factory / Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) : Created by Roald Dahl in his book, we’ve been lucky enough to see this iconic patriarch of the family played by both Jack Albertson in the original version of the film and later by David Kelly. There’s no sweeter grandparent than Grandpa Joe! 

Though these grandparents have had an effect on our lives, there’s nothing like the impact that our own grandparents have made. If you are lucky enough to be able to connect with a grandparent, reach out on Grandparents’ Day to share a smile, hug or to talk about your favorite times together. There’s no better gift than that! 

CarePatrol celebrates the power of grandparents in our lives to change the world. It is our honor to help families match their loved ones with senior care solutions tailored to meet their needs.  Peace of mind is priceless. 

• 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.

In 2020, approximately 14.7 million older adults lived alone, or 28% of the population; many of them were lonely or in poor health. While it is not always easy to control those factors, there are things you can do to help age better and more comfortably. By being prepared, you will reduce some of your health risks and may be able to stay independent and content with life well into your later years. 

Here are nine critical, independent living skills you will need and valuable information on when assisted living or a similar care option may be a better choice. 

1. Money Management – One of the most important independent living skills is money management. Anyone, from young adults to seniors, who want to live independently should be able to manage their funds. This can include the ability to pay bills, go grocery shopping, and handle personal care purchases regularly. 
2. Nutrition and Cooking – Many seniors who struggle to live independently do not eat well, which can lead to increased health problems and medical care costs. With the right preparation, you can have the knowledge and ability to prepare healthier meals.
3. Fitness and Movement Ability – Staying active is another essential independent living skill. Staying active, whether or not you have disabilities to work around, is vital and can reduce your risk of injury. Strength training and movement practice, such as yoga, will help maintain strength, keeping you from losing balance and falling. 
4. Willingness and Ability to Adapt – Families need to help aging members where possible, but not everyone has family nearby to teach them about technology updates or other helpful improvements.Being willing to adapt and learn will help with any new transitions that occur in the future.  For example, you may want a part-time job or return to school to keep your mind sharp and stay active and engaged in your community. 
5. Effective Communication – Communicating effectively is vital in every stage of life, and as a senior, you need to not be afraid to speak up for yourself. Whether you need help with your budget, have a problem with your teeth, or recognize that you are having trouble doing something you used to do easily, you must be able to communicate well so others can help you when you need it.  
6. Self-Advocacy for Security – Along with good general communication, it’s valuable for you to be your own advocate. You know your body best, so work with your doctor if you notice a change and take advantage of any resources offered to you. When you prepare for aging and focus on the transition, you can often develop independent living skills more quickly. 
7.  Stress Management and Regulation – Controlling stress is a valuable skill at any age because stress can hurt your health. Older adults who struggle the most with independent living tend not to have ways of regulating their stress and emotions. If you have a job you like, hobbies to enjoy, or other ways to keep stress at bay, it will go a long way to keep you happy and healthy.  
8.  Self-Esteem or Contentment – Feeling content in life or comfortable with yourself matters, too, because independent living requires good mental health. If you are anxious or depressed, it can be a lot harder to get through the day all by yourself. Personal care may suffer, tasks will not get done, and your budget could suffer, too.  
9.  Transportation Skills – Whether you drive a car or use public transportation, the goal is to ensure you have access to the people and services you need to get around. If you start to notice differences in your vision and cannot drive anymore, for example, you want to make sure you have other people or agencies you can contact to help you get around. 

Top 3 Reasons to Consider Caregivers or Assisted Living 

If you or a loved one lacks the independent living skills needed to age-in-place, or remain safely and independently at home, it may be time to consider help. This could include ongoing assistance with specific tasks, options to manage medical care, and even help with laundry, hygiene, or picking out and putting on clothes. 

When older adults struggle with food, basic activities of daily living, or other issues, it is essential to identify the problem and find the right ways to treat it. Whether that is someone who comes into your home and provides in-home care or you are considering a move to an assisted living community, making the right choice can improve your quality of life. 

