Thoughtful Care

Does Medicare Pay for Respite Care services?

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 15:45:01 GMT

If you are the primary caregiver for an elderly loved one, there may be times where the emotional and physical toll starts to weigh on you. Even though you enjoy taking care of your loved and are cherishing these moments, it's perfectly normal to need a break.

Because of this, you may be considering hiring a respite care service for your break period. You may also start to wonder if Medicare pays for respite care services?

To help answer any questions you have about respite care and what Medicare covers, this blog post will dive into those aspects of caregiving to help you move forward.

Understanding Respite Care

Respite care is a valuable service that provides temporary relief to primary caregivers, allowing them to take a break and recharge.

Respite Care provides many benefits:

Reduced Caregiver Stress
Improved Care Quality
Enhanced Well-Being
Time for Self-Care
Peace of Mind

Caring for a loved one can be emotionally taxing, and burnout is a real concern. Respite care allows caregivers to step away temporarily, reducing stress and preventing caregiver fatigue.

Medicare Overview

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for seniors aged 65 and older and individuals with certain disabilities. It consists of various parts, including Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage). While Medicare provides valuable coverage for many medical services, it's essential to understand its limitations.

Does Medicare Cover Respite Care?

Unfortunately in most cases, Medicare does not cover the costs of respite care in Overland Park. Medicare is primarily focused on medical services, hospital care, and skilled nursing care, not custodial care or non-medical services like those provided in a respite care setting.

But there are exceptions. In certain situations Medicare may partially cover respite care services, such as when it is a part of hospice care.

Alternative Funding Options

While Medicare doesn't usually cover respite care, there are alternative funding options to explore:

Medicaid: Medicaid programs in some states offer respite care coverage for eligible individuals. The availability and criteria for Medicaid respite care vary by state.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits: If your loved one is a veteran, they may be eligible for VA benefits that can provide respite care support.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance policies may include coverage for respite care. Check the terms and conditions of the policy to see if it applies.
Local Programs and Non-Profit Organizations: Many communities offer respite care programs or non-profit organizations that provide financial assistance or respite care services.

Navigating The Cost Of Respite Care

With the limitations of Medicare coverage for respite care, it's important for caregivers and family to plan ahead for these types of situations.

Here are some tips to help you be prepared when you need it:

Budgeting: Include respite care costs in your overall caregiving budget. Plan for periodic breaks to ensure you can continue to provide care effectively.
Exploring Options: Research different respite care providers and options. Some may offer sliding-scale fees or financial assistance.
Financial Assistance: Investigate available financial assistance programs or grants specifically designed to support caregivers in need of respite care.
Consulting Experts: Consider consulting with a financial advisor or eldercare expert who can help you navigate the financial aspects of caregiving and respite care.

REspite Care In Kansas City

Respite care is an important part of caregiving that allows caregivers to take a well-deserved break, recharge, and provide better care for their loved ones. It's an essential piece to caregiving and important to seek out when you need it.

If you're seeking respite care in the Kansas City-area, don't hesitate to contact Thoughtful Care . Our team of caregivers is here for when you need it most.

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises?

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 22:23:44 GMT

As we age, one aspect of our health that often gets overlooked is our balance. Maintaining good balance is essential for senior citizens as it directly impacts their safety, independence, and overall well-being.

In this blog post, Thoughtful Care will explore why balance exercises are crucial for people as we age and how they can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults.

Understanding the Issue

Balance is something we often take for granted in our youth, but it becomes increasingly challenging as we age. Senior citizens commonly face issues related to balance and stability. Reduced muscle mass, changes in vision and hearing, and medical conditions can all contribute to these challenges. The consequences of poor balance can be severe, including falls and injuries that may lead to hospitalization and a decline in overall health.

The Benefits of Balance Exercises

So, why should senior citizens make an effort to perform balance exercises regularly? The benefits are numerous and impactful:

Physical Benefits

Balance exercises can significantly improve stability, strength, and flexibility. These exercises focus on enhancing core strength and leg muscles, which are essential for maintaining balance. As seniors grow stronger and more flexible, they are less likely to experience falls and injuries.

Cognitive Benefits

It may surprise you, but balance exercises also have cognitive benefits. Engaging in these activities challenges the brain to coordinate movements and maintain equilibrium. This stimulation can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

Improved Quality of Life

By enhancing balance, seniors can regain or maintain their independence. They can continue to perform daily activities without relying heavily on others, which can boost their self-esteem and overall quality of life.

Types of Balance Exercises

There are various types of balance exercises that are suitable for senior citizens:

Static Balance Exercises

Static exercises involve maintaining a stationary position without moving. Examples include standing on one leg or holding a specific pose.

Dynamic Balance Exercises

Dynamic exercises involve movement while maintaining balance, such as walking heel-to-toe or stepping over obstacles.

Tai Chi and Yoga

Tai Chi and yoga are holistic approaches that combine physical and mental aspects to improve balance and overall well-being.

To get started, consider simple exercises like standing on one leg while brushing your teeth or practicing seated leg raises. As you progress, you can explore more advanced routines or consider enrolling in a balance-focused class.

Addressing Concerns and Safety

We understand that seniors and their caregivers may have concerns about balance exercises. Safety is paramount, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen. They can provide guidance on which exercises are suitable and safe for individual needs.

Getting Started

Getting started with balance exercises can be easier than you think. Here are some practical tips:

Start with basic exercises and gradually increase the difficulty.
Consider enrolling in a local balance class.
Seek the guidance of a physical therapist or trainer experienced in senior fitness.

Get The Care You Deserve

Balance exercises are not just a fitness trend; they are a vital component of senior well-being. By improving balance through regular exercises, senior citizens can enhance their physical and cognitive health, reduce the risk of falls, and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Receiving the right care is essential as we get older. If you or a loved one are looking for personalized senior caregiving solutions in the Kansas City Area, give Thoughtful Care a call. We are here to help you or your loved one live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

What is a Geriatric Nursing Assistant and what Services do they Provide?

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:15:00 GMT

At Thoughtful Care, we are proud to be a Kansas City-owned and operated provider of caregiver support for families seeking senior care services. Our mission is to enhance the lives of seniors and their families by offering professional care tailored to their unique needs.

In this blog post, we will dive into the important role played by Geriatric Nursing Assistants (GNAs), and the invaluable services they provide to seniors.

Who Are Geriatric Nursing Assistants (GNAs)?

A Geriatric Nursing Assistant , often referred to as a GNA, is a healthcare professional trained to provide specialized care for elderly individuals. These dedicated professionals play a crucial role in the overall well-being and quality of life of our senior loved ones. They receive specialized training to address the unique needs and challenges that come with aging.

Why Are GNAs Important in Senior Care?

The aging population in the United States is growing rapidly, making the need for specialized senior care services increasingly important. Seniors often face various challenges, including chronic illnesses, mobility issues, and cognitive decline. GNAs are specifically trained to address these issues with compassion and expertise, improving the quality of life for our aging loved ones.

Core Services Provided by GNAs

Personal Care Assistance: GNAs assist seniors with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. They ensure that seniors maintain their dignity and comfort while receiving essential personal care.
Medication Management: GNAs play a vital role in medication administration and monitoring. They help seniors take their medications as prescribed, keeping a close eye on any potential side effects or interactions.
Mobility Support: Maintaining mobility is essential for senior health. GNAs assist seniors with mobility exercises and help them move safely around their homes, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
Emotional Support: Loneliness and depression can be common among seniors. GNAs provide companionship and emotional support, engaging in meaningful conversations and activities to uplift the spirits of their clients.
Reporting and Communication: GNAs keep families and healthcare professionals informed about the senior's condition. They document any changes in health or behavior and communicate effectively to ensure that the senior's needs are met promptly.

GNAs vs. Other Caregivers

It's important to note that GNAs are distinct from other caregivers, such as home health aides or family caregivers. They receive specialized training in geriatric care , which equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the unique challenges faced by seniors effectively.

Benefits of Choosing Thoughtful Care for GNA Services

When you choose Thoughtful Care for GNA services, you are choosing a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about senior care. Our GNAs are experienced and well-trained, ensuring that your loved ones receive the best possible care. We take a personalized approach, tailoring our services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each senior we serve.

Experience the Thoughtful Care Difference

As you can see, Geriatric Nursing Assistants are essential members of the senior care team, providing a wide range of services that improve the lives of elderly individuals. As the aging population continues to grow, the need for specialized senior care services, like those provided by GNAs, becomes increasingly vital.

If you are seeking professional caregiver support for your senior loved ones, consider Thoughtful Care as your trusted partner in ensuring their well-being and comfort.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our GNA services , please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Thoughtful Care today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help enhance the quality of life for your loved ones in their golden years.

How Many Hours can a Caregiver Work in a Day?

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 18:43:56 GMT

Caring for elderly loved ones is a responsibility that many families take on with dedication and compassion. However, it's essential to strike a balance between providing quality care and ensuring the well-being of caregivers themselves.

One comm on thing families wonder about is h ow many hours can a caregiver work in a day? In this blog, we'll explore this concern and shed light on the factors that influence caregiver work hours, legal considerations, and the importance of preventing caregiver burnout.

The Concern:
Balancing Caregiver Hours

Families seeking caregiving services have unique situations and often wonder about the appropriate number of hours a caregiver can work in a day. This concern is rooted in the desire to provide the best possible care to their elderly family members while also acknowledging the limitations of caregivers.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Understanding the legal and ethical considerations regarding caregiver work hours is crucial. Regulations may vary from one location to another, but they typically exist to protect both caregivers and the seniors they care for. It's essential to adhere to these standards to ensure that caregivers receive fair treatment and seniors receive the best care possible.

Factors Influencing Caregiver Work Hours

Several factors can influence the number of hours a caregiver can work in a day:

Caregiver Experience and Training: Experienced caregivers may handle longer shifts more effectively, but proper training is vital for all caregivers.
Specific Needs and Health Condition: The health and specific needs of the elderly person play a significant role in determining caregiver hours.
Shift Schedules and Rest Periods: Caregivers should have adequate rest periods to avoid burnout. Proper shift scheduling is essential.
Local Labor Laws and Regulations: Compliance with local labor laws and regulations is a must.

Caregiver Burnout:
Why It Matters

Caregiver burnout is a real concern. When caregivers work excessively long hours without breaks, they may experience physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. This burnout not only affects the quality of care but also the well-being of caregivers themselves.

Ideal Work Hours for Caregivers

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of caregiver work hours, industry standards and best practices suggest that caregivers should work reasonable shifts with adequate breaks. Flexibility in caregiving schedules is crucial to accommodate the unique needs of each client.

Respite care can be a lifeline for caregivers. It provides temporary relief, allowing caregivers to take breaks, rest, and rejuvenate. Respite care ensures that caregivers can continue to provide high-quality care without compromising their health and well-being.

