Here’s What Family Caregivers Say They Need

An older woman looks stoically ahead while a younger woman, who knows what caregivers say they need, stands blurred behind her.
An older woman looks stoically ahead while a younger woman, who knows what caregivers say they need, stands blurred behind her.
If you’re wondering what caregivers say they need, we have the fascinating details here!

If you’ve ever felt invisible as a family caregiver, you’re not alone. Caring for someone you love takes center stage, and you may find that your own needs are put on the back burner. A recent listening session, however, allowed us to find out firsthand what family caregivers say they need – and their feedback may surprise you. Here are some of the key findings and insights gleaned from these sessions.

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Top Time Management Tips for Caregivers

A woman utilizes time management tips for caregivers as she makes a note in her daily planner.
A woman utilizes time management tips for caregivers as she makes a note in her daily planner.
Try these time management tips for caregivers to alleviate stress.

How much extra time do you have on your hands? If you are like many family caregivers, carving out sufficient time to fulfill each day’s basic requirements may be hard enough. The thought of having regular intervals of downtime might seem unattainable.

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Learn How to Prevent These Common Caregiving Injuries

A woman sits in a wheelchair as her caregiver kneels beside her, preparing to safely transfer her to prevent caregiving injuries.
A woman sits in a wheelchair as her caregiver kneels beside her, preparing to safely transfer her to prevent caregiving injuries.
Avoid common caregiving injuries with these tips!

The data is quite concerning: over 50% of caregivers suffer from caregiving injuries while lifting or transferring elderly individuals. As many family members step into caregiving roles, it’s vital for you to master the right techniques for safely moving and lifting to protect both your health and the well-being of the seniors you assist.

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The Astounding Link Between Exercise and Parkinson’s

An older man who has learned about the link between exercise and Parkinson’s smiles as he leans on a treadmill.
An older man who has learned about the link between exercise and Parkinson’s smiles as he leans on a treadmill.
Learn about the link between exercise and Parkinson’s and how our home care team can help.

The results of maintaining some form of exercise regimen throughout aging are remarkable, but for those with Parkinson’s, it may truly be a game-changer regarding the progression of the disease. Several studies are showing a direct link between exercise and Parkinson’s, including the largest clinical study to date, in which patients who exercised at least 2½ hours per week gained a greater total wellbeing compared to those who refrained from physical activity. And that is just the beginning.

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Cultural Competence: What It Is and Why It Matters

A cartoon of an older man walking his dog on a rainbow road towards another older man reading a newspaper signifies the importance of cultural competence.
A cartoon of an older man walking his dog on a rainbow road towards another older man reading a newspaper signifies the importance of cultural competence.
: Learn what cultural competence is and the steps we’re taking to ensure respectful care for all.

In our commitment to fostering compassionate and supportive spaces for seniors, the importance of cultural competence shines, especially concerning the distinct needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in their later years. Cultural competence transcends mere tolerance, requiring a profound understanding and respect for diverse identities, backgrounds, and experiences. In the realm of senior care, embracing cultural competence becomes crucial to ensuring LGBTQ+ seniors receive the dignity and understanding they deserve as they navigate the complexities of aging.

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Overcoming Common Hurdles Faced by LGBTQ+ Seniors

A woman who is part of the community of LGBTQ+ seniors holds up a rainbow flag.
A woman who is part of the community of LGBTQ+ seniors holds up a rainbow flag.
Learn how we can help LGBTQ+ seniors with inclusive, respectful care.

As we embark on the journey of life, each individual’s story unfolds like a tapestry, rich with diverse experiences and vibrant hues. Among the threads of this intricate fabric are the narratives of LGBTQ+ seniors, whose stories often bear the weight of challenges that demand our attention and empathy. As a leading provider of home care services in Austin and the surrounding areas, we understand the significance of fostering inclusivity to ensure that every member of our community receives the support and care they deserve.

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Peace of Mind Around the Clock With 24-Hour Care

A woman receiving 24-hour care smiles confidently with her caregiver by her side.
A woman receiving 24-hour care smiles confidently with her caregiver by her side.
24-hour care is a solution that ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind around the clock.

There was a period of time when Mom only needed assistance for a few hours, several times per week. Then, as her needs changed, it became more beneficial to have a caregiver present to help her most days of the week while you provided care for her on the weekends. Now, you’re realizing Mom would feel most comfortable at home if she had someone present around the clock to make sure her needs are met and to help with any emergencies that may occur.

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Is Live-In Care Best for Someone You Love?

