10 Tips for Taking Care of Elderly Loved Ones

There are a lot of things to think about when caring for an elder adult. You want to make sure they’re comfortable and safe, while also ensuring that their needs are being met.

Here are 10 tips for providing the best elder care:

1. Establish a routine and stick to it as much as possible.

Having a routine will help your elderly loved one feel more comfortable and less anxious. It will also help you stay organized and on top of their care.

Additionally, studies show that a consistent schedule will keep your loved one from becoming depressed.

2. Keep communication open.

Make sure you keep the lines of communication open with your elderly loved one. This way, they can let you know what they need or how they’re feeling without feeling like they’re a burden.

Try making phone calls or visiting once a week so that you can keep in touch often, but not too often. You don’t want them to feel cramped by your constant presence.

3. Encourage them to stay active and engaged.

Staying active and engaged is important for elder adults. It helps keep them healthy and mentally stimulated. Ideas for staying active include going on walks, doing puzzles, or participating in social activities.

In terms of mental stimulation, puzzles, word games, and other activities that encourage thinking are great. You can also try reading books or watching documentaries together.

4. Help them eat healthily and stay hydrated.

As we age, it becomes more important to eat healthily and stay hydrated. This is because our bodies become less efficient at processing nutrients and getting rid of toxins.

Stay on a consistent diet and make sure they’re getting enough fruits, vegetables, and water. You can also supplement their diet with vitamins if needed.

5. Make sure their home is safe.

Falls are a common cause of injury in elder adults. To help prevent falls, make sure their home is safe. Remove trip hazards, keep walkways clear, and install handrails.

You should also make sure that their home is well-lit so that they can see clearly. You can do this by taking advantage of windows and skylights, by adding plenty of light fixtures, placing mirrors to reflect light, and by painting the walls light colors.

6. Manage their medication.

It’s important to manage elder adults’ medications properly. This means taking into account their current health condition, as well as any potential interactions between medications.

If they’re taking multiple medications, make sure you keep a detailed list of them and discuss them with their doctor. You should also be aware of the side effects of each medication and make notes of any changes after starting a new medication.

7. Help them stay socially connected.

One of the best things you can do for an elder adult is helping them stay socially connected. This means encouraging them to interact with other people, whether it’s family, friends, or even strangers.

You can help them stay socially connected by setting up regular outings, inviting people over to their house, or joining a social club or group. For many elders, it is hard to get out of the house because their friend circles have shrunk or everyone they know lives too far away, so it is important to make an effort to get out and meet new people.

8. Provide emotional support.

Elder adults often experience feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to provide emotional support so that they can cope with these feelings.

You can provide emotional support by being a listening ear, by providing encouragement, and by being there for them when they need you. You should also be careful not to overstep your bounds and criticize or judge them.

9. Take care of yourself.

Caring for an elder adult can be very taxing both physically and emotionally. It’s important that you take care of yourself so that you can be the best caregiver possible.

This means getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. You should also make sure to take some time for yourself every day to do things that you enjoy.

10. Seek help when needed.

Caring for an elder adult is a big responsibility and it can be hard to do on your own. If you find that you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help from others.

This could mean reaching out to family and friends for assistance, speaking to an elder care agency in Hillsborough, or enrolling the elder adult in a daycare program.

Conclusion

Caring for an elder adult can be a rewarding experience, but it’s also important to be prepared for the challenges that come with it. By following these tips, you can make sure that both you and the elder adult in your life are happy and healthy.

Everything You Should know about Elderly Care Resources

Some seniors might be anxious about their retirements or the idea of nursing homes, but there’s nothing to be afraid of. Turning into an elder opens the door to a calmer, more relaxing world. Many countries appreciate the work of the elders and provide resources to keep them well and safe. If you are reaching this tender age, you might be looking into what this entails and what resources are there for you.

What is Elder Care?

Eldercare assists seniors who have difficulty living independently or have a chronic illness. These services can include daily tasks such as meal preparation, housekeeping, errands, transportation, and personal charges such as grooming and bathing. It can also help take medication correctly, deal with other medical needs, and keep track of appointments.

Eldercare is often provided by family members, either unpaid or for low costs. At the same time, the US offers some of these services under the wing of Medicaid. However, it is also frequently performed by professional caregivers supervised by an elder care organization or senior center. The term “elder care” can be contrasted with the term “child care,” which can be provided by family members (especially mothers), neighbors, or other nonprofessional whereas, elder care tends to be more institutionalized and professionals are involved.

What do Elder Care Professionals Do?

Eldercare professionals can be divided into two main categories: home health aides and registered nurses.

Home Health Aides

Home health aides assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and limited housekeeping. They may also refer to themselves as companions, homemakers, companions, personal care aides, or home attendants. Some states require licensing for this position, though not all do.