The key to successful caregiving is tailoring hours and services to the individual needs and preferences of seniors and their families. At Thoughtful Care, we will work closely with families to create a personalized care plan that meets these unique requirements.

Compassionate Care, Tailored to Your Needs

Balancing caregiver work hours is essential for the well-being of both caregivers and seniors. It's a complex issue influenced by various factors, including legal regulations, the specific needs of seniors, and the importance of preventing caregiver burnout.

At Thoughtful Care , we understand these challenges and are committed to providing compassionate, tailored caregiving solutions that prioritize the well-being of both caregivers and seniors.

If you have questions or need assistance with caregiving services, please don't hesitate to contact us . Our team of dedicated caregivers is here to provide the support and care your family deserves.

Can Someone With Dementia Sign Legal Documents?

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 15:00:06 GMT

Legal procedures require a sound mind to understand a document's content, significance, and potential consequences to make an informed decision. Amidst the challenges posed by the sickness, a critical question emerges: can someone with dementia sign legal documents?

The impact of this illness on cognitive function raises concerns about an individual's ability to fully comprehend the implications of signing legal documents. There is a thin line between preserving autonomy and preventing potential mistakes due to the condition's progressive nature.

In this p ost, we'll cover what you need to know about the relationship between dementia and legal capacity. So, can someone with dementia sign legal documents? Let's find out.

Understanding Dementia and its Implications

Dementia , a progressive cognitive disorder, diminishes one's mental faculties over time. This condition is characterized by a range of symptoms, including:

Memory loss
Confusion
Language difficulties
Impaired judgment

As dementia progresses, these symptoms worsen, potentially affecting decision-making capabilities. These cognitive impairments also cast doubts on a person's ability to fully understand the consequences of signing legal documents for dementia patients .

Capacity to Sign Legal Documents

Understanding the concept of cognitive ability is necessary when considering whether you or someone you care for with dementia can sign legal documents. For a signature to be legally valid, the signee must:

Be of sound mind: You must comprehend the nature and significance of your actions
Willingly sign the document: Not be under any duress

The goal is to prevent exploitation or manipulation, especially when dementia renders you more vulnerable.

You should know that the legal standard for capacity can vary based on the document type. The standard also might be relatively straightforward for simple documents like contracts or agreements: you must understand the content, and consequences, and sign without coercion.

However, for more intricate matters like wills, a higher level of capacity - known as " testamentary capacity " is essential. This means you must grasp the value of your assets, know your beneficiaries, and the act of distributing your estate while signing. It safeguards against potential challenges to the will's legitimacy later on.

While dementia can impact your cognitive abilities, it doesn't necessarily mean you cannot sign legal documents altogether. It hinges on your capacity to comprehend and make informed decisions when signing.

Challenges and Risks

You should be aware of the risks of allowing people with dementia to sign legal documents . These include:

Risk of Legal Challenges

Legal documents signed without proper mental capacity are at risk of being legally contested. Those contesting the documents could also argue that the person with dementia was incapable of making informed decisions at the time of signing, rendering the documents invalid or subject to revision.

Limited Understanding of Implications

Dementia impairs cognitive functions, making it challenging for individuals to comprehend the consequences of their actions fully. They might also not grasp the long-term effects of the documents they're signing, leading to unintended outcomes.

Influence and Manipulation

Dementia renders individuals more susceptible to the influence of others. Those around them might exploit this vulnerability, pressuring them into making decisions they wouldn't otherwise make. This raises concerns about the authenticity of the intent of the person with dementia when signing legal documents.

Emotional Impact

Signing legal documents can have emotional implications for the person with dementia and their family members. If the person does not fully understand the documents they are signing, they might experience confusion, anxiety, or distress, affecting those around them.

It's also crucial to approach legal document signing with caution to protect the rights and interests of individuals with dementia. Consider patient advocacy services to help mitigate these vulnerabilities and safeguard the patient's well-being.

Get the Help You Need

So, can someone with dementia sign legal documents? While someone with dementia might still be able to sign legal documents, it's essential to prioritize their well-being and ensure that their decisions are made with clarity and free from manipulation. If you or your loved one is facing this challenging situation, seek professional advice from legal and healthcare professionals to provide valuable insights.

Consider reaching out to Thoughtful Care , a dedicated provider of senior home care services in Kansas City. Our experienced team understands the intricate balance between legal considerations and the holistic care of individuals with dementia. Contact us today to request a free in-home assessment or for our patient advocacy services.

Can You Visit a Dementia Patient Too Much?

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:30:00 GMT

When someone you love suffers from dementia , you still want to visit with that person and maintain a relationship. Even if your loved one has trouble remembering people or events, he or she can benefit from the social interaction and good feelings that accompany a visit.

But how often should you visit your family member or friend? Is there such a thing as visiting a dementia patient too much? Let's take a closer look.

The Importance of Social Interaction

Social interaction is key to improving the quality of life for dementia patients. Just one hour of personalized interaction each week , say researchers at the University of Exeter, can reduce agitation and aggression.

Unfortunately, even the best care facilities can't provide this level of interaction for each patient. The average resident gets just two minutes of personalized attention per week. Visits from loved ones can help fill this gap and increase feelings of well-being.

Benefits of Regular Visits FOR Dementia Patients

There are many benefits when deciding to visit a loved one with Dementia and choosing to spend time with them.

A BBC survey found that 42% of people think there's no reason to visit dementia patients, especially if they don't recognize family or friends. But research shows that patients – even if they forget their identity – can have feelings of well-being during a visit and show reduced levels of agitation .

In addition, regular visits with one-on-one attention can help your loved one feel connected and socially engaged. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Associa tion found that the quality of life for patients with regular visitors was higher, based on personal, interpersonal and environmental factors. Dementia patients with regular visitors also show greater cognitive stimulation.

Balancing Visits with Individual Needs

Some patients, at some times, may seem unhappy with you during your visit. That's a sad reality of this devastating disease, but it can be challenging to plan visits that seem to just upset your loved one.

Try to balance the stage of dementia that your loved one is in with their preferences. Talk with the caregiving team to balance your desire to see your loved one, their needs for social interaction and connection and their behavior. You might consider shorter visits to see if that helps keep your loved one calm.

Signs of Overstimulation or Fatigue

Visits with a dementia patient can sometimes result in increased confusion or agitation. Because of the way the brain's frontal lobe is impacted by the disease , it's harder for a patient to be focused for periods of time. They may show signs of overstimulation like:

Trouble following what you're saying
Extreme frustration
Anger or agitation
Reduction in activity

When you see some or all of these symptoms of fatigue and overstimulation, you can wrap up your visit.

Quality vs. Quantity

Remember that quality visits are more important than quantity or frequency. Try to bring something from your loved one's past, like a favorite song or family photo, that can bring up happy memories.

Talk about their interests and hobbies and give them an opportunity to tell you stories from their past, even if you've heard them before. Make eye contact and address them by name so they know you're listening and interested.

Providing the Best Care for Dementia Patients

Talking and spending one-on-one time is beneficial to any patient with dementia. Plan regular, short visits to maintain connections and improve social interaction with your loved one.

As your family member navigates the challenges of coping with dementia, having in-home caregiver support when you can't be there is important. No matter how often you visit or how long you stay, you need the peace of mind that your loved one is properly cared for when you're not there.

The professionals at Thoughtful Care can provide assistance for those in the Kansas City area. Contact us to talk about our care options as frequently as 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Unlocking the Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 22:37:43 GMT

Recently, the number of seniors playing video games has grown significantly. With more than 10 million Americans aged 50 and older becoming active gamers . This has led to an increase in video games and video platforms designed specifically for seniors.

Besides providing entertainment, video games have proven to benefit seniors, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical benefits.

In this blog post, we will explore and give some tips on how beginners can get started. Moreover, we'll discuss the benefits of video games for seniors and why you should try them.

Cognitive Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Like with all other ages, playing video games has cognitive benefits for seniors. Playing video games has been liked to enhance memory and attention to detail. It helps with remembering names, physical addresses, dates, and phone numbers. They also force players to switch between tasks quickly, increasing mental flexibility and creativity.

Also, video games, including puzzle games and simulations, improve problem-solving skills, which are helpful in daily situations.

Physical Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Video games have several physical benefits, especially the ones that use consoles. Motion-controlled games like Mario Kart Tour, Rush Rally, and Nintendo promote physical activity and exercise. They encourage seniors to engage in movements that enhance motor skills, coordination, balance, and flexibility, contributing to overall physical health.

Some seniors have reported faster hand and eye coordination and walking speeds after playing video games.

Social Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Playing video games allows seniors to interact with more people of all ages worldwide. Multi-player games like Chess enable seniors to play individual games to feel more connected to the rest of the world, thus reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Video games also enable seniors to build and maintain friendships through online gaming platforms and communities, or playing in-person games with friends and family. This contributes to better social functioning among seniors suffering from social anxiety and also contributes to their emotional well-being.

Whether it's VCR games, puzzles, or simulations, video games help seniors improve their emotional health through many positive effects. They provide stress relief and relaxation by allowing seniors to escape from their daily life, even if only momentarily.

In addition, video games also lower the rate of depression, significantly boosting mood and emotional resilience since they provide a sense of accomplishment as seniors achieve goals and rise to the next level. Most active senior gamers look forward to the following day because it comes with a new challenge for them to accomplish, making their life less monotonous.

Cognitive Training and Prevention of Age-Related Conditions

According to research conducted in 2017, video games help seniors with cognitive training and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Regular gaming sessions grow the brain, especially the hippocampus, associated with memory and Alzheimer's and dementia progression. Playing video games helps seniors exercise their brains in a way that learning piano and other physical games can't.

A recent study by the University of California San Francisco showed that seniors who played 3D games showed signs of reverse aging. Additionally, the mental stimulation that results when seniors play video games exercises various cognitive abilities and helps them function and improve over time.

Tips For Starting Seniors On Video Games

Video games for seniors may seem intimidating to beginners who have never played them before. If you or a loved one is looking into exploring video games, here are a few tips to get you started:

Pick simple and easy video games to ease you into the gaming experience. Challenging games with complex controls can discourage beginners even before they start.
Use gaming platforms that are specially for seniors. They differ from the regular platforms because they offer accessibility features, including larger text, easier control, and adjustable audio.
Pick a video game close to your interests, whether word games, simulations, racing, or puzzle games, for a more engaging experience.
Look into accessible gaming equipment to make their playing time easier.

Tackle cognitive training together

Video games have evolved from a teenage pastime to a more dynamic and inclusive form of entertainment with massive social, physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits for seniors.

To explore the gaming experience, start with simple games and reap the undeniable benefits. If you feel like your loved one's life would be enhanced by playing video games don't hesitate to explore the world of video games for seniors.

Visit Thoughtful Care's website to learn more about our services and discover how we help our senior clients with cognitive training. Or, give us a call today!

The Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Dementia Patients in the Summer

Mon, 29 May 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Dementia is an umbrella term that describes various neurological conditions that cause a decline in cognitive function. This can include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and changes in language and behavior. If you or your loved one has dementia, engaging in meaningful outdoor activities for dementia patients could help boost your physical and mental well-being.

However, you should pick an ideal time, such as summer, when the weather is more favorable to make the most of the activities.

Here is why outdoor activities for dementia patients in the summer are crucial.

Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Dementia Patients

The power of nature and the great outdoors can bring numerous physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits to individuals with dementia.

Physical Benefits

Engaging in outdoor activities can provide several physical benefits for dementia patients . Nature walks improve cardiovascular health, mobility, and muscle strength. Light outdoor exercises and yoga enhance flexibility, and balance, preventing falls.

Cognitive Benefits

Outdoor activities stimulate cognitive abilities in dementia patients. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can awaken memories and evoke positive emotions. For instance, taking a scenic drive or going on nature walks allows patients to explore new environments, triggering their senses and engaging their cognitive functions. Research suggests that exposure to nature can improve attention span , memory, and overall cognitive performance.

Emotional Benefits

Nature calms and relaxes, reducing anxiety, stress, and agitation. It brings joy, happiness, and tranquility, promoting social interaction for dementia patients to connect with others and make new friends.

Preparing for Outdoor Activities

Before engaging in outdoor activities for dementia patients, it would help to make the necessary preparations. Some key considerations include:

Safety: Ensure the outdoor environment is safe and secure. Remove any potential hazards and create a dementia-friendly space that minimizes the risk of accidents or injuries.
Comfort: Dress the individual appropriately for the weather conditions and consider bringing essentials such as hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Also, plan for breaks and rest periods as needed.
Familiarity: Choose locations or activities the dementia patient has previously enjoyed. Familiarity can provide a sense of comfort and reduce confusion or disorientation.

Outdoor Activity Ideas for Dementia Patients & Their Benefits

Nature Walks and Scenic Drives

Taking leisurely walks in parks, gardens, or nature trails lets dementia patients connect with nature, breathe fresh air, and enjoy peaceful surroundings. Moreover, scenic drives through picturesque areas can be calming and visually stimulating.

Gardening and Horticultural Therapy

Engaging in gardening activities can provide dementia patients with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Activities like planting flowers, watering plants, or tending to a small vegetable patch can promote sensory stimulation, boost mood, and improve agility.

Outdoor Picnics and Barbecues

Organizing outdoor picnics or barbecues allows dementia patients to socialize with family and friends while enjoying a meal in a pleasant outdoor setting. These events encourage social interaction, reminiscence, and sensory stimulation through the taste and smell of food.

Animal Therapy or Visiting Petting Zoos

Interacting with animals can be therapeutic for dementia patients. For example, animal therapy sessions or visits to petting zoos provide opportunities for sensory stimulation, emotional connection, and enhanced social interaction.

Fishing or Bird-Watching

Fishing or bird-watching activities offer opportunities for relaxation and engagement with nature. Dementia patients participating in these activities can boost their focus, patience, and sensory stimulation through the sights and sounds of wildlife.

Light Outdoor Exercises and Yoga

Tailored exercises and gentle yoga sessions conducted outdoors can improve flexibility, strength, and balance in dementia patients. Additionally, they can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation among patients.

Outdoor Art and Craft Activities

Additionally, outdoor activities like art and crafts can boost creativity, bring a sense of achievement, uplift mood, and enhance cognitive stimulation in dementia patients.

Get Reliable Care for Dementia

Outdoor activities benefit dementia patients physically, mentally, and emotionally, improving their well-being and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one needs dependable dementia care, seek assistance from Thoughtful Care .

Our experienced caregivers are trained to provide compassionate support and personalized care for individuals with dementia. We understand the unique needs and challenges of this condition, and our team is dedicated to promoting the well-being and quality of life of dementia patients. Contact us today to learn about our dementia care services for seniors.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Dementia Patients

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:00:01 GMT

As Mother's Day approaches, many of us are looking for ways to show our appreciation for the special women in our lives. However, for those whose mothers or grandmothers are living with dementia, finding Mother's Day Gift ideas that are meaningful and enjoyable can be a challenge.

Dementia can cause changes in memory, cognition, and behavior, making it difficult for individuals with the condition to engage in activities they once enjoyed. So, you want something stimulating their minds, bringing smiles, and offering comfort. The gift idea must be appropriate for their unique cognitive abilities and preferences.

These Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Dementia Patients Are Worth Considering

If you're struggling to find gifts for your loved one, consider a few of these options:

Personalized Photo Album

A photo album with pictures of family members, friends, pets, or places can help your loved one recall happy memories and feel connected to their loved ones. You may add captions or labels to the photos to provide more context and information.

Music Therapy Kit

Music has a powerful impact on individuals with dementia , as it evokes emotions, memories, and associations. It stimulates the brain, improves mood, promotes calmness, and reduces agitation and boredom. Get your loved one headphone or speakers for better sound quality.

Adult Coloring Books

Coloring books are a fun and engaging way to stimulate the mind of dementia patients. An NIH study shows that coloring improves dementia's physiological and behavioral symptoms. It also increases mindfulness, reduces stress, and boosts a person's mood. Look for dementia coloring books with stimulating designs to help improve cognitive function and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Comfortable Bathrobe

As people age, their priorities shift towards physical comfort and clothing that is easy to wear without requiring assistance. Giving your mother a comfortable bathrobe can be an ideal gift, as it can serve as an additional layer of warmth or a quick and effortless cover-up after a shower. This thoughtful gesture will ensure that your mother experiences daily comfort and convenience.

Personalized Mug or Tumbler

A personalized mug or tumbler is one of the best practical and sentimental Mother's Day gift ideas for dementia patients. It helps keep your loved one hydrated and feel appreciated. Customize the mug or tumbler with their name, initials, favorite color, or a meaningful message or quote. Add photos of their loved ones or pets to make it more personal.

Dementia-Friendly Puzzles

A recent study shows that puzzles and games for dementia care are a great way to keep your loved one's mind active. They improve memory, cognitive function, attention, problem-solving, social interaction, motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. A dementia-friendly puzzle has larger pieces and familiar images that are easy to recognize and play with. You can find puzzles with different themes, such as flowers, animals, or landscapes.

Weighted Blanket or Lap Pad

A weighted blanket or lap pad provides a soothing effect for dementia patients, especially those who experience anxiety, agitation, or restlessness. The gentle weight of the blanket or pillow mimics the feeling of being hugged or cuddled. This helps your mom or grandma feel calmer and secure, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Beauty Gift Set

If your mom or grandma enjoys pampering herself, a beauty gift set is a thoughtful gift. Choose a collection that includes her favorite products, such as nail polish, lipstick, face mask, or lotion. A beauty gift set allows your mom or grandma to feel beautiful, maintain her self-esteem, and provide sensory stimulation and fun.

Colorful Flowers

Flowers are a classic gift that brightens your mom's or grandma's day and environment. They help stimulate the senses of sight and smell and evoke positive emotions and memories. Choose flowers with a special meaning, such as her birth, favorite, or wedding flower, for a sensational impact.

Give The gift of care

Choosing a thoughtful Mother's Day gift for a loved one dealing with dementia can make a big difference in their day. From personalized photo albums to colorful flowers, many Mother's Day gift ideas for dementia patients exist.

Another great idea is to seek compassionate care for your loved one, and in such cases, Thoughtful Care is your go-to destination. We specialize in providing the best home dementia care services in Kansas City, tailored to loved ones' needs.

Our professional caregivers have excellent training and experience to keep your loved one comfortable and secure at home and improve their quality of life. Contact us to learn more about our dementia care services today. Feel free to request a free in-home assessment, and let us make this Mother's Day special for your loved one.

How Hospital Sitter Services Improve The Patient Experience

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 15:00:07 GMT

Hospital sitter services are becoming more and more popular in today's hospital settings. These certified aides provide an important service to ensure the safety and comfort of hospital patients. These specialized services provide around-the-clock care for those who cannot be left alone, such as elderly or disabled patients. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the key benefits that hospital sitter services can offer hospitals and their patients.

What Is A Hospital Sitter?

A hospital sitter provides companionship and supervision for a patient that needs assistance. Hospital sitters can assist with providing comfort and support to patients recovering from surgery or illness, while also watching over the emotional health of the individual in their care. They are often employed by hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. It's their way to supplement nursing staff and improve patient satisfaction and recovery efforts.

Hospital sitters go through specialized training in order to understand how to approach different situations that can arise with patients. They must be aware of how a patient's condition can change throughout their stay, recognize changes in behavior that might indicate a medical issue or decline in condition, as well as alert medical personnel if necessary. Additionally, they must be able to provide companionship and support during what is in all likelihood a very emotionally taxing time for the patie n t.

Why Hospital Sitters Are Important For Patients

Hospital sitters are invaluable for helping patients complete tasks safely, as falls are an all-too-common occurrence with dire consequences in healthcare, especially among elderly patients. A 2020 study noted that between 700,000 and 1 million hospitalized patients fell yearly, with up to half of them sustaining significant injury. These falls comprise an additional healthcare cost of over $34 billion annually.

Even the presence of a 'virtual' hospital sitter resulted in a 14% decline in fall rates, with the prospect of an in-person sitter likely to reduce them even further. Without the presence of an individual to help them and or a way to alert medical staff, hospital patients may feel the need to get out of bed to handle tasks themselves which can lead to injury.

Services Provided By Hospital Sitters

Hospital sitters play a vital role in healthcare, as they can supervise patients and assist them with basic tasks more immediately than a nurse may be able to, which frees up nurse resources for their more specialized duties. Offloading some of these duties to a sitter has been linked to an improved work environment for nurses, which translates directly into better patient outcomes .

Hospital sitters provide more than just physical support, they also provide emotional support to those who need it. During a hospital stay, patients may be suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, during which a voice of comfort and understanding is greatly needed.

Hospital sitters can listen to patients' needs and help them express their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment, as well as provide reassurance for those who may feel overwhelmed by their situation. Having an empathetic companion during what is often a difficult time of life offers great comfort to those recovering in a healthcare setting.

Here's a look at some services Hospital Sitters may provide on a daily basis:

Observing and monitoring the patient to ensure their safety
Attending to patient needs
Providing companionship and emotional support to patients
Notifying medical professionals about patient development
Documenting any changes in the patient's condition
Intervening in emergencies
Assisting with basic activities of daily living, such as eating and using the bathroom
Assisting in administering medications
Bathing, grooming, and dressing the patient
Maintaining a clean environment for the patient

The Skills That Hospital Sitters Need To Be Successful

On top of basic communication and interpersonal skills, hospital sitters must have knowledge of medical terminology and healthcare processes so that they can understand the patient's condition, and know whether they can assist the patient directly or defer to nurses or doctors. Hospital sitters also need to have keen observational skills, so they can recognize any changes in the patient's behavior or health status.

