Caring for a Loved One with Dysphagia

November 17, 2022May 11, 2022 by M Lawhon

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

September 21, 2022April 20, 2022 by M Lawhon

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.

Tips for Reducing Family Caregiver Stress

November 17, 2022April 7, 2022 by M Lawhon

Family caregiver stress is inescapable, and in reality, not necessarily always a bad thing. Basically, as they say, “A diamond is just a piece of charcoal that handled stress exceptionally well.” Yet especially for family caregivers, the level of stress can rapidly escalate and become overwhelming, and if not handled effectively, result in serious health concerns.

Investigating Incontinence Myths and Facts

September 21, 2022March 22, 2022 by M Lawhon

Urinary incontinence is an awkward issue for those who experience it. The stigma behind the condition commonly contributes to people having either a lack of facts or a belief in some common misconceptions about incontinence. The following are just a few incontinence myths and the facts to be aware of instead: Myth: Urinary incontinence is … Read more

Understanding Senior Incontinence

September 21, 2022March 9, 2022 by M Lawhon

Incontinence, or decreased bladder control, is a distressing and delicate issue, particularly for older individuals. It can trigger a variety of problems from skin sores to social isolation for individuals who are afraid to leave home in case of an “accident.” Yet, while bladder leakage causes approximately 25 million people in the U.S. to struggle with complications, the affliction hardly ever gets the attention and conversation it needs. With the lack of communication and facts about senior incontinence, many seniors and those who provide their care feel as though there is nothing that can be done about it.

Helpful Steps for Relieving Family Caregiver Guilt

September 21, 2022February 22, 2022 by M Lawhon

Family caregivers give a tremendous amount of themselves to take care of their loved ones, frequently giving up their own desires and needs along the way. It may seem normal, then, to presume that caregivers would feel great about themselves, with a high level of self-esteem and sense of purpose.

You’re Doing Your Best: Tips for Managing Caregiver Guilt

September 21, 2022February 10, 2022 by M Lawhon

A lot of us are trying to juggle numerous assorted responsibilities, and for family caregivers, it can feel similar to juggling flaming swords and knives. It’s natural for family members to become overloaded and to experience feelings of caregiver guilt when wanting to provide the best care for a member of the family. Guilt … Read more

Technology for Seniors: Tools That Help Promote Independence

September 21, 2022January 20, 2022 by M Lawhon

When our parents were younger, telephones were affixed to walls, mail was only the paper variety, and if adult children lived far away from their parents, checking in on them was as simple as asking someone nearby to stop by to visit. If someone were unable to leave home as a result of sickness or frailty, isolation could rapidly set in. Social circles were smaller, and long-distance family members frequently felt powerless if they weren’t able to be there in person to help. But life has drastically changed since those times, and technology has evolved how we communicate and manage the everyday activities of living.

The Importance of Maintaining Senior Independence

September 21, 2022January 5, 2022 by M Lawhon

Throughout the course of life’s stages, our yearning for independence is fulfilled in a variety of ways. There are significant events, such as moving out of our parents’ home or getting married, and less significant occasions, like accomplishing a difficult task on our own. Later, as we age, preserving independence becomes the focus – the capacity to stay in our own home safely and securely. This wish to age in place at home is frequently the greatest desire for older adults, regardless of their state of health or ability to function independently, even in the midst of injury, sickness, or chronic health conditions.

‘Tis the Season to Celebrate: Holiday Tips for Seniors

September 20, 2022December 14, 2021 by M Lawhon

Even though the holiday season is usually viewed as a time that is joyful, abundant with visiting loved ones who are near and dear to us and selecting the perfect gifts, for older people, it can be far from merry and bright. A combination of lost loved ones, memories of holidays past, health problems, and more can hit older adults with emotions of lonesomeness and sorrow.