An older man receives assistance to get out of bed with the help of his live-in caregiver.

As people age and their needs change, the level of support they need to live safely at home may change, too. At first, in-home care assistance may include a caregiver who helps get their day started and prepares nutritious meals. As care needs change, however, receiving assistance for only a few hours a day may … Read more

How to Process the Emotions of Caring for Someone With Dementia

A woman who knows how to process the emotions of caring for someone with dementia hugs her mother as they gaze out at the ocean.
A woman who knows how to process the emotions of caring for someone with dementia hugs her mother as they gaze out at the ocean.
Learn how to process the emotions of caring for someone with dementia in a healthy way.

Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is life-altering – for the person being diagnosed, of course, but just as much for his or her loved ones. It’s important for family caregivers to know how to process the emotions of caring for someone with dementia in healthy ways, and to allow themselves ample time to care for their own mental health and wellbeing.

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The Surprising Link Between Nutrition and Dementia

An outline of a brain is filled with colorful, healthy foods, indicating the link between nutrition and dementia.
An outline of a brain is filled with colorful, healthy foods, indicating the link between nutrition and dementia.
The link between nutrition and dementia means we have even more reason to make sure that older loved ones follow a healthy diet.

In our last blog post, we featured some age-related problems that prevent seniors from following a healthy diet, yet could there also be a link between poor nutrition and dementia? Malnutrition in older individuals is far more common than you may think. The National Resource on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Aging notes that 35% – 50% of the seniors living in long-term care centers are experiencing nutritional deficiencies, and as many as 65% of older adults in the hospital may be malnourished as well.

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The 5 ALS Care Tips You Need to Know

Smiling woman using ALS care tips to help a senior man with a walker, who is also smiling.
Smiling woman using ALS care tips to help a senior man with a walker, who is also smiling.
These quick ALS care tips can truly be life-changing for someone you love.

As a degenerating neurological disease, ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) can cause a wide range of physical obstacles that can trigger clinical depression. For individuals caring for a loved one with ALS, it’s difficult not to become stressed and uncertain about how to help the person live life to the fullest and stay positive. It requires understanding the nuances of the disease and implementing ALS care tips from those who have walked a mile in your shoes.

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How to Ensure a Smooth Transition Home From the Hospital

Senior woman in wheelchair and arm sling
Senior woman in wheelchair and arm sling
This checklist of questions to ask prior to a medical discharge will help make the transition home from the hospital as smooth as possible.

How wonderful it is when the medical personnel tells you that your elderly loved one is ready to be released from the hospital after surgery. Yet as they hand you that collection of discharge documents and guidelines, a certain amount of nervousness may start to settle in. Will your family member be able to take care of herself after the transition home from the hospital?

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How to Help Ease the Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

cancer patient comforted by family
cancer patient comforted by family
Learn about four common side effects of cancer treatment and how you can help minimize them.

If a person you love is fighting cancer, they may be suffering from a few unpleasant side effects of the cancer treatment they are receiving, and you will want to do whatever you can to help relieve these symptoms. Even though just being there with them to provide comfort and friendship is in itself extremely helpful, there are additional steps you can take.

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The Best Ways to Support Someone With Cancer

A diverse group of women supporting breast cancer awareness.100% of our proceeds from 2011 sales will be donated to breast cancer awareness organizations chosen by a breast cancer patient within this shoot. .
A diverse group of women supporting breast cancer awareness.100% of our proceeds from 2011 sales will be donated to breast cancer awareness organizations chosen by a breast cancer patient within this shoot. .
Discover some of the best ways to support someone with cancer.

Being given a diagnosis of cancer is life-changing, and making sure you have a strong network of support is vital. When it’s a friend or loved one, you may be unsure about what you can do to help. You’ll want to know the best ways to support someone with cancer without overstepping boundaries or making them feel discomfort for any reason. What can you do to best provide relief through a diagnosis of cancer for someone you love? Our experts in home care have some guidelines to get you started.

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What to Do When Siblings Won’t Help With Caring for Parents

Stressed senior woman talking with female
Stressed senior woman talking with female
When siblings won’t help with caring for parents, it helps to understand why and to try these tips.

If your siblings won’t help with caring for parents and you’re finding yourself trying to manage everything alone, you’re in good company. In fact, 50% of all family caregivers are caring for an aging loved one alone, according to a recently available report from AARP.