Additionally, hospital sitters need to be highly empathetic and understanding when conversing with patients, providing emotional support not only through listening but also by being a source of comfort and assurance.

Looking For Hospital Sitter Services? Call Thoughtful Care Today!

Hospital sitters provide an invaluable service for both patients and medical staff. Their presence is linked directly to both an improved working environment for medical staff and the emotional and physical well-being of the patient. Hospital sitters from Thoughtful Care provide a gentle, sympathetic touch that can ensure your patient is well-cared for as you handle work or family obligations. Reach out to schedule a consultation today .

Patient Advocacy Strategies: The Benefits and Their Importance

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:15:00 GMT

When a patient puts their lives into the hands of healthcare providers or a health facility, they expect the best outcome. However, this does not always happen. The rights of patients get violated from time to time. Patient advocacy strategies help advocate for patients' rights and help them navigate the healthcare system.

Patient advocacy programs not only ensure patients get the best possible treatment but also improve the relationship between them and healthcare providers. Advocacy strategies help keep patients safe and improve communities.

What Is Patient Advocacy?

Patient advocacy is the way in which individuals or healthcare professionals support or promote various healthcare systems. These people speak on behalf of patients who are not able to speak for themselves. Advocating for patients involves collaborating with different bodies, such as legal representatives, doctors, or key decision-makers, to make important decisions and solve various challenges that patients may experience. Advocates help patients by:

Committing to patient healthcare
Offering equal treatment to their patients
Preventing suffering
Protecting patients rights
Respecting the dignity of patients

Patient advocacy programs ensure patients get the best treatment whenever they need it. It also ensures their rights are protected at all times. Generally, advocacy programs ensure the safety and welfare of patients and their communities.

Types of Patient Advocacy Strategies

There are a few different types of patient advocacy strategies, including:

Medical Facility Advocacy

When patients seek treatment in a medical facility, they need someone to take care of their needs and offer the best treatment options. Patient advocates can act on behalf of the patient and be a link to the doctor or the facility. They'll ensure patients receive an accurate diagnosis, clear instructions, and the best care.

Family Advocacy

Advocates educate patients' families about the needs of the patient and the kind of care they need. They can help solve disputes or misunderstandings between the patient and the family members. Additionally, advocates can help family members seek the best treatment for their loved ones.

Legal System Advocacy

Advocacy strategies can help advocate for the patient by ensuring they receive the treatment required without breaking the law. They'll represent the patients in legal ways to ensure their rights are considered in everything aspect of their treatment.

How Patient Advocates Help in Navigating the Healthcare System

Healthcare systems are becoming more complex , and even the most informed patients can have a difficult time keeping track of treatment, getting the right medication, and ensuring no one breaks their rights. Patient advocates help relieve patients of this burden and ensure they navigate the healthcare system with ease.

With the help of health advocates, patients and their families will have an easy time getting the assistance they need. Some ways patient advocates help with navigating the healthcare system include

Helping patients get access to healthcare needs
Educating patients about their rights
Ensuring patients make informed decisions regarding their health and that of their loved ones
Explaining different phenomena, including insurance, medical care, and administrative and legal tasks

Benefits of Patient Advocacy for Both Patients and Providers

Here are some of the benefits that both patients and providers get from patient advocacy strategies:

Advocates Empower Patients In Complex Healthcare Systems

Healthcare advocates help navigate the needs of patients in complex healthcare systems, ensuring they get the best care. They support patients by responding to their needs, ensuring optimized healthcare delivery, and improving safety.

Through advocates, patients receive quality care which improves engagement with healthcare facilities. According to a 2019 report on healthcare advocacy , the programs help improve quality outcomes, enhance the patient experience, and create cost-saving efficiencies.

Addresses Communication Challenges

Some patients don't get the best medical care due to various communication challenges. Advocates help explain health information to patients to ensure they're on the same page with their healthcare providers. They minimize any communication gap that may arrive between patients and healthcare professionals, improving overall health outcomes.

Help In Understanding The Healthcare Policy

Medical professionals and facilities act according to set standards and policies. These policies ensure patients receive safe, equitable, and quality care. The policies also focus on safety regulations, legal liabilities, and regulations. When patients understand the healthcare policy, they know what to expect from healthcare professionals and act in an acceptable manner.

How Patient Advocates Help in Navigating the Healthcare System

Healthcare systems are becoming more complex, and even the most informed patients can have a difficult time keeping track of treatment, getting the right medication, and ensuring no one breaks their rights. Patient advocates help relieve patients of this burden and ensure they navigate the healthcare system with ease.

With the help of health advocates, patients and their families will have an easy time getting the assistance they need. Some ways patient advocates help with navigating the healthcare system include:

Helping patients get access to healthcare needs
Educating patients about their rights
Ensuring patients make informed decisions regarding their health and that of their loved ones
Explaining different phenomena, including insurance, medical care, and administrative and legal tasks

Benefits of Patient Advocacy for Both Patients and Providers

Here are some of the benefits that both patients and providers get from patient advocacy strategies:

Advocates Empower Patients In Complex Healthcare Systems

Through advocates, patients receive quality care which improves engagement with healthcare facilities. According to a 2019 report on healthcare advocacy, the programs help improve quality outcomes, enhance the patient experience, and create cost-saving efficiencies.

Addresses Communication Challenges

Help In Understanding The Healthcare Policy

Examples of Successful Patient Advocacy Initiatives

First Example: Anxious Patient

A patient who has never been to a hospital gets her first oncologist appointment after a cancer diagnosis. As a result, they are anxious about their health and upcoming treatment.

A patient advocate helps such a patient by responding positively to all their queries. Inform the patient about her options, help them keep their records, and refer reliable resources that can help the patient learn about their diagnosis.

Second Example: Emergency Room Patient

A patient suffers a severe accident and ends up in an emergency room at a local health facility. Advocates can help this patient by listening to their concerns and ensuring they get appropriate pain management. They will relay relevant information to the doctor about the patient and support the patient's requests concerning medical care.

Summary Of Patient Advocacy Services

Patient advocacy strategies not only help patients get safe and quality medical care, but it also helps improve the overall health experience. Advocacy programs help patients understand how healthcare professionals and facilities work. This improves communication and enhances the relationship between patients and healthcare professionals. When patients and healthcare professionals understand each other and collaborate, they help bring out the best healthcare outcome.

If you want to learn more about patient advocacy programs, Thoughtful Care is here to help. Contact us today for more information.

Benefits of Alzheimer's Support Groups

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's can be stressful. More than anything, you want them to live an active and comfortable life. However, there may be many uncertainties and unanswered questions about the future of your loved one. You may face challenges that can leave you overwhelmed, burned out, isolated and exhausted. But you don't have to face it alone.

You can join an Alzheimer's support group and walk the journey with other like-minded individuals. Many support groups offer exceptional experiences that will help you feel relieved and motivate you to care for your loved one. The benefits of Alzheimer's support groups may be different for every caregiver, but many people agree that joining one can help you care for your loved one better.

In this post, Thoughtful Care will explain what an Alzheimer's support group is and can do for both caregivers and family members.

What Is an Alzheimer's Support Group?

Alzheimer's support group is a gathering of different like-minded people taking care of loved ones living with Alzheimer's. These individuals can be those living with the disease or caregivers taking care of their loved ones. The group comprises people with various needs, challenges, and expectations that come together to find better ways to manage their conditions. And as you'll see below, there are many benefits of Alzheimer's support groups for caregivers.

Research on Alzheimer's Support Groups

According to the National Library of Medicine , a growing number of Alzheimer's caregivers are joining support groups for various reasons. People rely on formal support groups for assistance with their caregiving responsibilities. The report shows that over 40% of caregivers in the United States, approximately 16 million people, join Alzheimer's support groups for emotional support. The number will likely grow with time as more people seek support. The American Journal of Psychiatry shows that individuals who join support groups can perform their caregiving activities more efficiently in the home than those who have not received any support.

Benefits of Alzheimer's Support Groups

So why join an Alzheimer's support group? Here are the benefits of Alzheimer's support groups for caregivers.

Share Ideas with Other Like-Minded People

All Alzheimer's support groups consist of people who share a common goal. They come together to interact with other people experiencing similar struggles. As you interact, you will learn new things that can help you care for your loved one well. Through the group, you can learn what worked for other caregivers and how they did it. You can apply the ideas which may help you solve the challenges you've been facing.

Validate Your Feelings Without Feeling Guilty

Sometimes, taking care of a loved one can make you feel like you are not doing enough to give them the best life they deserve. While your feelings are valid, you don't have to think that you are not doing enough. When you join a support group, you will interact with others who may have more challenges than you. Talking to others will make you know that what you feel is normal, and you don't have to feel guilty about the support you give to your loved one.

Improve Your Coping Skills

It's normal to feel overwhelmed when taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's. But it would help if you didn't give up even when you feel like you can no longer handle it. You are doing an incredible job. All you need is more support from like-minded individuals. Joining a support group can help you improve your skills and improvise better ways to care for your loved one. You can learn practical tips to help your loved one live a fulfilling life no matter their condition.

Vent Your Frustrations Away

Caregiving can make you emotional . Sometimes, your family members may find it challenging to handle vital issues that can help your loved one live a fulfilling life. This can leave you frustrated and emotionally drained. The beauty of joining an Alzheimer's support group is that you can vent your frustrations without being judged. The group consists of people who understand each other's conditions, and you will be free to speak out about your issues without feeling judged by others. This can help you feel better as you vent your anger and frustration.

Join a Support Group for Alzheimer's Caregivers

There are many other benefits to joining an Alzheimer's support group. Because different caregivers face different challenges, joining a support group can be relieving and worth your time. Whether taking care of a parent, child, spouse, sibling, or any family member living with Alzheimer's, you'd want to give them the best care possible. A support group can help you achieve your goals.

Do you need further care for your loved one? Contact Thoughtful Care today to learn more about our Alzheimer's and dementia care services.

How to Care for a Parent With Dementia

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 05:30:00 GMT

If you have a parent who has been diagnosed with dementia, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this – many people are going through the same things and are likely feeling the same way.

Below, Thoughtful Care will highlight a few helpful tips to remember that will ease your mind and help caretakers grasp a better understanding of what’s ahead in you and your loved one’s journey.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a neurological disorder that can impair a person’s memory, thinking, language, and ability to perform basic activities. It is progressive, and the symptoms may eventually lead to dependence on another individual for daily activities.

While it can be difficult to cope with your parent’s diagnosis, there are steps you can take to make it easier.

Tips to Help You Care for Your Parent With Dementia

Take Time to Learn About Dementia

To best understand how to care for someone with dementia, it is important to know what it is and how it can affect them. Researching different types of dementia, their symptoms, and the various treatments available can help you better understand what your parent is going through.