Aides are also hired to provide transportation for the elderly. They may transport the elder to medical appointments and help them run errands or go shopping.

If you hire an aide to be present in your house 24 hours a day, seven days a week, they may be called live-in workers. These workers can often perform light tasks such as cooking and cleaning, but they may also provide personal care services such as shaving or bathing.

Registered Nurses

Registered nurses (RNs) are licensed to prescribe medications, treat injuries or illnesses, and counsel around health issues. These professionals are often required to be on duty 24 hours a day. RNs can be found in private homes, nursing homes, or assisted living residences. They can also work in home health care agencies with other nurses and aides.

Seniors need to receive all the assistance they need without jeopardizing their dignity or safety. Elder care professionals can help prevent chronic illness and mental health problems. They are here to ensure that your senior loved one is receiving the best possible care and support.

Elder Care Resources for Seniors

Resources for senior care are growing everywhere. The US government has set up many services to take care of the retired and make their life easier. This includes health insurance programs such as Medicaid, which helps seniors receive nursing home benefits, or Medicare, which provides health insurance for seniors over 65. it’s vital to notice that Medicare only applies under specific requirements, and often those requirements can be challenging to obtain.

In addition to federal programs, many non-profit organizations aim to support seniors living outside nursing homes. There are also many options available from private companies for skilled home care and long-term care insurance. If you want more information on this subject, check out some of these resources:

Long Term Care Insurance Guide

The Long Term Care Insurance Guide is a complete guide to long-term care insurance for seniors. This guide shows seniors everything they need to know about long-term care insurance and how to use it effectively. Every senior should take the time to learn about this important topic and make sure that they are protected against chronic illness or death if one of their loved ones has these issues and needs help.

Elder Care Locator

The Elder Care Locator is the first reference point for finding elder care services in your state. The US government created this service, so it has links to every possible assistance to help seniors receive support at home. If you want to, check out this site for more information on home care benefits or nursing homes in your area. It’s important to remember that some services are only accessible under certain conditions.

Assisted Living Federation of America

A great resource if you’re looking for short-term assisted living facilities is the Assisted Living Federation of America. This website has a facility locator where you can find all kinds of information on assisted living facilities near you, including contact details and rates for different levels of care.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of resources for senior citizens. Open your eyes, and you will find excellent assisted living facilities in your area. Now that you know the adequate resources, you should be able to find good elderly care services in Hillsborough or near your location. Fortunately, we will save you the research time and direct you to not just good, but the best elderly care services in Hillsborough: No Place Like Home Care. Head over to their website to find out more about elder care resources for seniors.

5 Negative Effects Of Re-Hospitalization And Why Home Care Is Better

No one wants to stay in the hospital longer than they have to. There’s nothing fun about getting sick or injured, and there’s nothing more depressing than being stuck in a room all by yourself while you recover. But sometimes, this becomes the reality for people who find themselves stuck in the cycle of rehospitalization.

What is re-hospitalization?

Re-hospitalization refers to people who have been released from a hospital after being treated for an injury or illness, but then had to return to that same hospital due to a relapse. This could be because of a worsening of their symptoms, new symptoms added on, or anything else going wrong with the recovering patient.

What are the negative effects of re-hospitalization?

It may not seem like a huge deal, but the reality is that re-hospitalization can be extremely dangerous and has negative effects on patients and families. Here is a list of five of these negative effects:

1) Creates dependencies

When patients are continually readmitted into the hospital, they can become dependant on a care system that is not working for them. This can be because they are getting worse health outcomes, or because they are constantly being kept in the dark about what’s going on with their care. It’s important for patients to feel like they have some control over their treatment plan, even if that is difficult to do when you’re recovering from an injury or illness.

2) Can cause depression

When patients are readmitted over and over again into the hospital, they can begin to feel like they are making no progress or that they will never recover. These feelings of hopelessness can result in depression, a disorder that can be extremely harmful to sufferers and those around them.

Depression is a sometimes deadly condition that can lead to suicide, drug abuse, and other dangerous behaviors. Additionally, depression impacts patient morale, which is often associated with poor mental and physical health. When someone is depressed, any other illnesses or diseases will become harder to deal with and may even lead to relapse. In some cases, patients may stop trying to recover or may be in so much pain that they can no longer get themselves to a doctor.

Home care nursing services in Pasco can help with this. Many people don’t realize how dangerous depression can be, and a re-hospitalization could actually be a sign of it.

3) Causes stress for families

Families are vital to the healing process, but they can also be affected by re-hospitalization. When a family member is readmitted over and over again to the hospital, it can cause a lot of stress for everyone. This is especially true if a patient has a long road to recovery, but they’re constantly being put back in the hospital because their family isn’t sure how to care for them at home.