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Holiday Outings for Seniors

September 21, 2022December 8, 2021 by M Lawhon

The holiday season is loaded with get-togethers, celebrations, and parties. However, holiday outings for seniors may necessitate a little additional planning. Try these recommendations from the Austin senior home care specialists at CareFor to enjoy fun and relaxed outings with loved ones of all ages this season.

Fall Safety Tips for Prevention and Injury Reduction

September 21, 2022November 23, 2021 by M Lawhon

Senior falls happen all too frequently and many times lead to serious consequences. If you’re taking care of aging parents at home, fall prevention is key and can be helped by fall safety measures. This includes assessing the home for fall risks, such as throw rugs or other tripping hazards, insufficient lighting, and a lack … Read more

Respectful Communication When Caring for a Loved One

September 21, 2022November 11, 2021 by M Lawhon

Did you ever walk into the office or a get-together with family or friends and had someone say to you, “You look so tired today!” While you may have felt pretty perky until that moment, suddenly you really DO feel tired and worn out. The words we say to one another, along with the way we interpret them, are powerful. So if you’re a caregiver for a senior you love, or even just talking with someone who has a chronic health concern, it’s important to carefully think about what to say and, even more importantly, what NOT to say to help the person feel their best. Respectful communication can help pave the way to a better relationship between you and your loved one.

Seniors Can Age at Home Safely with These Tips

March 22, 2025August 26, 2021 by M Lawhon

The great majority of seniors are set on staying at home throughout aging, rather than relocating to an assisted living facility or nursing home – close to 9 out of 10 of them, according to research done by AARP. And who can blame them? The comfort of familiar surroundings, the freedom to go wherever, whenever … Read more

Safety Tips for Seniors Who Use Wheelchairs

March 22, 2025August 11, 2021 by M Lawhon

Home is where we’re most comfortable, and it’s for that reason so many older adults make the choice to remain at home through their golden years. But oftentimes wheelchairs come to be a part of life when seniors or those with specific disabilities experience decreased mobility. This can be a unique challenge when it comes … Read more

Thoughtful Responses to Common Difficult Behaviors Due to Alzheimer’s

March 22, 2025July 28, 2021 by M Lawhon

Alzheimer’s is a complex condition that often presents overwhelming issues for those providing care. As the disease continues into later stages, those with Alzheimer’s become increasingly dependent on communication through behavior rather than speech, and oftentimes these behaviors are of an inappropriate nature. For instance, someone with more advanced Alzheimer’s disease may present the following:

When Caring for Someone with Dementia Becomes Stressful for Family Caregivers

March 22, 2025July 15, 2021 by M Lawhon

Picture how it would feel to awaken in an unfamiliar location, not able to remember how you arrived there or even what your name is. Progressing into complete disorientation, then quickly leading to anger and fear, you might find yourself lashing out at the unknown person positioned beside your bed, talking to you in a quiet voice.

My Loved One Needs Professional Help at Home. So, What’s Next?

September 21, 2022June 24, 2021 by M Lawhon

You’re beginning to become concerned that Dad may possibly be in need of some professional help at home, and so obviously, you know just where to go for assistance, right? No? Take heart – you aren’t alone. Millions of people in the U.S. are facing the same predicament, and most people don’t know a lot about home care services until the need for care arises.

Contact us online or call us at (512) 338-4533 for professional home care services.

Enhancing Independence for Older Adults is Easier When Partnering with CareFor

September 21, 2022June 9, 2021 by M Lawhon

As we get older, it is common to begin to encounter challenges with daily activities, including showering, dressing, planning and preparing meals, or even driving a vehicle. This can lead to concerns that these challenges suggest that we’ll have to give up not just our self-reliance, but our home as well. However, there is encouraging news for seniors: home care services, such as those provided by CareFor, can help actually enhance independence for older adults and help them continue living at home safely where they’re most comfortable.