Be Patient

Caring for someone with dementia can sometimes be frustrating, so it is important to remain calm and patient. Understand that your parent may not always remember things or have difficulty expressing themselves due to their condition. Staying calm will not only benefit you, but your parent’s state of mind as well.

Always Show Your Support

Letting your parents know that you are there for them and that you will always be supportive of them can go a long way in helping to make the situation easier . Offer comfort when needed and show them love, as this can help them feel more secure.

Stick to Routines

A regular routine can help make life easier for your parent with dementia. Try to stick to the same daily activities and tasks, as this can give them a structured schedule and a sense of consistency with purpose.

Create a Safe and Warm Environment

As someone with dementia may not always be able to assess risks or remember certain safety tips, it is important to ensure that their home is as safe as possible. Make sure that any dangerous items or objects are out of reach and that there are no other potential risks. On top of safety, creating a comfortable, calming, and familiar environment can help your parent feel even more relaxed and secure. Consider adding personal touches such as photos and other items that bring back fond memories.

Encourage Activity

Encouraging your parent to engage in activities can help them stay more active and stimulated. Consider taking walks together, playing games, or doing puzzles – anything to keep them engaged and their minds active can be highly beneficial.

Set Realistic Goals

When caring for someone with dementia, it is important to have realistic expectations. Setting achievable goals and tasks can help reduce stress for you and your parents. When setting goals, assess your parent’s capabilities and adjust accordingly. Meeting goals will feel gratifying for all parties.

Reach Out for Support

Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging, so don’t be afraid to ask for help from family or professionals when needed. This will ensure that you can keep up your strength and well-being as you care for your parent.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally draining, so it is important to take time for yourself. Get enough rest and make time for activities that bring you joy – this will help keep your mental and physical health in check. Most importantly, don’t forget to show yourself the same love and care you give your parent.

You Don’t Have To Do It Alone

Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you have more questions about dementia care services, reach out to Thoughtful Care today! You don’t have to do it alone!

Tips for Long-Distance Caregiving

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Trying to take care of a parent or close relative from far away can be one of the biggest challenges many people face . However, with modern technology and services that offer personalized care for seniors or individuals who need extra assistance, taking care of someone you love from hundreds or thousands of miles away doesn’t have to be as daunting as it once was.

Long-distance caregiving can be a complicated process, and it can seem very challenging to find the right people to care for the person you love when you are not there to do it yourself. However, with these following tips, you will find that there is a lot you can do even if you are not as close to the person as you wish you could be.

Long-Distance Caregiving Tips

Understand What The Person Needs

One vital step to caring for someone who is a long-distance away is to understand as much as you can about the person’s needs. This step is especially important if the person is under some sort of memory care or may have dementia or Alzheimer’s. Understanding the person’s daily routines, habits, likes, dislikes, medications, and medical information can help you communicate clearly to the team of caregivers exactly what the person needs in order to maintain a healthy and independent lifestyle for as long as possible.

Also, be sure that at least one person in the family has written and documented permission to receive medical information about the person you are trying to care for from afar.

Plan Regular Visits

Plan to visit your family member or friend that you are caring for on a regular basis. During these trips, you can spend time with your family member or friend and also help them with things that are outside of the traditional routine caregiver’s duties. Whether they need help doing routine maintenance around the house (i.e., deep cleaning, changing light bulbs, going through old clothes, etc.) or you choose to attend certain doctor’s appointments or other important events with them, visiting will allow you both to stay in contact on a regular basis. A regularly scheduled visit can also lift both of your spirits as you may be far away from each other most of the time. That bonding gives you time to look forward to spending together.

Keep In Contact Regularly

Whether you teleconference into doctor’s appointments, plan to Zoom chat on a regular basis, text message throughout the day, or talk on the phone a certain day each week, keeping in touch with your loved one or friend is vital to understanding how they are doing and what their well-being is like at any specific time. Talking to other people who spend a lot of time with your friend or loved one can also help paint an image in your head of how the other person is doing and what you might need to be aware of in the future.

Maintain Organization of Their Paperwork/Files

If you are caring for someone who is in memory care or has dementia or Alzheimer’s, then this step might be even more important. Consider either keeping the person’s paperwork and files or at least copies of them on hand at all times. These files would include things like personal, health, financial, and legal records that you might need as you provide long-distance caregiving to the person. The initiation steps of collecting all of these pieces of paperwork can be quite time-consuming, but once you have the information together, the information and paperwork will make other caregiving tasks in the future easier. Also, remember that the more information you have, the easier it will become to handle a crisis, should one arise.

Assure That Your Loved One or Friend Has Competent Caregivers

Ensuring that the people you are hiring or partnering with to take care of your relative or friend are competent in their work is critical to ensuring they get the best possible care. You want caregivers who are licensed for their work and have extensive knowledge of how to take care of people with the conditions that your friend or relative has. You also want someone who can provide reference checks to ensure that they are trustworthy, reliable, and competent to do what they do.

Reach Out to Others For Assistance

If you need help from other people, then there is nothing wrong with reaching out to family and friends that you trust and care about to ask for help. Sometimes all you have to do is simply ask someone else to help lighten your load. Friends, family, and those around you will likely be happy to help and will be honored that you chose them when you needed someone the most.

Finally, Make Time For You

Making time for yourself might sound cliché and even ridiculous, but it’s actually vital to avoiding caregiver burnout , even from a long distance away. In addition to letting others help, tacking time for yourself is also important in your daily life. Whether you go do something you enjoy or spend time with your own family, making sure that you are taking care of yourself will, in turn, help you take better care of your family member or friend who needs you to help care for them.

Thoughtful Care is Here for You

In the end, having the proper caregivers helping care for your family member or loved one can help put your mind at ease. Thoughtful Care is here to help ensure that you are hiring only the most conscientious and caring caregivers for your family member or friend who is in need of additional care. Please contact us for further assistance in finding someone who is able to help take care of your family member or loved one. We are here to help, and we will work with you, even over long-distance caregiving, to ensure that the special people in your life get the care they need and live life with the dignity that they deserve.

Elderly Recovery After Surgery: Surgery Recovery Tips for Seniors

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:00:00 GMT

While aging is a natural process that comes with both advantages and disadvantages, it’s important to be aware how this can effect our bodies. With 60% of Americans aged 65 or older having at least two chronic health conditions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , chances are you’ve probably had your share of surgeries. Whether it’s a scheduled procedure or emergency surgery, elderly recovery after surgery can be more difficult than that of younger people.

As we age, we lose muscle mass and bone density, our immune system weakens, and we’re more likely to have chronic health conditions that can complicate surgery and the recovery process.

Here are a few tips for elderly people looking to recover from surgery:

Get Plenty of Rest

This may seem like a no-brainer, but getting plenty of rest after the surgery is important. “Sleep is when our bodies heal,” says Michael A. Ferraro, MD, a geriatrician, and palliative care physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. “When we’re asleep, our cells repair themselves.”

Eat a Healthy Diet

While not all surgeries have dietary restrictions post-operation, eating a healthy diet is always important to help your body heal. Having meals rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables will give you the nutrients you need to recover.

In addition, get hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages should be avoided, as they can interfere with the healing process.

Exercise and Move Around

You might not feel like it, but it’s important to get moving after surgery. Unless noted by your care provider as a bad idea, walking is a great way to move your body without putting too much strain on it. Start with short walks around the house or block, and gradually increase the distance as you feel up to it.

If you had surgery on your legs or feet, physical therapy could help you regain strength and mobility. PT exercises will also help reduce swelling and improve your range of motion.

Take Your Medications as Prescribed

After surgery, you’ll likely be prescribed pain medication, antibiotics, and/or other medications. It’s important to take these as prescribed and not to skip any doses.

If you have questions about your medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you understand the drug and how to take it properly.

Follow Up With Your Surgeon

Most people will have a follow-up appointment with their surgeon within a few weeks of surgery. This is an excellent time to ask any questions about your recovery and get guidance on when you can return to your normal activities.

Keep all your follow-up appointments, as they are essential to your recovery process.

Be Patient

Recovery from surgery can take time, so patience is important. “It’s not uncommon for people to feel pretty good a week or two after surgery and then have a setback,” says Dr. Ferraro. The healing process can be unpredictable, so listening to your body and taking things as they come is essential.

If you have any concerns about your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon or primary care doctor. They can help you manage any pain or other symptoms you may be experiencing.

Ask for Help When You Need It

Elderly recovery after surgery can be challenging, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Family and friends can pitch in by helping with meals, transportation, and household tasks.

Professional caregiving services can also help with things like bathing, dressing, and grooming. These services can be beneficial if you live alone or don’t have a lot of support from family and friends.

How Can Thoughtful Care Help You?

While surgery recovery can be challenging, the good news is that you don’t have to go through it alone. The elderly care experts at Thoughtful Care can provide the support and assistance you need to recover in Kansas City.

Our elderly care services are tailored to meet your unique needs and can be customized to fit your schedule. To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today.

At What Point Do Dementia Patients Need 24-Hour Care?

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Here’s a shocking fact: the most prevalent kind of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, affects almost 5.8 million Americans . Most people with the condition can accomplish everyday tasks independently in the early stages. However, they can face forgetfulness, mood swings, coordination issues, and trouble picking up new skills. When the condition worsens and enters the intermediate and advanced stages, dementia patients often lose the ability to speak and frequently need assistance with everyday chores.

If you’re caring for a dementia patient, you’re probably wondering, “at what point do individuals with dementia need 24-hour care?” The truth is that it can be pretty challenging when you have to decide if a dementia patient should move into a memory care facility. Putting a loved one in a 24-hour care facility might make you feel worried or guilty. You may even feel as though you are letting the patient down or choosing the easy way out.

While each person with dementia is different, most will eventually need around-the-clock care at a dementia care facility to preserve their health and security.Still, it can be challenging for some to know when dementia patients need 24-hour care. To help ease the uncertainty, we have listed some signs to help you know the point at which a dementia patient needs 24-hour care.

Signs That a Dementia Patient Needs 24-Hour Care

Dementia progresses slowly for years at a time. Therefore, knowing whether to switch to full-time care can be challenging, especially for family members. While there is never a “perfect time,” there are signs that a dementia patient may require further help. Some include:

Caregiver Stress

Mental, bodily, and emotional weariness are the defining characteristics of caregiver stress. This condition typically occurs in caregivers who constantly put others before themselves. Caring for a loved one with dementia is often very trying and distressing. Additionally, mild medical disorders can get worse under stress, making the mental and physical elements of caregiving even more challenging.

Caregivers must, therefore, look after themselves as well. Moving into a facility that offers round-the-clock care is advantageous for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.

Safety Concerns

Patients with dementia have impaired judgment and memory. They are also often vulnerable to household mishaps.