Family members can also be negatively affected by re-hospitalization if a patient relapses and dies. In these cases, family members may feel like they didn’t do enough to care for the patient during their recovery. This can lead to guilt, which is another dangerous emotional state that can negatively impact a person’s life.

Agencies for elderly home care in Hillsborough can help resolve of this anxiety by providing top-notch care for patients.

4) Increases costs of care

Re-hospitalization can get very expensive for patients, their families, and the healthcare system in general. Most insurance companies have a policy that will only pay for a certain number of hospitalizations, and when a patient is just being readmitted without having made any progress, that date will come faster.

5) Increases chances of death

There is a strong correlation between re-hospitalization and death. While this is just an association, it’s important to remember that when a patient is re-hospitalized, they are not receiving the same type of care that they may have been getting before. Because their symptoms are not being addressed, they will not be helped until the issues begin to spiral out of control. By this time, it may even be too late.

Choose home care nursing services in Pasco instead

Given all of these negative effects, it’s clear that re-hospitalization is not a good thing for patients and their families. Instead, home care is a much better option for those who are looking to recover from injury or illness. In the comfort of their own homes, patients can have their symptoms identified and treated in a way that works best for them.

Agencies for elderly home care in Hillsborough like No Place Like Home Care can help you and your loved ones improve your lives and happiness! Contact them today for more information.

5 Ways To Boost Mental Health In Seniors

If you are a caregiver for a senior in Florida, you may be noticing that their mental state is deteriorating, and it’s affecting your relationship with them. It’s just as important to take care of the mental health of our aging loved ones as it is to take care of their physical health!

1. Stay socially active

Socializing with friends and family is a great way to boost mental health in seniors. Staying connected to others helps keep you mentally stimulated and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation.

There are a number of ways that you can get involved with the social spheres around you!

Join a club

There are likely many clubs and organizations in your community that caters to seniors. This can be a great way to meet new people, stay active, and learn about your community.

Volunteer

Doing volunteer work is a great way to boost mental health in seniors. You’ll meet new people and help out your community while gaining a sense of purpose by volunteering. Volunteering can also be an excellent way for seniors to try something new and take on challenges they never thought possible before.

Hire a home health care nurse

If you opt for in home health care in Seminole, your loved one will always have a companion to socialize with and keep them mentally stimulated. Whether you hire a home health care nurse to stay with your loved one at their residence or yours, the companionship is sure to help!

Visit family more often

If you have family living close by, make an effort to visit more often! Spending time with your loved ones is a great way to boost mental health in seniors. You’ll also get to spend time with people that you care about and who are excited to see you. These visits can be therapeutic for both of you!

2. Get active

Whether you used to be an athlete or if exercise isn’t your forte, there are plenty of ways to get moving!

Take a walk

Taking a walk is a simple way to boost mental health in seniors. Walking is excellent for your heart and can help improve circulation. It’s also a low-impact activity that requires little physical exertion, making it easy for just about anyone to fit into their day.

Go swimming

Getting in touch with your aquatic side is a great way to boost mental health in seniors! Swimming is an excellent full-body workout that can help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. It’s also a form of cardio that doesn’t stress the joints, making it a great choice for seniors with mobility issues.

3. Take up a new hobby

Hobbies are another excellent way to boost mental health in seniors. Taking up a new hobby is a great way to try out something new and exciting and put your all into it!

Whether you’ve always wanted to learn how to paint, play an instrument, or speak Spanish, there’s no time like the present! Making the effort to learn something new will help you develop new skills, broaden your horizons, and keep your brain active!

4. Eat healthily

Eating right is an essential part of staying healthy, especially as you age! Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help keep your mind sharp while promoting overall health.

A home health care nurse in Seminole can help you develop good eating habits or meal plans to keep you on track.

5. Get plenty of sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for everyone, but it’s especially important for seniors! Getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep every night will help your mind and body stay rested, alert, and rejuvenated.

If you or your loved one is having trouble sleeping at night, make an effort to take care of their bedtime routine. That could mean anything from making sure they’re drinking enough water throughout the day to taking out any electronics an hour before bed.

Conclusion

Maintaining good mental health is crucial at any age, but it’s vital for seniors! By following these five tips, you can help your loved one stay sharp, happy, and healthy!

If you want to learn more about caregiving, reach out to No Place like Home Care, a provider of in home health care for seniors in Seminole.

Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers? Here’s What you Need to Know

Considering hiring private duty home care workers? You are not alone. More and more Americans are hiring private duty nurses to take away the enormous pressures of caring for their loved ones and juggle multiple chores simultaneously. Unlike home health care services, private duty services are different. Here’s a look at what private duty services include and what to look for when hiring private home care duty workers for yourself or your loved ones.

What is private duty care?

Private duty home care services include client home visits that don’t require any medical care. Their main work is to ensure the client completes all their daily activities.

