Dementia affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide, yet stigma and misconceptions often overshadow their experiences. Organizations like the Dementia Action Alliance (DAA) are paving the way toward greater awareness and community engagement. Here's what we can do to foster understanding and dismantle the stigma around dementia.

Understanding Dementia Stigma

The stigma surrounding dementia often reduces individuals to their diagnosis. According to the DAA's white paper, Living with Dementia: Changing the Status Quo read it here, healthcare practitioners sometimes fail to address the emotional and social dimensions of dementia. Patients report being treated as “stages of disease and deficit,” and the initial diagnosis often carries an implication of helplessness. These societal attitudes isolate individuals, stripping them of their humanity and connection to their community.

Everyday Actions to Combat Stigma

Reducing dementia stigma starts with inclusion and education. Here are some steps anyone can take:

• Include individuals living with dementia in social activities: Invite them for walks, meals, or music sessions to foster belonging.
• Educate yourself and others: Understand the bio-psycho-social-spiritual factors that contribute to well-being.
• Change the narrative: Avoid stigmatizing language and see beyond the diagnosis.

For further insights, visit Alzheimer’s Awareness resources.

Focusing on Well-Being

Well-being for those living with dementia relies on fostering:

• Autonomy, dignity, and choice
• Strengths-based relationships
• Purpose, enjoyment, and belonging

The DAA emphasizes viewing dementia as a disability, not a limitation, encouraging adaptations to support autonomy and a full life. Caregivers, or “care partners,” are integral in creating respectful, balanced relationships. For caregivers looking for resources, explore caregiving tips.

Community and Connection

One of the most impactful ways to support individuals with dementia is to foster community. Online platforms are emerging as vibrant spaces for connection, with individuals sharing their stories and building a sense of global belonging. Follow the Dementia Action Alliance on their website or social media for updates and resources.

Engagement Tips

When interacting with someone living with dementia:

• Be proactive and positive.
• Focus on the person, not just their condition.
• Use trial and error to discover effective communication methods.

As Maya Angelou said, "Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better." Let’s collectively aim to "do better" for those living with dementia.

By promoting understanding and compassion, we can create a society where individuals living with dementia are seen, heard, and valued. To learn more about fostering inclusive support, explore resources from the Dementia Action Alliance and join the movement toward change. Together, we can ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect. #AlzheimersAwareness #DementiaSupport

Five Ways to Help Your Loved One Stay on Track with Medications

Here are five practical strategies to help your loved one manage their daily medications effectively.

1. Keep Medications Organized and Accessible

Designate a specific area in the home for medications that is safe, cool, and dry—preferably a cabinet away from direct sunlight and moisture. This keeps medications preserved and ensures they are easy to locate and access when needed.

2. Maintain an Updated Medication List

Create and regularly update a list of all medications your loved one takes, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Be sure to note the medication name, dosage, and purpose. This list will come in handy during doctor visits or emergencies, ensuring accurate and comprehensive information is available.

3. Understand Potential Medication Interactions

Be aware of potential interactions that can reduce the effectiveness of medications or lead to complications. Always check with a healthcare provider before adding new medications or supplements to the routine. Key interactions to watch out for include:

• Drug-drug interactions: Some medications, when combined, can cause drowsiness or interfere with effectiveness.
• Drug-alcohol interactions: Alcohol can impair how medications work, increasing the risk of falls, memory loss, or coordination problems.
• Drug-food interactions: Certain foods may affect how medications are absorbed by the body.
  
  

4. Set a Clear Medication Schedule

Ensure there’s a clear plan for when and how each medication should be taken. This includes any specific instructions such as taking medications with food or at particular times of the day. A well-defined schedule reduces confusion and the likelihood of missed or extra doses.

5. Conduct Regular Medication Counts

Regularly count medications to confirm doses are being taken as scheduled. This can help detect missed or extra doses early. Weekly or bi-weekly counts work well depending on the complexity of the medication regimen. If you notice any discrepancies, reach out to a healthcare provider before attempting to adjust the dose.