Family members and caregivers should watch for a general decrease in their loved one’s health. Unexpected weight loss, a change in posture, or bruising are indications that a dementia patient is no longer secure at home. Additionally, dementia patients may require 24-hour care if they frequently fall, spend most of the day sitting down or are prone to wander around.

Unhealthy Living Conditions

It can be challenging to balance running a household and caring for a spouse or family member. If you observe outstanding bills, a backlog of dishes, food that has gone bad in the refrigerator, a general lack of hygiene, or any other indications of dangerous living circumstances, you might consider moving them into a more regulated setting with round-the-clock monitoring.

Social Isolation and Withdrawal

People with dementia become more and more disoriented, which frequently causes them to retreat from social activities they formerly enjoyed. This might result in social isolation, which can make dementia symptoms worse. Memory care facilities have carefully selected social activities that promote conversation and intellectual stimulation for dementia patients.

Difficulty Managing Medication

The National Institute on Aging estimates that 85% of older persons take medicine for at least one chronic health condition. As dementia advances, managing prescriptions may become increasingly challenging. However, most 24-hour care facilities will deliver a patient’s medicine while examining certain symptoms and difficulties that might indicate an underlying health issue.

Getting Thoughtful Care

At Thoughtful Care, we know the time and effort it may take to give your loved one with dementia the finest care available. We take great pride in assisting many families in Kansas City to continue caring for their loved ones and give them peace of mind knowing their particular requirements are met. To learn more about dementia patients, feel free to contact Thoughtful Care .

Frequently Asked Senior Care Questions Regarding Private Care Services

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 19:40:00 GMT

If you have ever had any senior care questions, it is likely that others have also had similar questions. This FAQ will explore some frequently asked senior care questions regarding private care services. The information here will help to make an informed decision about the best course of care for your loved one.

Senior Care FAQs

What Are Private/Home Care Services?

Private care generally refers to care provided in the home by a professional caregiver, unlike care provided in a nursing facility or other institution. Typically the caregivers go to the recipient’s home and provide numerous services such as light housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, grocery shopping, transportation, personal care, and medication reminders.

Who Needs Private/Home Care Services?

Private care services are generally for people who need some level of assistance with activities of daily living but do not require constant supervision in a nursing facility. These can be seniors with health problems and disabilities who want to remain in their own homes rather than enter a long-term care facility. For such people, private care services are the best option.

Why Consider Private/Home Care Services?

There are several reasons to consider private/home care services for your loved one. The main reason is that it allows them to stay in their own home and maintain some degree of independence. Additionally, it can be more affordable than other care options, and it allows the recipient to receive one-on-one attention. Other reasons to consider private care for seniors include;

How Do I Know if My Loved One Needs Private/Home Care Services?

Several essential indicators suggest your loved one needs private/home care services. Some of these include:

What Are the Benefits of Private Care?

There are many benefits to home care , including:

What Happens in an Emergency?

Private caregivers have emergency training that requires them to contact the appropriate authorities and family members if an emergency arises. They will also follow any specific instructions provided by the family in advance. With such training and the ability to handle emergencies calmly, you can rest assured that your loved ones are in safe hands.

How Do I Choose a Private Caregiver?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a private caregiver, including:

There are numerous ways to find a private/home care provider. You can ask your doctor for a referral, contact a home care agency, or search through online directories. Once you have a few potential providers in mind, be sure to interview them to find the best match for your loved one’s needs. Find senior care in Overland Park, KS .

How Much Do Private/Home Care Services Cost?

The cost of private/home care services will vary depending on the type and frequency of care needed and the location. Generally, home care is more affordable than nursing home care, but it is still important to speak with potential providers about pricing and payment options. Your private care provider could also work with you to create a care plan that fits your budget.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Private/Home Care?

Although health care services always have associated risks, most consider private/home care a relatively safe alternative. However, you must still carefully screen potential caregivers and visit your loved ones regularly to ascertain they receive the best care. This move will help you avoid risks and gather feedback from your loved ones.

Get Quality Private Care Services

Thoughtful Healthcare is a leading provider of private care services. We offer a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our caregivers are carefully screened and receive ongoing training to ensure they provide the best possible care. We are ready to answer any senior care questions you might have. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a free consultation.

When Is the Perfect Time to Discuss Senior Home Care?

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 20:26:00 GMT

It’s never too early to start thinking about home nursing care. The right time to discuss senior home care is as soon as you can. You don’t want to wait until your loved one needs it because it’s too late. You should also plan for what happens when your loved one needs help with everyday tasks like bathing and dressing or if they need more intensive care such as medication management. We have a few practical ways that can help the conversation.

Consider the Signs of Your Loved One

Before starting the conversation, check the following:

Medical Condition

You can start the conversation about elderly home care if your loved one has a medical condition that limits movement or ability to live independently. Some ailments are caused by a stroke or other disability that prevents them from performing activities of daily living (ADLs) or going about their day without assistance.

Chronic Condition

Another sign is when your loved one has a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease that requires constant monitoring by medical professionals throughout the day. This process helps them stay alive and remain healthy enough to continue living independently without assistance from others around them.

Even if they have a history of dementia in their family or already have it, you should consider assisted living services.

Illness or Injury

If your elder has an accident and fractured a bone or suffers from a severe illness such as pneumonia, it might be time to discuss senior home care with them. These accidents can affect their ability to live independently and require around-the-clock monitoring and supervision.

They may need additional assistance if they have trouble getting around because of balance or mobility problems due to arthritis . These ailments may cause pain or discomfort when moving around in their home.

Changing Financial Needs

It’s essential to take note of your loved one’s changing financial needs. As people age, it becomes hard to manage their finances due to medical issues or cognitive decline (dementia). If your loved one is having trouble handling money, you must speak up about what kind of assistance you can give them. It could be paying bills on time or taking over the bank account entirely to prevent falling behind on bills.

A Decline in Driving Abilities

Some older people may struggle with driving simply because they have trouble remembering how to get from place to place. Other times, it’s a failure to focus on the road and respond quickly enough to avoid accidents. This can be problematic for older adults who live alone or in areas where traffic is heavy and dangerous.

You can recommend alternative transportation options such as taxis or rideshare services. Also, allowing an assisted living facility to care for them is an ideal choice. It helps reduce stress levels for you and your loved one knowing they have maximum safety.

Senior Home Care Conclusion

Senior home care is something that many people have to consider at some point, but it can be scary and overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily tasks of caring for the elderly, and that’s why we want to help you make the transition as smooth as possible.

If you’re unsure where to start, contact Thoughtful Care via phone at (913) 312-9561 or the contact page to discuss how we can help.

5 Ways to Help Your Loved One With Parkinson’s Disease in Kansas City

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 21:34:00 GMT

People who have Parkinson’s disease may find everyday life challenging. Taking proper care of loved ones diagnosed with Parkinson’s syndrome could make their life more pleasant, easier, and less stressful. Family and friends suffering from the illness tend to have impaired balance, rigid muscles, slowed movement, and tremors resulting in complications in managing day-to-day activities and participating in social life.

A Parkinson’s patient requires extra support and assistance to uphold the quality of life. Whether at a Parkinson's care facility or with an in-home caregiver. What can a caregiver do to offer the proper assistance? The following are better methods to help a loved one with Parkinson’s disease in Kansas City.

Learn Everything About Parkinson’s Disease

Understanding everything about the illness is crucial to a Parkinson’s patient caregiver. Loved ones suffering from the disorder show some familiar symptoms. Educating yourself on the disease helps you identify the sources of the symptoms, proper treatment, and how the ailment advances. You can learn more about the disease through Parkinson’s Foundation or read relevant books for more information.

Parkinson’s condition is complex and requires accurate data since it manifests differently in every patient. Ensure you have all the information concerning the disease to know what to expect and how to handle any arising situation.

Run Errands for Your Loved Ones

Loved ones suffering from Parkinson’s disease in Kansas City have movement disorder which causes difficulties in fulfilling day-to-day responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Your sick friends and family may find it uncomfortable to seek help running errands. Please volunteer to help run errands, cook, clean, and do other daily tasks that seem challenging to do on their own.

Your loved ones will be relieved to have the assistance despite being proud to ask for it. Parkinson’s patients may have critical small favors that they need to perform but feel embarrassed to ask for help.

Help Your Loved One Feel Normalcy

Avoid having a dialogue reminding your loved one that they have Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s patients can quickly lose their sense of self by focusing mainly on the illness and its symptoms. Start a conversation about something unrelated to the disease, and talk about a favorite book or movie.

The normalcy of your loved one’s life may be interfered with Parkinson’s symptoms by making communication hard. To improve communication, restrain from finishing your loved one’s statements. Have simple and general conversations by using names as a replacement for pronouns for clarification.

Go Outside With Loved Ones

Parkinson’s patients may be lonely and isolated from other people. Take your loved one out for a movie or dinner to cheer them up. Choose a theater or restaurant with an elevator or ramp and prepare for any adjustments to your plans if your loved one is not well enough for outdoor activities.

Help your loved one exercise to stay active and improve balance, strength, and memory. Research shows that exercise assists the brain in efficiently using the movement chemical called dopamine. Exercise programs are helpful for Parkinson’s patients in relaxation and boosting coordination.

Attend Medical Appointments With Your Loved Ones

Accompany your loved ones to doctor’s appointments to take notes, ask relevant questions, and share your views on various issues the patient may conceal, such as mood disorders or sleeping troubles. Tagging along to medical appointments will assist in keeping track of therapy or doctor’s appointment dates. Preserve notes on any side effects by utilizing the calendar for accurate information.

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease in Kansas City can be tough, and it necessitates patience and observation. The above helpful tips will help you match your speed to theirs. You can effectively help loved ones to lead an improved quality of life.

Thoughtful Healthcare is certified and offers in-home caregiver support. We are dedicated to offering honest and complete support for your loved ones. Call us today for more information.

Helpful Dementia Room Signs and Décor for Dementia Patients

Fri, 27 May 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Everyday life can be challenging for a loved one with dementia . But with simple adaptations at home like dementia room signs, life could be easier, less stressful, and more pleasant.

Dementia slowly robs one of the cognitive abilities, which results in difficulties handling daily activities, participating in social life, pursuing meaningful activities, and most of all increased anxiety. Making everyday tasks around the house easier helps them stay independent and reduces stress, anxiety, and frustration. So, how can you achieve that?

Below are a few simple changes you can make at home to make it safe and friendly for a loved one living with dementia.

Add Natural Lighting

Good and ample lighting is a crucial element in a dementia patient’s space. Whenever possible, ensure to increase natural light inside the house by opening curtains, trimming large hedges outside that block the sunlight or windows, and removing any unnecessary blinds and nets.

When using artificial lighting, make sure to block any shadows caused by poor lighting. This is because shadows can easily scare the person with dementia and cause them to “see” something that is not there. Also, close drapes during the night to avoid reflections on the window and to indicate it is nighttime.