Private duty home care is non-medical care provided by caregivers who are not licensed medical personnel. When a person cannot complete their daily tasks because of an injury or an illness, a private home care duty caregiver can assist with:

• Personal care and dressing (bathing, grooming, hygiene, brushing hair, shaving, etc.)
• Preparing light meals and feeding.
• Grocery shopping.
• Help with pet care.
• Light homemaking chores like laundry and house cleaning.
• Following a medication regimen, monitoring medications, and medicine reminders.
• Making phone calls, sorting mail, and other communications.
• Mobility and transfers, and walking.
• Providing companionship and emotional support.
• Ensuring safety in the home.

How to find a private duty home care agency

Whether you feel unsafe at home or have difficulty completing everyday tasks because of health or age-related issues, private duty care can help within the comfort of your home. Agencies, nurse registries, and private caregivers all provide these specialized services. There are differences in the care each of these services provides. But they all aim to make the client comfortable, safe, and independent in their home.

When you begin looking for a private duty home care worker, the first step is to scout all the agencies in your area. Also, look for agencies that will provide private duty home care workers to your locality. Going through the website and online brochures of all the companies on your list is the next step- however, it’s also important to vet each organization thoroughly.

Fifteen questions to ask when hiring a private duty home care agency

Here are 15 questions to ask when hiring private duty home care workers:

1. Does the agency have experience managing the type of senior care you need?

2. How often does the agency supervise its caregivers?

3. What procedures should you follow if you are dissatisfied with the care provided or require backup care?

4. How long has the agency been in business?

5. Is the agency registered and licensed? Insured and bonded?

6. What screening process does the agency use for the caregivers? Background checks are critical.

7. Do caregivers receive ongoing training? Will training impact the care your loved one receives?
8. What is the agency’s policy about care on holidays?

9. Does the agency assign supervisors to ensure high quality of care? How often will a supervisor get in touch with the client/the client’s family?

10. Does the agency have a 24×7 customer service number in case there is a problem?

11. How does the agency ensure the right caregiver match for your loved one?

12. What range of private care duties does the agency provide? Will they meet any special needs?

13. Does the organization have malpractice insurance?

14. Will a therapist or nurse evaluate your home care needs?

15. Will the agency provide written statements regarding all the costs and payment plan options?

Conclusion

Home health care services are a fantastic option for those who need assistance at home. However, choosing the right agency and caregiver cannot be left to chance.

Looking for private home health care Seminole? There are over two dozen private home health care agencies in Seminole. Follow these tips when choosing an agency, and you have a better chance of finding the perfect agency and caregiver for your loved one.

About No Place Like HomeCare

No Place Like HomeCare is a leading caregiver and nurse referral agency that provides home health care services and senior assistance in Florida. No Place Like HomeCare is licensed to provide private home health care Seminole.

Tips On Dealing With The Stress Of Caring For Elderly Parents

Caring for the elderly can be difficult, but if they are your parents it can be even more stressful. No one wants their parents to become old, unable to do things they once enjoyed. But aging is a natural process and cannot be avoided.

Taking care of your elderly parents is rewarding but it is also a long-term challenge. You could be looking at years or even decades of caregiving responsibilities. The stress from caring for your parents could snowball over time.Signs of caregiver stress

You must have heard of the saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” This is especially true when it comes to caring for your elderly parents. You can best take care of them if you take good care of yourself too.

Recognizing the signs of caregiver stress is important so that you can take measures to improve the situation for yourself and your parents.

Some common signs of caregiver stress include:

–   Depression
–   Withdrawal
–   Anxiety
–   Anger or Irritability
–   Difficulty concentrating
–   Changes in eating habits
–   Exhaustion
–   Insomnia
–   Increased drinking or smoking
–   Frequent health problems

Tips to deal with the stress of caring for elderly parents

People often do not know how to deal with the stress of caring for elderly parents and find themselves fighting mental and emotional strain. Juggling your busy life and family while caring for your parents can be very stressful. Self-care does not make you selfish. It makes you better equipped to care for your parents.

To manage the stress of caring for your elderly parents:

Take care of your physical health

You can’t take care of anyone if you are sick yourself, can you? Ensure that you eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and get enough exercise. Being physically active and eating a nutritious diet improves health, increases energy levels, and enhances your overall mood, immunity, and general well-being.

Take care of your mental health

Taking care of your mental health is equally important as caring for your physical health. Create a schedule that allows you to get some time for yourself. This is not the time to run errands or take a nap. It should be quality time that allows you to do things that make you feel good.

Get organized

It can be overwhelming to take care of your elderly parents while managing your family and busy life. Prioritizing tasks, making to-do lists, and establishing a routine can take a lot of the stress off. Being organized is the key to making daily activities go smoothly and seem less overwhelming.