Finding the Right Medication Management System

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for medication management. It's essential to explore different systems and choose what works best for your loved one. Here are some effective options:

• Medication Reminder Apps: For those comfortable with technology, apps like Medisafe and EveryDose offer features like refill reminders and tracking.
• Pill Organizers and Planners: These come in various designs to suit different schedules, making it easier to organize medications by day or time.
• Alarms and Reminders: Simple phone alarms or services like Homewatch Connect can provide automatic reminders to ensure medications are taken on time.
• Pre-Sorted Pill Packs: Many pharmacies offer blister packs, which divide medications into individual doses for each day and time.

Conclusion

Helping a loved one manage their medications doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying organized, keeping an updated medication list, understanding potential interactions, and finding a reliable medication management system, you can ensure that they take their medications safely and effectively. Whether through apps, pill organizers, or pharmacy-prepared blister packs, there are many tools available to make this process easier for both you and your loved one.

Why Do Seniors Experience Loneliness?

According to a 2019 poll by the University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging, 1 in 3 adults aged 50 to 80 report feeling a lack of companionship, and 1 in 4 feel socially isolated. Key causes include:

● Loss of social connections due to the death of a spouse or friends

● Chronic illnesses or mobility challenges

● Cognitive or psychological struggles, such as dementia or depression

Recognizing the signs of loneliness—like changes in mood, poor nutrition, or increased health complaints—can help caregivers address these issues early.

How Can Caregivers Help Combat Loneliness?

Caregivers play a pivotal role in reducing loneliness through meaningful interactions and activities.

1. Foster Social Interaction

Encourage conversations and activities that stimulate mental engagement. This could involve simple activities like playing cards, storytelling, or gardening. For inspiration on engaging activities, visit AARP’s guide to combating loneliness.

2. Encourage Hobbies and Interests

Support seniors in pursuing hobbies, such as art, reading, or volunteering. Caregivers can also facilitate participation in community programs like senior yoga or dance classes. The National Council on Aging provides resources for senior-friendly activities.

3. Connect with Family and Community

Facilitate family visits, video calls, or participation in community events. Apps like Skype or Zoom make connecting easier, even from a distance. For caregivers seeking local events or social opportunities, Eldercare Locator is a helpful tool.

4. Encourage Safe Independence

By enabling seniors to live comfortably at home, caregivers reduce feelings of fear and isolation. For tips on making homes safer, check Caregiver Action Network’s home safety guidelines.

Addressing Emotional Well-being

Caregivers must balance practical care with emotional support. Building trust and encouraging open dialogue helps seniors feel valued. Visit Mental Health America for advice on promoting emotional well-being for older adults.

Conclusion

Loneliness is a growing concern among seniors, but with the help of compassionate caregivers, its effects can be mitigated. Caregivers provide the connection, companionship, and activities seniors need to thrive. By addressing both the emotional and social aspects of care, they enhance not only the senior's well-being but also their quality of life.

For more information on preventing loneliness, visit The Mayo Clinic's guide to combating loneliness in older adults.

Dr. Oz’s Story: A Personal Reminder

TV host and cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Oz shared a poignant story about his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, emphasizing how easy it is to miss the early signs. Despite his medical expertise, he overlooked subtle but telling symptoms such as increased stubbornness, changes in routines, and confusion with time and place. His story highlights the importance of vigilance, particularly as Alzheimer’s symptoms often begin long before memory loss becomes evident.

Early Signs to Watch For:

• Increased stubbornness or unusual behavior
• Changes in routines (e.g., a different way of applying makeup)
• Challenges with planning and organizing
• Difficulty retracing steps to locate misplaced items
• Problems with words and communication
• Confusion with time or place

What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms

If a loved one shows signs of dementia, early detection is crucial. Start with an open conversation and encourage them to visit a healthcare provider. Being present at medical appointments allows you to share observations and support the evaluation process.