Additionally, cover or remove all mirrors in the room, as people with dementia can be frightened or anxious when they see their reflection in a mirror. This is because as dementia advances, memory deteriorates, and the person may no longer recognize themselves when they see their reflection in it.

Use Contrasting Colors, but Minimize the Patterns

Older adults struggling with dementia navigate well in areas decorated with surfaces featuring contrasting colors. Choose furniture and fixtures with distinct colors, hang towels in the bathroom that vary in color from the bathroom wall color, and use bed linens and drapes that contrast in color with the walls and floors. They easily see useful objects with contrasting colors too, for example, a red plate on a white placement.

However, avoid using too many patterns in décor because they can have the opposite effect, which can create visual confusion and make things harder to see.

Dementia Room Signs and Salient Cues

Putting dementia room signs can be life-changing for someone with dementia. Keep your mind open and consider the following points:

Another way to make movement easier for a person with dementia is to enhance the room with salient cues . Salient cues grab a person’s attention and make them stand out from the surroundings. For example, a large, brightly illuminated statue or beautiful paintwork that makes the surroundings more familiar and pleasing.

Choose Safer Flooring

Avoid mats or rugs on the floor. A person with dementia may become confused and think the mat or rug is an object they need to step over, which could lead to falls or trips. Try to avoid shiny flooring, as this may be perceived as wet and your loved one may struggle to walk over it. Floor colors should also not mimic real objects, for example, blue and green, which may be mistaken for water and grass, respectively.

In addition, invest in glass or glazed-front cabinetry that allows a person to quickly recognize what is inside.

These are just a few helpful dementia room signs and décor tips you can use to enhance the space for your loved one. Each of them can contribute to their independence, improved safety, and improved quality of life.

Caring for a person with dementia is not easy and may require a lot of your attention, which can be a bit challenging. But you don’t have to worry because, at Thoughtful Care, we can help educate you about dementia and give you insights on how to cope with the challenges. Contact us today for more tips, questions, or services.

Finding the Right In-Home Caregiver for Seniors

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 22:46:00 GMT

There are a lot of things to consider when you’re looking for an in-home caregiver for your senior loved one. You want to find someone who is trustworthy, reliable, and compassionate. But how do you go about finding the right person?

Here are some tips on how to find the right in-home caregiver for your loved one:

Who Should You Ask About Home Caregivers?

The first step to finding the right caregiver for your loved one is identifying who can give you the best information. Here are some people you can ask:

Once you’ve gathered some names, the next step is to interview the caregivers. This is an important process because it will help you get a feel for each person and whether they would be a good fit for your loved one. During the interviews, be sure to ask about:

What Kind of Experience Should Home Care Workers Have?

When you’re looking for in-home care for your loved one, it’s important to find caregivers who have the right experience. You’ll want to find caregivers who have worked with seniors before and who understand the unique needs of elderly patients. In-home care workers should also be comfortable working with patients who have dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s also important to find caregivers who are patient and compassionate. Caring for a senior can be challenging, and you’ll want to find caregivers who are up for the task. Look for caregivers who have a positive attitude and who are willing to go the extra mile to ensure their patients are comfortable and safe.

Finally, you’ll want to find caregivers who are reliable and trustworthy. This is especially important if you’re not able to be there to supervise the care yourself. Make sure to check references and do your research before hiring anyone to work in your home.

Are Home Caregivers insured?

Yes, all home caregivers are insured. You should check with the agency to see what type of insurance they have. Most agencies will have liability insurance, but you want to make sure that they also have workers’ compensation insurance in case your loved one is injured while in their care.

What are the qualifications of a Home Caregiver?

Most home caregivers are required to have at least a high school diploma, although some agencies may require additional training or certification. The best way to find out about a caregiver’s qualifications is to ask the agency for their resume and references. You can also ask the agency if they perform background checks on their employees.

The process of finding the right in-home caregiver for your loved one can be daunting, but it’s important to take your time and do your research. By following these steps, you can be sure that you find a qualified and compassionate caregiver who will provide excellent care for your loved one.

Caregiver Duties & Responsibilities You May Overlook

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:39:00 GMT

As a caregiver, you wear many hats–and some of them may be invisible to you. Some of your duties and responsibilities will probably become second nature as time goes on, but there are some that may not occur to you until they’re needed.

Taking a proactive stance can help you stay a step ahead of your family member’s health care needs and ensure that everything runs smoothly at home. Here are some caregiver duties and responsibilities you may overlook.

What Are Your Daily Roles?

You Are Responsible For Providing Basic Housekeeping

If your elderly loved one requires assistance with daily activities such as cleaning up after themselves or preparing meals, seek help from their doctor or healthcare provider regarding hiring outside help or getting them enrolled in adult daycare services.

You Need To Provide Regular Personal Hygiene

If you’re taking care of an elderly adult who has problems with personal hygiene like bathing and dressing themselves, or they need help eating and preparing meals due to physical limitations, then it’s your duty to report them to their primary physician or healthcare provider so they can get proper medical attention right away . Be sure to check their doctor’s credentials and experience to make sure they’re qualified.

You Are Responsible for Safety at Home

As a caregiver, it’s your duty to keep your loved one safe in the home by making modifications like handrails and slip-resistant flooring where needed and reporting all safety hazards like broken appliances or loose electrical outlets immediately . Be sure that you provide proper lighting in dark places so your loved one can move around more safely as well.

What Important Roles Do You Play As A Caregiver?

You are your loved one’s advocate

You speak for them when they’re not able to speak for themselves. This is huge! When you’re advocating, you keep yourself and others informed about your family member’s specific needs. For example, if they need medical equipment at home but insurance won’t cover it, remind doctors that they need it before leaving the office — or even go to their appointments with them. Your loved one counts on you to make sure nothing gets overlooked!

Being an advocate also means coordinating your family member’s care with other professionals who interact with him or her (e.g., social workers, therapists). That way, there isn’t any miscommunication about services or missed calls. If you’re having trouble coordinating everything, consider bringing in a professional like a geriatric care manager or an aging services coordinator.

You’re the leader

It may seem that your family member is leading because they’re the one who’s sick/disabled, but you’re still really the captain of this team. If you don’t take charge of their care and make sure things get done, no one will. This can lead to things falling through the cracks and important tasks (such as doctor visits) getting overlooked.

Being a caregiver doesn’t mean micromanaging either. Being proactive and coming up with a schedule of tasks gives everyone involved more freedom while ensuring that everything gets done that needs to be done on time! Take it from someone who knows: try to be the “calm in the middle of the storm” and keep things on track while your family member receives treatment or care. Trust us: it takes a lot less stress and worry out of the whole situation!

Do you know what it takes to be a caregiver?

If you cannot personally provide these kinds of services, don’t feel bad about it, but rather call on professional home care providers who can handle all kinds of tasks and responsibilities associated with caring for your sick loved one.

We at Thoughtful Care offer our services to help make sure all their needs are met and we’re happy to do it. Call us today!

Gift Ideas for People with Alzheimers or Dementia

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 18:40:00 GMT

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is a brain disorder that slowly but progressively destroys memory and thinking skills. Alzheimer’s specifically affects the part of the brain involved with memory and learning. Dementia, which is an illness that causes a loss of intellectual abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life activities, is often used as a general term for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Are There Books That Can Be Given As Gifts?

There are a lot of good books out on the market that can help you or your family understand a bit more about what is happening. It can be tough as it is to experience the symptoms but to also feel like you’re the only one will be alienating. If you want to help a loved one understand and relate to others fighting out there in the world then you may want to look into some of the top books on Alzheimer’s and dementia.

The amount of information out in the world can be overwhelming but some authors have been able to capture what it means to be going through these stages in life. If you need some recommendations of the top books for gift use the following as reference.

Keep Sharp debunks common myths about aging and cognitive decline, explores whether there’s a “best” diet or exercise regimen for the brain, and explains whether it’s healthier to play video games that test memory and processing speed, or to engage in more social interaction. Discover what we can learn from “super-brained” people who are in their eighties and nineties with no signs of slowing down—and whether there are truly any benefits to drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

For 40 years, The 36-Hour Day has been the leading work in the field for caregivers of those with dementia. Written by experts with decades of experience caring for individuals with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, and other dementias, the book is widely known for its authoritativeness and compassionate approach to care.

What Is Considered A Safe and Thoughtful Gift?

If you have a friend or family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it can be difficult to find the right gift for them at Christmas time. What do you buy someone who can’t focus long enough to enjoy even their most favorite things? How do you show your support when they’ve forgotten their own family? The best gift you can give someone who has dementia is your time. One-on-one visits, telephone calls, outings to favorite places, and volunteering are all great ways to show support for people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

If you would like to do a little more than just offer your time take a look at some of the creative ideas we have below.

You may think these are simple but small things go a long way to a loved one who may feel alone or worried about what is coming next. Be sure to always be patient and understanding when spending time with them.

Call A Professional If You Have Any Questions Regarding Dementia

If you have any concerns of a long term effects of Dementia for your loved one the experts at Thoughtful Care in Kansas City can help. We have the dedicated resources to assist you and your loved one who may just need a little more assistance moving into a different stage in their life. Contact us today for more information.

5 of the Best Books on Understanding Dementia

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 22:54:00 GMT

How can you better understand a disease that is devastating for the patient and family, but also affects you?

People diagnosed with dementia are often abandoned by their families. In order to learn more about this degenerative disease, these 5 books will offer a varied approach.

Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s: A Groundbreaking Approach for Everyone Dealing with the Disease , by Joanne Koenig Coste

Joanne Koenig Coste, now a renowned pioneer in implementing positive methods of caring for Alzheimer’s patients, began to develop her groundbreaking approach when her middle-aged husband was diagnosed with progressive dementia shortly after the birth of her fourth child. As she struggled to care for him and their family, she recognized that it was possible to avoid some of the tremendous emotional burdens Alzheimer’s patients and their care providers endure during the course of the disease. In this book Koenig Coste explains the five tenets of her “habilitation” approach, an accessible and comprehensive plan proven to have worked with thousands of patients and care providers.

Refuting long-accepted ideas, she calls for care “partners” to join patients in their current sense of place or time; to encourage patients to use their remaining skills to support their sense of independence and dignity; and, most of all, to continue communicating with patients by focusing on their emotional “language.” Learning to Speak Alzheimer’s also offers hundreds of practical tips to ease life for everyone involved with Alzheimer’s, including how to

Activities to do with Your Parent who has Alzheimer’s Dementia , by Judith A. Levy EdM OTR

Activities to Do with Your Parent Who Has Alzheimer’s Dementia provides a selection of user-friendly activities that will help maintain your parent’s self-care skills, mobility, and socialization. These tasks encourage success and feelings of self worth, and offer imaginative ways to interact with your parent. The Activity Assessment Form objectively allows you to look at each of these tasks. It can help to determine the setup and environment that works best with your parent. This written format is a tool which also encourages consistency between caregivers. In this book you will find:

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living with Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias: 101 Stories of Caregiving, Coping, and Compassion , by Amy Newmark

No one should face Alzheimer’s or dementia alone. These 101 stories will provide support, advice, and comfort for caregivers and those living with Alzheimer’s.