Communicate

You may have a super busy schedule but don’t forget to stay in touch with your friends, family members, and relatives. You need social interaction and support and these people can be great sources. If you feel too overwhelmed, you may ask for help in caring for your parents. It may surprise you to know how many people are willing to pitch in and help.

Join a support group

Consider joining a support group for caregivers, as it will help you connect with people going through a similar situation. These support groups are worthwhile sources of support and information. People in these groups can also offer useful problem-solving strategies for difficult situations. If your parents suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s, you should consider joining a support group for caregivers coping with that particular disease.

Get respite

Taking short breaks regularly is very important for managing stress when caring for your elderly parents. Respite care refers to short-term breaks for primary caregivers. It could be only for an afternoon or for several days. Opting for respite care allows you to take care of your needs, without compromising on the needs of your parents.

Seek help from professional caregivers

If you feel that you can no longer do it alone, you should consider getting professional help. Professional caregivers can take on numerous tasks, including laundry, cooking meals according to dietary needs, and driving to doctor’s appointments. If your parents’ needs are physical, that is, they need help to lift, bathe or dress, you must consider hiring a professional. Your parents get excellent care while taking a huge load off your shoulders.

No Place Like Home Care is one of the best and trusted names in home health care Hillsborough County. They offer an array of services in elder care and home care services for seniors. If you are looking for experienced and mature caregivers in Hillsborough County home health care, visit No Place Like Home Care today.

Importance of Mental Health and Fitness in Elders

Physical activity is important at any age in your life. As seniors grow older, it can often be much more challenging to maintain strong physical health. However, there are so many different exercises that seniors can do to improve their overall physical health. You have heard it time and time again. When you look good, you feel good.

There are so many studies that prove exercise is linked to stronger mental and physical health. Sometimes it can be challenging for seniors to feel motivated to exercise, however with eldercare and in-home assessment services in Tampa such as No Place Like Home Care, receiving the motivation to go on walks daily has never been easy.

If you are looking for trusted elder care and live-in service in the Seminole County area, check out No Place Like Home Care for some of the best home care for the elderly in Hillsborough, Florida. It can be so tricky to find an elder care agency in Seminole County. Finding a company that has trusted employees to look after your loved ones is essential.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of mental and physical health in elders, as well as how elder care and in-home assessment services in Tampa can help you or a senior loved one.

Prevent Diseases

Studies have proved that maintaining a regular physical activity routine can help prevent many heart disease and diabetes diseases. Exercise improves your overall immune function, which is one of the most important things for seniors to maintain as they grow older.

As a senior, it can be challenging to get yourself into a routine. However, with the help of elder care agencies in Seminole County, the nurses and home care experts will be able to motivate the seniors to get out and move daily.

Improve Mental Health

Mental and physical health are directly correlated and linked together. As you exercise, your body produces natural endorphins that work as a natural stress reliever that leaves you happy and feeling healthy.

Exercise is also proven to improve sleep which is very important for older adults with insomnia or lack of sleep. When exercising as a senior, it is important not to overwork yourself and find a balance. Home care for the elderly in Tampa employees will be able to find a healthy balance of daily physical activity for the seniors they are caring for.

Decrease Risk of Falling

As adults age, the risk of falling increases exceptionally. Falling can be very dangerous and lead to many other risks, such as head injuries. Exercising regularly can improve seniors’ strength as well as flexibility. When seniors have more power and endurance, they can help them from falling down the stairs or slipping accidentally.

Social Abilities

When seniors spend most of their time in their homes, it can be hard for them to have a social life anymore. A variety of eldercare and live-in services in Seminole county promote social engagement among the seniors.

Seniors tend to feel isolated, lonely, and depressed. These are everyday things that come with old age. However, they can be decreased with proper mental and physical health. As a senior, take advantage of going on daily walks in the neighborhood with friends or loved ones. Exercise does not have to be done alone and can be a great social event to partake in.

Exercise Can Reduce Eary On-Set Dementia

Studies have proven that exercising is directly correlated to preventing dementia. Starting these healthy habits young is very important so that when you grow older, your body is used to it. Things may not come as easy as they once did before, but your body will thank you for exercising it over time.

What Are Some Exercises for Seniors?

Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day when you grow older can immensely improve your overall quality of life. Exercises like strength training, flexibility, and water aerobics are fun and safe for seniors to partake in.

Start a New Hobby

Staying active in retirement is vital to strong mental health. If you are looking for assistance in finding a new safe hobby, look to No Place Like Home Care for the best elder care and in-home assessment services in Tampa. The trained professionals at this elder care agency in Tampa have years of experience helping seniors check off their “bucket list” safely.

Hobbies such as cooking, knitting, painting, gardening, and even sewing are great things to help seniors occupy their time and improve their overall mental health.