Early diagnosis can:

• Prolong independence
• Help your loved one make informed decisions about their care
• Allow families to prepare for the future

The Importance of Family Support

Family plays a vital role in managing Alzheimer’s disease. From offering emotional support to coordinating care, understanding the condition and working together can ease the burden. Resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association and National Institute on Aging offer valuable information and support for caregivers and families.

Additional Resources for Understanding Alzheimer’s

• Dementia Care Dos and Don'ts
• How to Talk to a Loved One About Memory Loss

Dr. Oz’s experience underscores the importance of recognizing subtle changes in behavior and taking action early. By staying vigilant and proactive, families can provide better care, support independence, and navigate this challenging journey together. Don’t wait—trust your instincts and seek professional advice if you suspect a loved one is showing early indicators of dementia.

This holiday season, let’s prioritize health and wellness, especially for our aging family members. Recognizing the signs of dementia early can make all the difference in ensuring a brighter and more supported future.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is a broad term used to describe various cognitive impairments, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common form. Educating yourself and your family is crucial to providing the best care possible for a loved one with dementia. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the different types of dementia, their symptoms, and how the disease progresses. Understanding the challenges your loved one is facing is the first step toward offering the right kind of support. The Alzheimer's Association offers extensive resources for learning about the disease.
• Consult Professionals: Reach out to medical professionals and dementia care organizations. They can provide you with the resources, information, and guidance needed to meet your loved one’s specific care needs. The National Institute on Aging provides valuable information on caregiving.
• Maintain Open Communication: While your loved one may struggle with memory or cognition, emotional connections remain strong. Include them in conversations and decisions to show that they are valued and respected, despite the challenges they face. Effective communication strategies can be found at the Alzheimer's Society.

Ways to Help Your Loved One

Let’s explore some practical ways you can offer support and care for someone living with dementia.

• Create a Safe Environment: Dementia often leads to confusion and disorientation. Ensure that your loved one’s living space is free of hazards by removing potential dangers and using memory aids such as labels, pictures, or color-coded items to help them navigate their environment more easily. The Mayo Clinic provides tips on creating a safe home environment.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can enhance mood and potentially slow the progression of dementia. Activities such as walking, light exercises, and even gardening can be incredibly beneficial for maintaining physical and mental health. According to the National Institute on Aging, exercise is vital for seniors' overall well-being.
• Engage in Stimulating Activities: Help your loved one stay mentally active by involving them in stimulating activities like puzzles, art, music, or reminiscence therapy. Tailoring these activities to their personal interests and hobbies—while adapting the difficulty level—can add a sense of fulfillment and joy to their daily life. Research from the American Music Therapy Association highlights the benefits of music therapy for cognitive health.
• Show Compassion and Support: Above all, remain patient, compassionate, and empathetic. Your loved one may exhibit changes in behavior, but their emotions are still real and valid. Providing steady, compassionate care can make all the difference in helping them live with dignity.

Taking Care of Yourself

Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding. It's important to take care of your own health as well. The Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Center offers resources to help caregivers manage stress and find support.

Taking Action During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is more than a call to raise awareness—it’s an invitation to take action. By educating yourself, making your loved one’s environment safer, and providing emotional and practical support, you can significantly improve their quality of life. The love and care you offer will help them face the challenges of dementia with grace and dignity.

Consider participating in events like the Walk to End Alzheimer's to support research and connect with others in the community. Your involvement can make a meaningful difference in the fight against this disease.

Take the Time to Listen

Listening to veterans’ stories of bravery, friendship, and resilience offers them a chance to share cherished memories. Connecting with veterans—whether family members, friends, or community members—can make a significant difference. For more on the importance of listening and connecting with veterans, explore the Veterans Crisis Line for guidance on meaningful interactions with veterans facing challenges.

Create a Memory Scrapbook

A memory scrapbook can be a treasured gift that highlights a veteran’s journey and the lives they’ve touched. Gathering photos, letters, and stories can create a tangible tribute to their legacy. The Library of Congress Veterans History Project is an excellent resource for capturing and preserving veterans' stories, offering guidelines on how to honor and document their experiences.