Here are three reasons to consider an alternate option to independent living: 

1. Falling or Frequent Injuries – Falling can cause significant injuries, and that is especially true in seniors. If you are starting to fall frequently or have other injuries that happen often, it may be time to find additional help and someone who can perform various tasks, such as making meals and keeping your home clean. Falls and injuries could also mean the need to transition to assisted living so you do not have to worry about taking care of your house.  
2.  Challenges With Hygiene, Food, and Care – Eating, showering, and cleaning are essential ADLs, and when you start facing many difficulties in one or more of these areas, it is time for some help. Fortunately, there are resources for older adults who may need a service to come in, so you are getting healthy food and staying clean. 
3.  Memory or Financial Concerns – If you begin having trouble remembering things and struggling to manage bills, it may be time to reach out for support. Many seniors are also vulnerable to financial scams, which can cause serious problems for future security. It’s not always easy to see your needs in these areas—or admit the need—but assessing your life routinely and looking for areas that might put you at risk is essential.  

The Support You Need for Living Independently 

If you or a loved one wants to continue living independently but may need a little extra help, CarePatrol offers senior care advisory services at no cost to you.  

We provide senior care solutions to help you find the right community  From the option to maintain independent living to the need for additional services at home or in a care community, we’re here to give you the information and support you need. 

Reach out to a local senior care advisor today. 

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. 

CarePatrol Senior Care Advisors change lives each and every day. Here’s how: 

Advocacy:  Your Senior Care Advisor steps in on behalf of your family to address concerns and facilitate resolutions. You aren’t alone in the process of navigating senior care. 

Specialized Knowledge: Their deep understanding of every type of community will give you the answers you need to make an informed decision. 

Extensive Evaluations:  The CarePatrol three step discovery process allows advisors to match your loved one with the level of care they need and the type of community that will allow them to thrive.

Customized Support:  By getting to know your family and loved one, especially their preferences and needs, it is possible to find the best senior care options specifically for them. A three step discovery process is an effective way to match your loved one with the right care solutions. 

Setting Up Visits:  They schedule visits and accompany families on tours. Have questions about a community, pricing, or other aspects of senior care? They’ll make sure you get the answers you need to make a decision that is right for your loved one. 

Long-Term Guidance:  They are part of your loved one’s care team and stay in touch with you. If your loved one’s care needs change, your advisor can help find the right solution in the future. 

Professional Referrals:  As experts in aging, CarePatrol rigorously vets our professional partners and can recommend senior move managers, elder law attorneys, hospice agencies, senior real estate specialists, and more.  

CarePatrol is your trusted partner. We’ve been giving families peace of mind for over 30 years. Our services are at no cost to you. Reach out today and become part of the CarePatrol family. 

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.

A guardianship involves court-appointed authority over an incapacitated person’s affairs, with broader and ongoing responsibilities and oversight. The power of attorney allows a competent person to give another person broad authority over their senior care options and other affairs without court involvement. 

When weighing guardianship vs power of attorney, it is essential to understand the differences and similarities between them. This article provides a broad overview; please consult an elder law attorney for your specific scenario.  

What is Guardianship? 

A guardianship is a legal arrangement in which a court appoints someone to make decisions for another person. This occurs only when a person becomes incapacitated due to disability, age, or another form of incapacity.   

The purpose of guardianship is to protect the best interests of the person, who then is considered a ward. Guardianship proceedings are held in court, and the guardian is appointed to serve the ward’s needs.  

Not all guardianships are the same. Like powers of attorney, there are several types, including: 

• Guardian of the person: This person makes all decisions on behalf of the ward, including living arrangements, health decisions, and financial decisions. 

• Guardian of the estate: Also known as a conservator, this person handles all financial decisions on behalf of the ward, including property, income, and expenses. 
• Plenary guardian: The appointee handles daily and financial business for the ward. 
• Limited guardianship: This person handles a specific area of responsibility for the ward. 

Guardianship is often a last resort when other less restrictive options are insufficient to protect an individual’s interests. It is a significant legal responsibility, with the guardian expected to act with the highest level of integrity and care.

What is a Power of Attorney? 