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The Benefits of an Elder Mediator When Caring for Aging Parents

Happy African American couple at successful visit psychologist
Happy African American couple at successful visit psychologist
Discover the benefits of an elder mediator and how they can help overcome difficult family dynamics.

When you’re working together to ensure the care needs of your aging parents are met, even the closest of brothers and sisters could find themselves in opposition. Stress levels and emotions are, obviously, running high. Combine that with your past family dynamics and history, which tend to resurface in the midst of challenging times, and it’s easy to see how difficult this stage in life can be for each of you.

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The Subtle (and Not So Subtle) Signs That a Senior Is Resistant to Care

Senior couple at home in kitchen
Senior couple at home in kitchen
Even if they don’t come right out and say so, there are signs that indicate a senior is resistant to care.

Though many older adults acclimate smoothly when a new caregiver comes into the home, and begin to enjoy a higher quality of life, there are some seniors who may continue to feel threatened. At CareFor, we’re especially sensitive to the feelings of a senior who is resistant to care. We’re skilled in helping to ease concerns and restore peace.

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Why Seniors Resist Home Care: The Top Answer May Surprise You!

Caregiver and senior woman talking
Caregiver and senior woman talking
Understand why seniors resist home care and how you can help overcome objections.

As the top provider of professional senior care in Austin, San Antonio, and the surrounding area, we see firsthand every day the joy, companionship, and improved quality of life older adults receive from having a caregiver. Yet we also know that many older adults balk at the idea of caregiving. Understanding why seniors resist home care is key to overcoming these objections.

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What Is a Geriatric Care Evaluation, and How Can It Help Aging Loved Ones?

Find the best services for an older loved one with the help of a geriatric care evaluation.

As we get older, we stay the unique and intricate people that we have been our whole lives. Assuming that all older adults will act the same and have a need for the same things is a one-size-fits-all approach that just will not work for seniors or the family members who take care of them. Providing care to older adults requires a creative and unique approach for every person. When a caregiver better understands just who the person is and what their distinct needs are, the best plan of care can be fashioned to keep the individual healthy and well at home.

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Home Care Services Can Be an Effective Alternative to Assisted Living

CareFor’s home care services can help an older adult you love.

If you’re the adult child of an aging father or mother, you’ve likely listened to them explain their wish to remain at home versus moving to a nursing home. The truth is, most seniors want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible – for a number of reasons. Home is the place they have carefully created, so it’s where they feel the most familiar and comfortable. Living at home also brings purpose and meaning to a person’s life. Something as simple as looking at your belongings, reading the mail, or relaxing on the back deck are more significant at home than in a long-term care facility because it is the home that provides the framework of life. The comforts of home provide a sense of tranquility and privacy that cannot be substituted.

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Protecting Older Loved Ones From Bed Sores

CareFor shares tips for reducing the risk of bed sores.

Pressure sores, also known as bed sores, affect upwards of one in every ten seniors and are even more prevalent in those who smoke, are living with a chronic disease such as diabetes, or who have fragile or thin skin. Bed sores are not merely extremely painful – they can easily progress to infections that can become life-threatening.

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Senior Bruising: Prevention and Treatment

Learn how to prevent the risk of senior bruising at home.

Of all the changes that manifest as people age, bruising in seniors is one that can be frightening for family members to notice in their loved ones. It is crucial to talk to the senior’s health care provider whenever there is a health issue, but it is also important to realize that senior bruising is actually quite common. Bruising in seniors commonly is caused by the thinning of the skin and a decrease of fat that is normal with the aging process. Even a light bump to older skin can result in much more noticeable bruising as compared to younger skin.

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Helpful Holiday Tips for Caregivers

CareFor shares holiday tips for caregivers to help reduce stress this season.

The holiday season is an ideal time to get together with friends and relatives, but it’s not exactly a relaxing time of year. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season, from shopping to parties to family get-togethers, can be incredibly stressful, and when you’ve got someone to provide care for, your own duties can fall by the wayside. CareFor wants to help with some holiday tips for caregivers to make the season a little less overwhelming.

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Holiday Self-Care for Family Caregivers

Make the holidays a little easier by focusing on self-care for family caregivers.

It’s the most joyful time of the year! But, if you’re one of the millions of Americans who is caring for an older relative, the approaching holidays may seem more like the most overwhelming time of the year. Setting aside time for yourself may have dropped to the very end of your to-do checklist, but the home care specialists at CareFor would like to encourage you to think again and reprioritize your self-care! Self-care for family caregivers is vital not only during the holidays but also throughout the year.