Host a Veterans Day Celebration

A Veterans Day event provides a space for community recognition. Simple activities like music, games, and a short ceremony help veterans feel valued. Hosting such events can be especially meaningful for those in assisted living. Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Programs provide support and ideas for organizing community-based celebrations for veterans.

Send a Care Package

Care packages filled with practical and personalized items can bring warmth and comfort to veterans. Items like toiletries, snacks, and warm clothing, along with personal notes, show genuine care. Learn more about assembling thoughtful care packages through the Operation Gratitude organization, which provides guidance on impactful packages for veterans.

Offer Help with Home Care

Supporting veterans who need home care assistance shows our respect for their service. Help with medical appointments or daily tasks can significantly enhance their quality of life. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers extensive information on healthcare programs tailored to veterans' unique needs, making it easier to connect them with the right services.

Honoring veterans goes beyond a single day. Listening to their stories, creating keepsakes, hosting celebrations, sending care packages, or helping with home care are all ways to show veterans they are valued. Let’s celebrate and support them on Veterans Day and every day. For more resources on how to support veterans, visit the Veterans Affairs (VA) website for information on additional services, programs, and ways to get involved in veterans’ lives.

Common Causes of Vision Loss in Seniors

Vision loss can stem from various age-related conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome. These conditions often require medical support and lifestyle adjustments. For more details on these, the National Eye Institute offers a range of resources on age-related eye health issues.

Adapting to Vision Loss with Assistive Tools and Home Modifications

Living with vision impairment often means adjusting routines and environments. Organizations like the American Foundation for the Blind provide resources on how to enhance accessibility in daily life, from transportation tips to technology tools. Simple home modifications can also help. Improving lighting, eliminating tripping hazards, and adding assistive devices can increase safety and comfort at home. For those considering structural modifications, the Carroll Center for the Blind has practical resources and guides for individuals and caregivers.

Community Resources and Vision Loss Support

Community support is vital for maintaining connection and independence. The American Academy of Ophthalmology shares valuable eye health tips, covering everything from preventive care to adaptive devices like magnifiers or mobility aids. Engaging with local vision loss support groups can provide emotional support and practical advice for managing daily activities. Additionally, many eye health specialists offer low-vision services to improve day-to-day function.

Conclusion

Vision loss doesn’t have to mean losing independence. With proactive care, including medical support, home modifications, and reliable assistive resources, those affected by vision impairment can continue to live full, active lives. The resources available can ensure a safe, supportive environment where seniors feel empowered to thrive despite challenges in vision health.

Making Homes Safer for Seniors

Aging in place requires modifications that support both senior safety and independence. Simple adjustments, like grab bars and better lighting, can make a substantial difference. For example, Age Safe America suggests focusing on fall prevention strategies, particularly in high-risk areas like bathrooms and staircases. CDC highlights that falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, further emphasizing the importance of home modifications.

Room-by-Room Changes for Aging in Place

• Kitchen: Improving lighting and ensuring easy access to essential items can reduce hazards in the kitchen. NIH advises considering appliance updates to avoid accidental burns and falls.
• Bathroom: Bathrooms present a high risk for falls. Installing non-slip mats, grab bars, and adjustable water temperature controls can make this room safer.
• Staircase: Stairs should have secure handrails and adequate lighting to prevent accidents. Learn more from National Institute on Aging about how to reduce fall risks at home.
• Entryway: Keep entryways clear and well-lit to ensure a smooth transition from outside. Additional tips can be found in HUD’s guide on accessible design.
• Bedroom: Ensure safe, easy access with nightlights and clear pathways to the bathroom, enhancing nighttime safety.

Supporting Independence with Modifications

Every modification aims to support seniors' independence. Embracing a proactive approach to home safety ensures that our elderly loved ones can age in place with dignity. To explore more ideas, SeniorLiving.org offers valuable insights on home safety tips for the elderly.