A power of attorney, or POA, allows a person to act in another person’s stead. Depending on the scope of a power of attorney, the person named may be able to make health, financial, and any other decisions as per the terms

There are several types of powers of attorney, including

• General power of attorney: Allows the appointee numerous powers depending on the terms of the POA. 
• Special or limited power of attorney: Has a specific purpose and is often used for property transfers or sales. 
• Durable power of attorney: Designed to extend automatically should the maker become incapacitated. The terms of these POAs are generally broad. 
• Nondurable power of attorney: Expires immediately if the maker becomes incapacitated. 
• Springing power of attorney: Takes effect upon a specific event, such as when the maker of the POA becomes incapacitated. 

It is important to remember that the maker may revoke any power of attorney at any time, although some may have a time limit. Additionally, all POAs expire when the maker of the agreement dies.  

What is Incapacity for Guardianship Purposes? 

A guardian may be appointed when a person cannot manage their activities of daily living, such as personal care, property, or finances.  

 A guardianship may occur when the subject of the guardianship petition is a minor or is suffering from a mental illness, physical incapacitation, or a senior with declining cognitive abilities

Someone who wants to seek guardianship must file a petition with the court. If approved, the guardian must agree to court oversight throughout the guardianship. The guardian must also demonstrate that the allegedly incapacitated person cannot manage his or her own financial matters, legal affairs, or personal care

Does a Durable Power of Attorney Help Prevent Guardianship? 

A durable power of attorney is a legal document you can use as a proactive measure. It can prevent the need for guardianship, assuming the person could execute the power of attorney before becoming incapacitated.  

In some cases, a power of attorney may only cover the principal’s financial affairs, while in other cases, it can help avoid guardianship proceedings

Keep in mind that the person executing a durable power of attorney can designate a trusted individual to make decisions on his or her behalf should the person become incapacitated. Powers of attorney may allow the person appointed to make health, legal, and financial decisions on behalf of the principal.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Guardianship 

One of the most significant disadvantages of guardianship is a loss of autonomy. Wards may lose the right to make many personal decisions, including where to live. You must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of guardianship carefully to ensure the ward retains dignity

Another disadvantage is loss of privacy since guardianship proceedings are often a matter of public record. While there can be potential for abuse of authority, guardianships are complicated. There are reporting requirements and numerous legal steps that one must complete

Some of the advantages of guardianship include ensuring the well-being and safety of the ward. Additionally, this step can help prevent financial exploitation because a trusted person manages finances on behalf of the ward rather than another entity or the state assuming control.

Guardians also serve as advocates for their wards, ensuring they receive proper medical care, educational opportunities, and other essential services. The guardian is also regularly present in the ward’s life, providing stability and more predictable outcomes.

Deciding Between Guardianship and Power of Attorney 

A guardianship proceeding can be complex and difficult under the best of circumstances and should only be implemented when there is no better alternative. You can often avoid seeking guardianship through the courts by creating a power of attorney as a piece of an overall estate plan.
 Every family is different, but ensuring your family member’s physical and emotional well-being is essential to us all.  

How CarePatrol Can Help 

If your loved one needs senior care solutions, whether assisted living,  nursing home, or another type of senior living environment, CarePatrol is here to help. Our local senior care advisors will meet with you to help you navigate the best senior care options for your loved one and even take you on personalized tours of the top three communities.  

The best part is that our service is provided at no cost to you. Contact a local senior living care near you to get started. 

Many people dream of retirement, longing for leisurely days of relaxing and picking up old hobbies that fell by the wayside when life got in the way. But aging comes with an ever-increasing level of stress stemming from health concerns, mobility challenges, changing social circles and things like downsizing a family home, moving to a new city to be near family or the loss of a spouse. Handling routine tasks like mowing the lawn or going food shopping can feel overwhelming for an older adult. 

For many older adults, the option of senior community living can provide a way to alleviate daily stress with services, socialization and amenities designed to make the lives of residents easier. 