Volunteer

Volunteering kills two birds with one stone. It is excellent for improving mental and physical health. Volunteering gets seniors out of the house and moving and allows them to impact the community positively. There are so many different organizations that could use the assistance and vast knowledge from seniors daily.

Donating your time is one of the most rewarding things for seniors to do. Various establishments need assistance from seniors, including working with children, the food bank, animal shelters, or hospitals. Volunteering is also a great way to make new friends that enjoy the same activities as you.

Care for a Pet

Caring for a pet or another companion can help seniors feel like they are independent again. Pets come with quite a few mental and physical health benefits such as decreased blood pressure, reduced feelings of isolation or depression, and increase opportunities for socialization.

Final Thoughts

If you know someone looking for elder care and live-in services in Seminole County, contact No Place Like Home Care for the best home care for the elderly in Hillsborough. It is vital to ensure that seniors are properly taken care of during their time of old age.

Exercise and strong mental health is vital for seniors as they grow older. There are so many different things that seniors can do daily to improve their overall health. Be sure to be as active as you can and look to family and friends when you feel depressed for assistance.

Caring for Elders While Holding a Job: The Prescription for Stress

Caring for elderly loved ones can put a strain on even the strongest people. Being the primary caregiver for an elder should be considered a full-time job, which can be a difficult responsibility if you have another job.

If you have been under stress while juggling caring for an elder and holding down a job, this post will offer some ideas to help relieve stress.

Whether the elder you are caring for is a close family member, friend, or neighbor, taking a moment to think about why you are doing it can be rewarding.

Stress Signs

Stress can express itself in a variety of ways, and it is important to recognize and attempt to take control of it before it gets out of hand.

Here are some of the most common ways that caregiver stress expresses itself.

• Irritability, depression, and anxiety
• Feeling run down and unmotivated
• Difficulting falling asleep or staying asleep
• Trouble concentrating
• Spending less time on leisure activities

If any of these stress signs apply to you, read the tips listed below to put your body and mind on the right track.

Tip 1: Switch Up Your Routine

If you have been the primary caregiver for an elder for a long time, you may have found yourself stuck in a routine without knowing it. By switching up your routine, you will be better able to spend time on activities that you enjoy while still fulfilling your duties as a caregiver.

For example, if your caregiving experience consists of staying inside and watching television all day, we suggest taking a walk or going for a scenic drive. It can be hard to remember to take care of your needs and wants when someone else’s life is in your hands, but you can incorporate simple activities that you will both enjoy.

Home health caregivers in Tampa suggest that you think of activities that both you and your loved one enjoy doing once in a while.

Tip 2: Spread The Responsibility

If you are left with little time to spend on yourself outside of caregiving and your job, enlist other family members or friends to help take the load off.

If there are any tasks that you are expected to complete in your free time for the elder like grocery shopping, meal preparation, or prescription pickup, ask someone else to help so you can have some time for yourself.

Home healthcare nurses in Hillsborough county understand how important your free time is, and you should be able to spend it doing what you want to do.

Tip 3: Join A Support Group

Joining a support group for caregivers is a great source of stress relief. You will be able to connect with other caregivers to talk about how you are feeling and possibly learn something from other caregivers.

Caregiver support groups are a great way to socialize with people who have similar experiences and will give you a network of people to reach out to when you need support.

If you are interested in finding out more about your local caregiver support groups, contact a home health care agency in Tampa to see if they can connect you with one.

Tip 4: Talk To Your Employer

It may be unrealistic for you to quit your job or work fewer hours to focus on caregiving. Talk to your employer to make them aware of your situation to see if there is anything they can do for you.

If it is not necessary for you to be at the office while you work, ask your employer if you can do remote work. Working remotely will allow you to better manage your time, and you can get work done while caregiving.

Tip 5: Set Personal Health Goals

It can be hard to focus on yourself when you are someone’s primary caregiver. Begin your stress-relief journey by setting personal goals that you want to accomplish.

The personal health goals that you set can be big (like running a marathon) or small (like getting at least 8 hours of sleep). Once you have determined your personal health goals, write them down somewhere that you will see every day.

Making your body healthier will benefit your mind in return, relieving stress one day at a time.

Tip 6: Enlist Outside Help

If you have tried other ways to relieve stress but are not seeing results, it may be best to enlist help from an outside source. If you are left with no time for yourself between caregiving and holding down a job, hiring caregivers for home health in Tampa is a great idea.

A home health care agency in Tampa is a trusted source for caregiving, meaning you don’t have to worry about your loved one while you enjoy your free time. Home healthcare nurses in Hillsborough county are knowledgeable and trained individuals that can cater to a variety of needs.

Caregivers for home health in Tampa can take some of the responsibility off your plate whether you want them to provide care every day, a few days a week, or for a weekend.