Elderspeak is a communication style used with older adults that can come across as patronizing or infantilizing. It often involves a singsong tone, exaggerated slowness, and terms like “sweetie” or “dear.” Though often meant to be comforting, elderspeak can strip seniors of their dignity and autonomy, making them feel belittled.

The Impact of Elderspeak

Elderspeak diminishes an older adult’s self-confidence and sense of independence. It assumes they need to be spoken to like children, which can lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, and even social withdrawal. This is especially prevalent in healthcare or caregiving settings where seniors may already feel vulnerable.

When seniors are treated as equals in conversation, it improves their sense of respect and value. Using patronizing language, even with the best of intentions, undermines their dignity and the person’s ability to feel in control of their life.

How to Communicate Respectfully

To avoid elderspeak, focus on clear, respectful, and compassionate communication:

1. Speak in a Normal Tone: Avoid using a high-pitched or singsong voice. Speak naturally and clearly, without unnecessary repetition or slowness.
2. Maintain Eye Contact: This ensures that the conversation feels personal and attentive, allowing the person to pick up on visual cues if needed.
3. Be Patient and Respectful: Give the senior time to respond without rushing or interrupting. This allows them to feel valued in the conversation.
4. Avoid Infantilizing Language: Terms like “sweetie” or “dear” can feel demeaning. Instead, address them by their name, just as you would any other adult.
5. Listen Actively: Engage in the conversation with empathy and interest. This shows that you respect their thoughts and opinions, further avoiding a condescending tone.

Why Respectful Communication Matters

Speaking to seniors respectfully isn’t just about language—it’s about preserving their dignity and independence. When you communicate as equals, you promote confidence and encourage older adults to remain active participants in their own lives. This can lead to stronger relationships, a better quality of life, and fewer feelings of isolation or helplessness.

In contrast, elderspeak can unintentionally create emotional barriers. It diminishes an older adult’s sense of worth, potentially leading them to withdraw socially or become more dependent than necessary. This is why it’s so important to foster clear and respectful communication at all times, especially when caregiving.

Conclusion

Avoiding elderspeak is essential in maintaining the dignity and well-being of older adults. By using respectful language, exercising patience, and engaging in meaningful conversations, you help ensure that seniors feel valued, respected, and empowered. Communication that recognizes the person’s full humanity enhances both their emotional well-being and the quality of the relationship you share with them.

Story of an Elderly Scam Victim

Ayesha Prakash shared her mother’s heartbreaking experience of losing $4,800 to a scammer. The fraudster claimed her late husband owed the IRS, threatening jail if she informed anyone. Sadly, her mother fell for the scam, wired the money, and felt devastated not only by the financial loss but by her sense of helplessness.

Types of Scams to Watch For

Fraudsters use many strategies to take advantage of the elderly. Some impersonate government agencies like the IRS or Social Security, while others pose as distant relatives or lonely individuals in need of financial help. Romance scams, prize giveaways, and fake charities are also common tactics. Many scammers exploit loneliness or a desire to help others, which makes seniors more susceptible to falling for these tricks.

Preventing Scams Against Seniors

To protect your elderly loved ones, encourage them to share any suspicious calls or messages they receive. Discuss the risks without making them feel embarrassed. Simple measures like monitoring financial accounts, avoiding sharing personal information over the phone, and knowing that organizations like the IRS will never call asking for immediate payment can make a significant difference. Education and open communication are the best defenses against these scams.

Scams in Times of Crisis

During tragic events like natural disasters or the COVID-19 pandemic, scams tend to spike. Fake products promising cures, fraudulent charities, and impostors claiming to represent government agencies are just a few examples of schemes that surface during crises. Scammers prey on fear and confusion, making it essential to stay alert during such times.

Taking Action Against Scammers

If you or a loved one falls victim to a scam, contact local authorities, your bank, or credit card company immediately. Reporting the crime can not only help recover lost funds but also prevent the scammer from targeting others. It's crucial to remember that shame or fear should never stop someone from speaking up. The more information shared, the better we can protect vulnerable seniors from future scams.