If You’re a Caregiver for an Older Adult, Consider Adding Music to Your Routine

September 21, 2022May 13, 2021 by M Lawhon

These days, music is more available than ever before. For those who bring smartphones or tablets with them everywhere they go, hundreds of thousands – if not tens of millions of tunes – are just a few taps or finger swipes away. If you are a caregiver for an older adult, your smartphone may become one of the most helpful tools in your possession in helping tap into the benefits of music. This widely circulated video clip from the Alive Inside documentary demonstrates just how incredibly effective music can be for seniors with limited capabilities and dementia.

The Benefits of Respite Care Services for Family Caregivers

March 22, 2025April 28, 2021 by M Lawhon

Meeting the care needs of an elderly or disabled loved one is a physically and emotionally strenuous responsibility, and it’s vital for family caregivers to take routine breaks to rest and relax. These are the benefits of respite care. Respite care services provide relief from the everyday duties of caregiving, allowing family caregivers to also care for themselves.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late! Learn How Respite Care Services Alleviate Family Caregiver Burnout

September 21, 2022April 13, 2021 by M Lawhon

Caregiving for an aging loved one, though incredibly fulfilling, can also cause family caregiver burnout. The 24/7 pressure of taking care of a loved one’s needs can rapidly escalate to a high level of stress which can lead to a loss of patience and emotionally charged outbursts, affecting not just the caregiver personally, but his/her senior loved one as well.

Care From a Distance: Choosing Care Management During COVID-19

March 22, 2025March 23, 2021 by M Lawhon

caregiver assisting senior woman with paperwork

The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly concerning for older individuals and their family members. Seniors are disproportionately affected by the virus, especially those with underlying health concerns like COPD and heart issues. In order to maintain social distancing and decrease contact with potential contagions, many older adults have become progressively isolated from their loved ones. Without routine socialization and attentive care, loneliness and depression as well as memory issues linked to dementia and other diseases can creep in. In response to these challenging circumstances, many seniors and their families are choosing to seek the help of care management during COVID-19.

How Care Management Can Help Seniors Managing Chronic Health Needs

September 21, 2022March 10, 2021 by M Lawhon

caregiver discussing medication with senior man

Managing the numerous medical appointments, treatments, tests, prescriptions, lifestyle adjustments, and more is a way of life for the many older individuals with chronic health needs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 85% of seniors have at least one chronic health care need, and 60% are living with two or more. The difficulties can seem overwhelming. But there’s one essential element to help seniors managing chronic health needs: care management.

Benefits of a Heart Healthy Diet for Seniors

September 21, 2022February 24, 2021 by M Lawhon

Our senior care professionals in Austin understand that it’s tough to make the right dietary choices when guidelines appear to constantly change. We had been told that saturated fats from options like butter, red meat and fried food were harmful and could potentially impact a person’s odds of developing heart problems, but later research revealed there isn’t enough evidence that people who gave up these delicacies improved their heart health – and so, we went back to our old ways due to the go-ahead to opt for butter over margarine.

Heart Health in Seniors: Tips For Managing Heart Disease with Medications

November 17, 2022February 9, 2021 by M Lawhon

senior couple looking through medications

If you have been diagnosed with heart disease, you know it is important to take your heart disease medications correctly. But what exactly does that mean? Learn about heart health in seniors and how to get the most from your meds with the following tips:

Elder Care Technology Trends in 2021

September 21, 2022January 26, 2021 by M Lawhon

Senior woman using a video app on her smartphone

Throughout the pandemic, our Georgetown and surrounding area home care experts witnessed firsthand the crucial role of elder care technology in the lives of aging adults. As we move into 2021 and encounter the challenges of the new year, health and well-being are at the forefront of how we think about technology for older adults. In 2021, it’s expected that these technology trends will be the ones to look out for.