How can you tell if an older loved one is experiencing an elevated level of stress? There are some specific signs to be on the lookout for, including: 

• Isolation 
• Mood changes like anger, irritability or sadness 
• Making bad choices 
• Lack of energy
• Inability to concentrate 
• Weight loss or gain brought on by changes in eating habits 
• Poor personal hygiene and self care 
• Sleeping challenges 
• Frequent illness or more aches and pains 

Considering senior living communities can help reduce daily stress for older adults. One way is by increasing their sociability. With nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older considered to be socially isolated, this is a major concern for family members. Regular social events as well as activities of interest that residents can participate in are an important part of community living. Being among peers who have lived through similar situations and have shared experiences is a powerful way to forge bonds and begin new friendships. 

Another benefit to senior community living is the lack of maintenance that a house can require.  Taking away the worry that older adults have in running a home is an enormous emotional, financial and physical relief. Eliminating the worry of cleaning gutters, shoveling snow or mowing the lawn is freeing.  

Senior communities give residents an all-inclusive experience for daily living. Amenities like laundry service, hairstyling salons, cafes, gyms, libraries and even movie theaters on site make day to day living more enjoyable and less stressful. Think of an all-inclusive resort where residents can take advantage of amenities on site rather than having to leave to accomplish the things they would like to do. 

At CarePatrol, we make it our business to know the communities we recommend, inside and out. We vet the communities that we talk to a family about, ensuring that they are the right fit for your loved one. Our goal is to minimize the stress a family experiences when a change of residence is necessary for a loved one. Based on data and the preferences of your loved one, we find the right matches for your family. By setting up and taking you on tours of senior living solutions, we can make sure you feel empowered with information to make an informed decision. CarePatrol local senior care advisors even help make move-in day less stressful for everyone. Best of all, our services are available at no cost to you or your family.

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? 

According to Psychology Today, guilt is felt for a variety of reasons, but generally fits into one of five categories, including:

• Guilt over something that you did
• Guilt for something you didn’t do, but want to
• Guilt over something that you think you did
• Guilt that you didn’t do enough to help someone else
• Guilt that you’re doing better than someone else

A major source of guilt for adult children is the sense of not being able to prevent the pain and discomfort that their aging parents are facing. Especially as a parent encounters life altering obstacles like health challenges, retirement, downsizing a family home or the loss of a spouse, adult children can offer love but are powerless to protect them from going through these stressful situations. This is compounded for family caregivers who fall into the sandwich generation, stretched thin by the responsibilities of supporting both parents dealing with aging challenges as well as children who need their guidance. Knowing that helping to relocate a parent to a senior community to address their changing needs can intellectually be the right thing to do, but many people still struggle with feelings of guilt or shame.  

Guilt can occur when a person feels that they’re falling short of the expectations of other people as well as the sense of not meeting the elevated standards we set for ourselves. Trying to achieve things that we feel we should do can be overwhelming and guilt inducing. We may feel like we’ve failed as a family caregiver as a parent’s health needs become more than we can handle. The role reversal of making decisions on their behalf feels awkward and adult children may have a difficult time even bringing up the conversation about considering senior options. 

How can you tackle this daunting situation while dealing with feelings of guilt? The first step is to acknowledge the feelings that have come up for you as you seek guidance for senior solutions. It is normal to feel conflicted and guilty.  You’re not alone in these feelings.  

Have an honest and gentle conversation with your parent. They may be having concerns about their own safety that they are hesitant to bring up to you. Listen to their thoughts, honor their feelings and make sure that you lead with empathy. An open dialogue about fears as well as the excitement that a new start can bring is powerful. Change can be hard but the results can provide peace of mind for your parents as well as the rest of your family. 

Researching senior solutions will empower you and your family to make educated decisions.  By working with a local senior care advisor from CarePatrol, you will feel confident in understanding the level of care that your parent or loved one needs. Through the CarePatrol discovery process, you will have the right options tailored for your family member. Your local senior care advisor will set up tours of the right communities, accompany your family on these visits to ensure that your questions are answered and help you through the process. CarePatrol makes move-in day less stressful and will be a part of your loved one’s care team in the future, especially if their needs change. There is no cost to you or your family for these valuable services. Reach out today and rest easy tonight. 

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.