  October 10 is World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental well-being and advocating for the importance of mental health as a fundamental human right. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the mental health challenges caregivers face and explore ways to manage stress effectively. Caregiving, while rewarding, can take a toll on mental health, and it’s crucial for caregivers to prioritize their own well-being.

Understanding Stress and Its Impact

Everyone encounters stress in some form, but what exactly is stress? It’s the body's response to any demand or change, and it can manifest in both positive and negative ways. Stress can be caused by both physical and emotional factors. For caregivers, stress is a common concern, often stemming from the emotional demands of caring for a loved one or the physical challenges of balancing caregiving with other responsibilities.

According to a study by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, caregiving can significantly impact personal well-being. Approximately 35% of family caregivers report difficulty finding personal time, 29% struggle with emotional and physical stress, and 35% have challenges managing work and family life. These numbers underscore the importance of addressing stress to maintain both mental and physical health.

What Causes Stress?

Stress can stem from a wide variety of sources. It can be triggered by negative experiences, such as worrying about a loved one’s illness, or even from positive life events, like a family wedding or the birth of a grandchild. The body’s stress response activates when it perceives a challenge, which can lead to physical reactions such as quickened pulse, rapid breathing, tense muscles, and increased brain activity.

While short bursts of stress can help us react to immediate challenges, chronic stress can lead to health problems. Over time, prolonged stress may weaken the immune system, cause digestive problems, and disrupt sleep. It can also manifest as headaches, tension in the neck and shoulders, forgetfulness, or increased anxiety and irritability.

Strategies for Managing Caregiver Stress

The first step in managing stress is recognizing its presence and understanding what is triggering it. Once you identify stressors, you can begin to implement strategies to alleviate them. Here are some simple yet effective methods caregivers can use to reduce stress, many of which can be done alone or with the person they care for.

1. Take Regular Walks

Walking has been proven to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Just a short 10-minute walk can lower cortisol levels—the hormone linked to stress—and release endorphins, which help you feel more relaxed. Consider taking walks with the person you care for to turn this activity into a shared moment of calm and connection.

2. Enjoy a 15-Minute Nap

Sleep deprivation can exacerbate stress, making it harder to cope with daily challenges. While a full night's sleep might not always be possible, a short nap can help recharge your energy, restore hormone balance, and improve your mood. Even a quick 15-minute nap can provide much-needed mental and physical rest.

3. Set Aside Time for Meditation or Prayer

Quieting the mind through meditation or prayer is an excellent way to reduce stress. Studies show that these practices can help you gain perspective, reduce negative emotions, and increase mindfulness. Meditation doesn’t require special equipment or a dedicated space—just a few minutes of focused breathing or reflective thought can make a difference in your mental health.

4. Connect with Family and Friends

Social connections play a vital role in managing stress. Spending time with loved ones and talking through your challenges can alleviate the emotional burden of caregiving. Sharing your experiences, receiving support, and simply enjoying the company of others can lift your spirits and reduce feelings of isolation.

5. Sing Your Favorite Songs

Singing is a simple but powerful stress-reliever. It triggers the release of endorphins and oxytocin, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being. Singing also boosts your immune response, helping your body fight off illness. Whether you're belting out your favorite tunes in the car or humming softly at home, singing is an easy way to relax and de-stress.

6. Don’t Skip Meals

Maintaining regular meals and a balanced diet is essential for managing stress. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, leading to increased stress and irritability. Snack on foods rich in omega-3 fats, like walnuts, which are known to reduce stress. For a calming drink, try peppermint herbal tea—its soothing properties can relax muscles, calm your stomach, and ease tension.

Conclusion

Caregiving is a deeply meaningful role, but it can also bring significant stress. Managing this stress is vital not only for the caregiver’s well-being but also for the quality of care they can provide. Taking small, intentional steps like going for walks, napping, connecting with others, or practicing mindfulness can make a big difference in mental health. When stress becomes overwhelming, caregivers should seek help from others, whether through family support, professional caregivers, or joining a caregiver support group. Ultimately, taking care of your mental health is just as important as the care you provide for your loved one.