Leaving your loved one in the hands of a home healthcare nurse in Hillsborough county will benefit you and your loved one equally.

No Place Like Home Care

No Place Like Home Care is a leading caregiver in Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough County in Florida. This home health care agency near Tampa can provide care for your elderly loved one in the comfort of their own home.\

No Place Like Home Care’s experienced, compassionate and dependable caregivers provide loving care and assistance to help make their lives easier and to retain their independence while providing their families with the peace of mind that their loved ones are safe.

If you have tried many ways to reduce your stress while holding down a full-time job and being a caregiver, enlisting outside help will be the most effective.

While your loved one is being cared for by the individuals at No Place Like Home Care, you will have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.

Homebound Seniors – Stay Connected Through Technology

People are hardwired for connection. We need to stay in touch with our loved ones no matter where we live or what we do. Good communication has a positive impact on our physical and mental health, so it’s very important to keep it active. According to a research paper published by Mental Health America (MHA), good social connections improve health, increase happiness and lengthen life expectancy. The positive correlation between social interaction and the well-being of seniors is obvious.

Click here to learn more about in-home services for seniors in Seminole. We provide the best home health care for seniors in Tampa.

Unfortunately, staying in touch with our loved ones is tough during this period. Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, visiting parents or grandparents is difficult and risky. This leads to communication problems and seniors may feel isolated and lonely. Social distancing has created a variety of communication issues, but technology can help us keep in touch with our loved ones. Here’s how:

#1 – Use social media platforms

Facebook is the best platform to keep in touch with parents or grandparents. According to a report published by the Pew Research Center, seniors aged 65 and older are the fastest-growing demographic on Facebook. This group has grown 11 percent from 2018 to 2019, while millennial users only increased by 2 percent. There are a lot of seniors on Facebook, and the primary reason is the platform’s popularity – almost 70 percent of Americans have a Facebook profile. This means sharing photos, videos, or chatting with friends and family much easier.

All you have to do is search for a person in the search bar, send a friend request, or join groups or events. The platform also has a live-video feature, voice chat, and phone call tools.

#2 – Join an online community

The social media environment has evolved tremendously over the last decade. There are dozens of social media platforms to choose from and a variety of online communities to join. These platforms can help seniors stay in touch with others who share similar interests. For instance, there are online groups where you can talk and share opinions on a variety of topics, from crafts and hobbies to theater, film, and television, but also sports, history, arts, and countless more. Similarly, small local groups focused on a specific activity or club are also present. These include hobbyist groups, family circles and groups, high-school graduating classes, or arts and crafts groups.

Click here to learn more about in-home services for seniors in Seminole. We provide the best home health care for seniors in Tampa.

#3 – Use video calls vs. regular phone calls

Virtually all modern communication devices – smartphones, tablets, desktop computers, and laptops have webcams that let users make video calls for free. Participants on both ends can physically see who they are talking to during the call, improving communication immensely. Various video-call services are also free of charge, such as FaceTime, Skype, and Google Hangouts. These services work anywhere, as long as you have a good internet connection.

Video calls are great ways to communicate with your loved ones as they add a new layer to your conversations. Video calls make the experience special and help you communicate non-verbally much easier. Essentially, you see the person, so communication can be more complex. What’s more, video calls let you organize family meetings, where everyone can participate, see and hear each other, even if they are across the country. This is a major advantage for seniors who have adult grandchildren, as you can see how everyone is doing by seeing how they look like, but also how they sound like. Of course, you can also talk to the caregiver during the same video call.

#4 – Using the right apps

There are thousands of apps designed for senior users. These apps help both seniors and caregivers in a variety of ways. For instance, you can use the smartphone to track medication, monitor vital signs like respiration and heart rate, but also keep track of their location. Although there are a lot of different apps to choose from, try to choose apps that focus on a few basic functions. Go to the appropriate store (Google’s Google Play – for Android phones or Apple’s App Store – for iOS phones) and choose the app that does exactly what you are looking for. Make sure you check reviews and try it for a few days before using it.

Apps can also gather information about the user. This information can then be sent to caregivers, family, or doctors. For example, apps can gather data about a senior’s medical condition, mobility, and the medication administered. Apps also include geolocation features, so you know precisely where your parent or grandparent is at any given time.

Apps are amazing entertainment tools for seniors. According to a recent study, seniors often prefer to spend time reading or pursuing religious activities. Many apps are designed to help seniors stay informed, read news, watch television shows, read books or attend various virtual religious events.