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Understanding and Preventing Alzheimer’s Wandering

CareFor shares safety measures to implement to better manage Alzheimer’s wandering.

Of the numerous ramifications of Alzheimer’s disease, one of the most alarming is the person’s propensity for wandering and the potential dangers that can occur in the event that the senior becomes disoriented or lost. Alzheimer’s wandering can happen if the older adult is:

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Helpful Tips for Communicating With a Senior With Dementia

Nonverbal strategies can help when communicating with a senior with dementia.

Conversations with an older adult struggling with all the difficulties of Alzheimer’s, particularly in the middle and later stages, could very well be discouraging – both for you and also for the person with Alzheimer’s. Brain changes affect the capacity to hear, process, and respond effectively to conversations, and it’s up to us to employ innovative ways of effectively interacting and communicating with a senior with dementia.

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Managing COPD: Tips for Helping a Loved One

Diet, exercise, and improving air quality are ways to help with managing COPD symptoms.

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is the term for two lung diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Basically, an individual’s breathing is severely affected by an obstruction to airflow. Prevailing symptoms include an excessively wet cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. Managing COPD symptoms such as these can be extremely challenging.

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Are the Benefits of Exercise for Seniors Comparable to Medicine?

If you made a resolution in January to work out more this year, hopefully you’re continuing to stay with it! Adding extra physical activity to your everyday activities is one resolution we should all be putting into action. For seniors, many of whom take a variety of medications for various health problems, this is particularly true. As the top provider of in-home care services in Austin and surrounding areas, we’re excited to share research that shows new benefits of exercise for seniors.

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Tips for Moving an Elderly Parent Into Your Home

COVID-19 cases in nursing facilities and assisted living facilities were devastating, as the virus spread like wildfire throughout our most vulnerable population in such close quarters. Because of this, many families made a decision to move their elderly parents home, which raised a number of challenges to be overcome. 

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Try the SMILE Concept to Make Personal Care for Seniors More Comfortable

sunflowers

Stop for a moment, close your eyes, and imagine yourself like this: You have spent most of your life taking care of and assisting others – as a mother or father, in your workplace, through volunteering in your community, and as a grandparent. After all that time spent living independently and being in control of all of your decisions, you have suddenly aged to the point that now you are the person in need of assistance with bathing and other hygiene tasks. Consider the sense of fear, loss, and vulnerability.

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Helpful Tips for Managing Aging Skin Care Issues

It isn’t a facet of senior personal care that is as commonly discussed as other tasks, but is essential to keeping older adults healthy nonetheless. Aging skin care issues can cause a variety of difficulties for seniors, including discomfort, bruising, dryness, itching, and more. 

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Fall Prevention Exercises Help Improve Safety at Home

The CDC shares that as many as one in three older adults fall each year, and surprisingly, less than half of them discuss those falls with their physicians. When a senior falls, even if it does not lead to serious injury, they can develop an enhanced fear of falling, which can result in limited activities, reduced mobility, less exercise, and eventually, a greater risk of another fall. 

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Prevent Senior Falls with Simple Home Modifications

Falls can be painful, but for seniors, a fall can cause catastrophic effects, such as a fractured hip, something that can lead to even more health concerns. As many as one in four seniors who experience a fractured hip lose their lives within six months of the injury – a terribly disturbing, yet preventable fact. For these reasons, it is crucial to take measures in the home to help prevent senior falls. 

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Is It a TIA or Stroke?

Numbness on one side of the body. Slurred speech. Confusion. Appears to be a stroke, right? Then again, if those stroke-like signs subside rather rapidly and seem minor, they may be caused by a TIA (transient ischemic attack). But prior to breathing that sigh of relief and getting back to life as usual, it’s important … Read more

Caring for a Loved One with Dysphagia

On a hot summer day, there is nothing more satisfying than a tall, cold drink, but for someone with dysphagia, this simple pleasure can be downright dangerous. Dysphagia – or difficulty with swallowing – affects millions of older adults, because of weakened mouth and/or throat muscles. Alzheimer’s, MS, cancer, and stroke are typical root causes … Read more

Understanding and Managing Compassion Fatigue

Caregivers dedicate so much of themselves to the ones they care for – both emotionally and physically. It’s common to become wiped out and to start to experience feelings like indifference, exhaustion, and a withdrawal from the person in your care. Referred to as compassion fatigue or secondary traumatic stress, it can be detrimental to your own wellbeing but can also influence your ability to be as nurturing, warm, and caring as you should be for the person you’re caring for.

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