ACASA North Shore is the newest ACASA Senior Care location.  

Website coming soon! 

For employment opportunities or more information, please contact Randy Rantz below. 

Randy Rantz
Owner, North Shore ACASA
A 100 S. Saunders Road, Suite 150, Lake Forest Illinois 60045
O 847.961.2288 M 847.922.6898 E Randy@NorthShoreACASA.com W ACASAusa.com

ACASA Senior Care is excited to announce the newest member of our team. 

ACASA Glendale, run by a military family, who knows what it means to serve their community and still provide a home touch to both veterans and nonveterans in the Glendale Arizona area. 

New website coming soon. 

For more information, please contact: 

Renee Hernandez

ACASA Senior Care of Glendale

Director of Operations

Ph: 623-292-2272

It's the  realization you are about to embark on trying to convince them that making modifications to their living arrangements will in fact, be beneficial to them. You worry that introducing them to ideas that can help reduce the risk of a fall may actually ‘trigger’ them into feelings of helplessness.  In your mind, that recommendation of a walker, bathroom grab bar, or not having area rugs as decorations really isn’t that big of a deal.  You know that your parent needs help.  So, what can you do? The first step is to try to gain perspective and a true understanding of what your loved one is going through.

For many seniors, one of the most devastating parts of growing older is facing a loss of independence. One survey found that more seniors fear losing their independence than actually dying.  Losing the ability to do daily tasks like bathing and cooking independently can cause sadness, despair, anger, worry, shame and embarrassment. They have been the providers and care takers for many years, and now to see these roles and responsibilities being removed can be another life altering experience. The roles being shifted to the very family members they used to support, can be a very humbling and difficult experience.   

So, why is the loss of independence so devastating for seniors?  Part of it has to do with our cultural values.  In the United States, independence is a primary value that begins in our teen years, with learning to drive a car.  The sense of independence from that simple milestone is something that resonates with all of us. Getting our first job and eventually moving out are subsequent milestones that are accomplished as we acquire more independence.  As we begin to age, the milestones that are being hit are in fact the removal of those very independent activities from our daily life.  Coming face-to- face with these losses that are so integral to our identity, can produce grief, as well as other difficult emotions.

How Can Family Members Help?

What can you do to get your loved one help? It’s important to know that more than 95 percent of people aged 65 and above want to remain at home as they age.  Having this knowledge and maintaining open communication is a key factor.  Having honest conversations about the struggles they face and understanding their hesitation is key.  By acknowledging their struggles, you may be able to come to an agreement that can include easing some help into their daily routine. Your loved one may need help with things like getting to and from appointments, preparing meals, and taking medications.   If you or another family member is able to help them meal prep for the week, or sort their medications, and maybe take them to a Dr.’s appointment now and then, this can help ease the transition process. Making it fun and re-engaging with them also helps them erase the myth that just because they are unable to do one task, they are on a one way street to an assisted living facility.  Communicating to them that as long as they receive some degree of support they can remain in their home safely should help them become more comfortable with the idea of accepting help.  Even with early signs of dementia or other cognitive challenges, remaining in their own home can still be an option. 

If you are unable to be actively involved in the daily activities, you can consider in-home care. 

In-home care can help your loved one age safely in place at home. It can also provide you with peace -of –mind knowing that your loved one has the help that they need.  ACASA Senior Care provides services like:

• Medication reminders
• Transportation to appointments
• Dressing and grooming assistance
• Light housekeeping
• Cooking and meal preparation
• Toileting
• Respite care

We provide Alzheimer’s and Dementia care at home, as well as hospice care.  In-home care is ideal for seniors who want to remain at home – and, it’s ideal for family members too.  You’ll rest assured knowing that your loved one is getting the help that they need.  Contact ACASA Senior Care for more information.