Here are some of the most popular apps for seniors:

• Luminosity – free for basic plans – the perfect tool to train your brain
• Skype – free for basic plans – the ideal tool to keep in touch with your loved ones
• Zoom – free for basic plans – an amazing video-call app to keep in touch with parents and grandparents
• Pandora – free – the best music app
• Goodreads – free – book reviews and free books
• WebMD – free – free medical guides and resources
• MediSafe Medication Reminder – free – the ideal app for medication scheduling
• Readeo – $9.99 per month for full access – lets you have virtual story time with grandchildren; you can read more than 150 children’s books over video chat

Click here to learn more about in-home services for seniors in Seminole. We provide the best home health care for seniors in Tampa.

Caring for Elders While Holding a Job – Balancing Work and Caregiving

You work, you come home and you have another job – caregiving for your older parent or grandparent. You help someone who means everything to you, but you also have to work, and it’s incredibly demanding. You feel exhausted, you are overwhelmed and you don’t have time to rest.

Work can be rewarding, and so is caregiving. But together, they can be a disaster for your wellbeing. You often feel you have too much on your plate, and you want to get a break. However, you’ll need a strategy to balance both your work tasks and caregiving for a loved one.

Are you looking for a home health care agency in Tampa? Contact us here to get the best home healthcare nurse in Hillsborough!

How to manage day-to-day tasks

Get organized

You’ll have a lot to handle, and you won’t have enough time to organize everything properly. You must keep track of all your tasks. Create a calendar to help you schedule your tasks, track activities, doctor appointments or other simple issues you need to focus on. Try to make a schedule to include everyone who helps you.

Contact your local agency

Every urban area has a local agency on aging – contact them and explain your situation. They can provide help and may put you in contact with professional caregivers, if required.

Read the employee handbook

Your employer may have special policies for employees who also work as caregivers. Ask about flexbile work options or family leave. Check whether the company has an employee assistance program, which is a great resource for caregivers.

Keep your work separate

Try to separate your work tasks from your personal problems. This will help you become more productive and focus on your work tasks. Take care of your caregiving duties in your personal hours, not during work hours. For instance, schedule doctor appointments during your lunch hours.

Have a backup plan

Don’t do anything in a hurry. Make sure you have a backup plan if something goes wrong. For instance, if there’s an emergency, contact a coworker or a friend to help you. Talk to a co-worker to replace you while you attend to the emergency.

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Talk to your manager

If you are taking care of a loved one, it’s important to be open about it. Talk to your boss – make sure he or she knows about your responsibilities and that you have an important commitment. Also, make it very clear that you are still putting in 100 percent at work and you will still be devoted to the company.

Ask about flexible work opportunities

Flexible work is a great benefit if you are also caring for a loved one. It will make your life easier, and you will still be able to be productive at work. Ask if the company offers flexible work opportunities or if there’s a possibility to work remotely. Data shows that most companies can make this possible – in a recent study, over 68 percent of companies said they are able to make work accommodations for employees who care for elders. Also, ask whether you can work remotely a few days per week. Try to come up with a plan that meets all your needs – this will help you when negotiating with your manager.

Schedule a meeting

These matters should be discussed in a meeting. Don’t bring this up during the lunch break or the coffee break. Talk to your HR representative and manager openly about your needs. Schedule a meeting with everyone involved in the decision-making process.

Make it clear that you are still focused on your job

Whenever you ask for a day off or to work remotely, make sure you explain that work is still your #1 priority. Your boss should be sure that you get your work done according to plan. For instance, if you can’t work during the morning, be open about this, and make sure you can work during the evening. It may be tough for your schedule, but it’s important.

Don’t wait for an emergency

Unfortunately, many people bring this up only when an emergency occurs. Don’t do this, as it can cause a lot of stressful situations at your workplace. For instance, you may not be able to take a day off, or your manager won’t be supportive about your problems. Be open about your personal issues before any emergency occurs.

The FMLA may help you

The Family Medical Leave Act, also known as the FMLA, may help you a lot. Under this legislation, you may be eligible to take up to 12 weeks off every year, without pay. The law has some special provisions:

• you must meet specific requirements – firstly, you must work for a company that has at least 50 employees, a government agency or school; state laws may include other provisions; you must be employed there for at least 12 months, and must have worked for at least 1,250 hours before taking the time off;

• you may need to use your vacation first – your employer can ask you to use your vacation time first, in order to maintain FMLA eligibility;

• you are not required to take your leave all at once – you can take smaller chunks as you see fit, depending on your situation.

Have a contingency plan

Life happens, and a lot of well planned situations can go awry. Try to have a detailed contingency plan for these scenarios. Perhaps even consider having a contingency plan for the contingency plan. Consider everything that can cause problems. For instance, consider every “what if” situation and analyse it in-depth. For instance, think about business travel – what if the company asks you to fly to a different city for a business trip? What if you have an important deadline at work and simply cannot take care of your personal responsibilities? Try to look for help everywhere you can – family members, friends or coworkers.

Are you looking for a home health care agency in Tampa? Contact us here to get the best home healthcare nurse in Hillsborough!