Home Care Assistance Following a Hospital Stay

March 22, 2025December 23, 2020 by M Lawhon

Caregiver taking client's blood pressure

A priority for hospitals currently is decreasing readmissions for patients who are at high risk. Healthcare Financial Management Association’s article “Two Ways Hospitals Can Reduce Avoidable Readmissions” explains that effective initiatives from several hospitals with minimal 30-day rehospitalizations are, to a certain extent, the result of working together with inpatient and outpatient care providers, such as CareFor, which offers trusted home care assistance.

Holidays With Seniors May Highlight Warning Signs That Home Care Is Needed

December 9, 2022December 9, 2020 by M Lawhon

Senior man eating a meal in the hospital

While of course we’d like to imagine enjoying a Norman Rockwell-worthy holiday celebration, with all of our family members spending quality time together and Grandma’s traditional holiday feast, the reality for some families instead consists of something unexpected: an E/R visit. As a matter of fact, studies show that emergency room visits for older adults jump about 10 – 20% over the holidays.

What to Do When Seniors Experience Dementia Confusion

March 22, 2025November 25, 2020 by M Lawhon

Grandson and grandfather walking together outside

Dementia confusion, a typical occurrence in Alzheimer’s, can lead to recent memories being forgotten about or distorted, while memories from the more distant past usually remain unimpaired. This can cause prior periods of time to be more realistic to an older adult with dementia than the present. A person’s alternate reality can be his or her way of making sense of the present through past experiences.

Anosognosia: How to Care for Seniors Unaware of Their Dementia

March 22, 2025November 12, 2020 by M Lawhon

CareFor offers senior care in San Marcos and nearby areas

If an aging loved one with dementia has voiced beliefs such as this, you may have thought to yourself that he or she was just in denial and reluctant to acknowledge such a concerning diagnosis. However, there may be another reason: anosognosia, or a person’s genuine unawareness that he/she is impaired by dementia.

Senior Finances: a Difficult but Vital Discussion

September 21, 2022October 29, 2020 by M Lawhon

Adult children and senior parents having a family meeting

Millions of people in America are struggling with the question of whether their senior parents are able to afford long-term care. Financial issues can be a sensitive topic, and when it’s time to begin planning for long-term care needs, holding an honest and open discussion about how your parents will cover the cost for senior care services is important.

Simplifying The Complexities of Long-Term Care Insurance

September 21, 2022October 14, 2020 by M Lawhon

Friendly girl explaining some documentation to parent

Long-term care insurance can provide great peace of mind, but utilizing those benefits can wind up being a complex undertaking for seniors and their family members. To help lead families through the process, CareFor offers the following informative overview.

A Senior’s Sense of Purpose: Feeling Useful Makes All the Difference

September 21, 2022September 22, 2020 by M Lawhon

Senior woman and her adult daughter cutting flowers

Look online for the phrase “activities for seniors” and you’ll likely find a number of memory stimulation puzzles, crafts, games, and of course, the requisite bingo. What you won’t find, unless you really search much longer, are the meaningful, philanthropic activities that provide meaning and purpose to our lives. Yet, if you ask older individuals … Read more

Maintaining Meaning and Purpose for Retired Seniors With the Help of Home Care

September 21, 2022September 9, 2020 by M Lawhon

Friendly caregiver meeting a new senior client

“Here, I can help you with that.”

“Don’t over-exert yourself!”

“I’ll handle that; you just sit and rest.”

Fun and Creative Ways to Enhance Your Role as Family Caregiver

September 21, 2022August 25, 2020 by M Lawhon

Senior woman and caregiver walking home from grocery store

Millions of individuals nationwide find themselves in a role of a family caregiver to provide senior care for an older loved one, and although serving as a family caregiver is incredibly fulfilling in many ways, the daily responsibilities involved with senior care may come to be monotonous for both the caregiver and the senior. CareFor, providers of professional in home care Austin, TX and surrounding areas, wants to help you with putting the fun back into your loved one’s everyday routine. All it takes is a bit of inventiveness!

Contact us online or call us at (512) 338-4533 for professional home care.