This collection of personal stories will support you through all the phases of your journey. You’ll read chapters on:

The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer’s Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss , 6th edition, by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins

Through five editions, The 36-Hour Day has been an essential resource for families who love and care for people with Alzheimer disease. Whether a person has Alzheimer disease or another form of dementia, he or she will face a host of problems. The 36-Hour Day will help family members and caregivers address these challenges and simultaneously cope with their own emotions and needs.

Featuring useful takeaway messages and informed by recent research into the causes of and the search for therapies to prevent or cure dementia, this edition includes new information on

• devices to make life simpler and safer for people who have dementia
• strategies for delaying behavioral and neuropsychiatric symptoms
• changes in Medicare and other health care insurance laws
• palliative care, hospice care, durable power of attorney, and guardianship
• dementia due to traumatic brain injury
• choosing a residential care facility
• support groups for caregivers, friends, and family members

The central idea underlying the book―that much can be done to improve the lives of people with dementia and of those caring for them―remains the same. The 36-Hour Day is the definitive dementia care guide.

Creating Moments of Joy Along the Alzheimer’s Journey: A Guide for Families and Caregivers , 5th edition, by Jolene Brackey

The beloved best seller has been revised and expanded for the fifth edition. Jolene Brackey has a vision: that we will soon look beyond the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease to focus more of our energies on creating moments of joy. When people have short-term memory loss, their lives are made up of moments. We are not able to create perfectly wonderful days for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s, but we can create perfectly wonderful moments, moments that put a smile on their faces and a twinkle in their eyes. Five minutes later, they will not remember what we did or said, but the feeling that we left them with will linger. The new edition of Creating Moments of Joy is filled with more practical advice sprinkled with hope, encouragement, new stories, and generous helpings of humor. In this volume, Brackey reveals that our greatest teacher is having cared for and loved someone with Alzheimer’s and that often what we have most to learn about is ourselves.

Thoughtful Home Care

If you are experiencing difficulty with loved ones going through dementia or Alzheimer’s symptoms please reach out to the experts at Thoughtful Home Care ! We have the professional help and support you need.

How to Help A Family Member With Dementia Who Refuses Care

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 21:26:00 GMT

It’s common for someone who is living with dementia to deny they are experiencing any cognitive issues. It may be frustrating for you and your family, but it’s important not to become flustered. If a loved one is continuing to deny that they have dementia, or they are refusing to go into care, it’s important to help in the right ways. How can you help a dementia patient who is refusing to go into care?

Approaching the Subject of Dementia Gently and Calmly

When you are talking to someone about your concerns, you have to be gentle with them. Memory issues do not always point towards dementia, but you have to let your loved one know you are concerned about them. It’s important to give them examples of issues to further back up your claims. For example, forgetting names or missing important appointments are common signs of dementia. Keeping a diary of events as proof will help show them why you are concerned, as well provide evidence of dementia symptoms.

When it comes to approaching the subject, you may want to break the main issue down into a smaller one. If you have noticed they are forgetting names of friends, you can gently point them towards a doctor that may be able to help with their memory issues. If they continue to deny the issue, this may delay them from receiving an official diagnosis, and getting the essential help they need.

How You Can Offer Help to Someone Who Denies Diagnosis

Anybody receiving a diagnosis of dementia can have a range of emotions arising from denial to sadness or anxiety. However they feel, it’s important for you to stay calm and composed, as this could help them stay calm as well.

When you are trying to help them process their diagnosis, you have to be supportive, but also do what you can to remain composed. If it’s someone you care about, you could become emotional, or you could become insistent on a certain level of care, which can make the issue difficult if they are still refusing care, or even denying they have a condition.

During this time, it can benefit you to find out about local support groups or therapies. This can help them to come to terms with a diagnosis. It is so important to speak to the person that you’re concerned about and encourage them to see a doctor themselves. If this doesn’t work, you may want to consider speaking to the doctor yourself, but make sure you get the person’s consent first.

Including Them in the Care Process

It can be easy to push forward and speak to the doctor about getting an official diagnosis, but when it comes to the topic of dementia care , you’ve got to give your loved one a number of options. Just because the person has dementia doesn’t mean that they are incapable of making choices themselves. Giving them a number of options of care can make them feel like they are part of the process, and have control over the decisions.

When it comes to selecting the right caregiver, give your loved one the opportunity to select how and when a caregiver can best help meet their needs.

Remember to Keep Their Dignity at Heart

The process of coming around to the idea that you may have dementia is not easy. Taking it slow and looking at things from their perspective is crucial to approaching this subject successfully. The process of introducing a caregiver is difficult, as this can communicate the message that they are needing help in every aspect of their lives that they were once able to handle themselves. However, if you take it slow, this will not just help your loved one to come around to the idea of accepting some form of help, but it can help you out as well.

Having a professional caregiver help throughout the process is beneficial because they are able to deal with dementia care professionally, which is the best possible way. It’s so easy for us, as loved ones, to get frustrated because they are refusing any form of care. However, when it comes to the point that you bring a caregiver into the process, you have to put yourself in your loved one’s shoes, while also being aware of the fact that this is a confusing time in many ways.

You may also want to consider assisted living facilities in Overland Park, Kansas.

We are committed to helping you and your loved one navigate through this time in your lives. If you have more questions regarding caring for loved ones with dementia, please contact the Thoughtful Care today!

Coping with Elder Depression

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 20:16:00 GMT

Elderly people, especially those with dementia , are particularly susceptible to depression—though, it can be difficult to tell the difference between depression in seniors and early signs of dementia. Thoughtful Care’s caregivers , serving Kansas City, Overland Park, Lees Summit, Olathe, Mission Hills and Prairie Village, are trained to recognize symptoms of elder depression.

How In-Home Caregivers Can Help with Elder Depression

Because our trained caregivers devote their services to a consistent client, they can recognize any changes in mood or behavior that might indicate depression.

Call Thoughtful Care today to find out how our professional in-home memory care providers can assist your loved one. Our trained professionals are here to help.

Keeping the Peace—Living with a Loved One with Dementia in Kansas City

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 20:43:00 GMT

Family dynamics are real. People tend to fall into roles within the family structure in order to meet the demands of a life. There are leaders, breadwinners, decision-makers, hearth-keepers, those who create order, those who keep the peace, the family clown, and dreamers. Whatever the roles may be, things get turned upside down when symptoms of dementia begin to manifest. Suddenly the decision-maker forgets the banker’s name, or the caregiver can’t recall a family member’s birthday.

Thoughtful Care in Kansas City has experienced professional caregivers who deal with these changes every day. Our care providers in Mission Hills, Leawood, Lenexa, Olathe, Shawnee, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit and North Kansas City have a few words to say when these family dynamic change.

Call us today to find out how you can get the support you need. Our memory care professionals can make a tailored plan to help your family stay strong, even when dementia brings changes.

Changing Your Mindset About Memory Care in Kansas City

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 01:07:00 GMT

After Diane lost her husband Bill*, she knew that the time had come to make decisions about her future. Luckily, she and Bill had a ranch style home, so she didn’t have to worry about climbing stairs or keeping an upstairs suite clean. But Diane had recently received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and her kids were encouraging her to begin looking into memory care nursing homes.

The more she thought about it, the more she found herself feeling uncomfortable with the idea of rooming with a stranger, or eating food from a cafeteria, or losing contact with her good friends in her Leawood neighborhood.

An acquaintance who lived a few miles away told her that Thoughtful Care provided in-home memory care to seniors in their neighborhood, and that the services were tailored to their needs. Diane was sure that she didn’t want acookie-cutter approach to aging, or an institutionalized approach to her diagnosisof dementia. After all, her Alzheimer’s hadn’t progressed very far, but sheknew she would need to secure support soon.

Diane took her friend’s recommendation and called Thoughtful Care. Their in-home care assessment was free, her sons were brought into the conversation, and the family came up with a plan that would give Diane the support that she needed, and allow her the dignity to age at home, even with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.

The professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care are availablefor part-time support or for full-time, round-the-clock care to seniors in Kansas City, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, Mission Hills, Olathe,Overland Park, Lees Summit, and North Kansas City. Call us today to find out more.

*Names and details have been changed

Myths About In-Home Alzheimer’s Care in Kansas City

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 01:02:00 GMT

We’re going to take care of some business today. In this post, we’re going to bust some myths about in-home dementia care in Kansas City, Mission Hills, Leawood, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, North Kansas City, Lenexa, Shawnee, Olathe, and Johnson County. Why? Because Thoughtful Care believes your loved one deserves the best memory care available.

MYTH: My loved one needs to be in a nursing home because we can’t keep him at home.

MYTHBUSTER: Thoughtful Care’s skilled professional caregivers provide attentive, loving in-home Alzheimer’s and dementia care in your home.Your care provider will know all about your loved one and what he needs and when he needs it. We can offer part time help, full-time daytime care, or round-the-clock memory care .

MYTH: We can’t afford in-home care.

MYTHBUSTER: Because we can tailor the amount of time andattention specifically to your loved one’s needs, we can streamline servicesand the costs of care to help with your specific requirements. Our costs are competitive withdedicated memory care-nursing homes.

MYTH: In-home care really isn’t any better than a nursing home.

MYTHBUSTER: A loved one with memory issues will sleep better in her own bed, will have less stress-related issues when she is at home than she would in a nursing home, and she will receive one-on-one care from a trained caregiver, as opposed to care in a nursing home from different people at different times. Aging at home is preferred by almost 90% of people over the age of 65, according to an AARP Public Policy study.

MYTH: Medications won’t be managed if we have in-home care.

MYTHBUSTER: Our trained professionals will give the proper doses at the proper times with or without meals. Moreover, we have nursing staff available to manage picking up and setting out prescriptions as per your doctor’s recommendation. Don’t let myths keep you from getting the best care for your loved one with memory loss. Contact us today for a free assessment of your family’s needs.

Why Choose Thoughtful Care for Dementia Care

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 21:07:00 GMT

Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, Mission Hills, Johnson County, North Kansas City, Lee’s Summit residents are lucky. They can choose a locally owned , top quality in-home dementia care provider. Here’s what a happy client told us:

“Our dad had a fall last winter and wasin the hospital for a broken hip. My brother flew into town and we all gottogether with Mom to talk about the situation. The doctors noticed that Dad hadbeen taking medications at different dosages and at different times. His dementia was getting in the way of proper medication management, andit might have been the reason for his fall.

We called ThoughtfulCare because it’s a locally owned business in Prairie Village, and we had heard great things from our friends in Leawood, KS. The case managers came out that day to give us a free in-home assessment. They checked the safety of our home for fall risks and made some immediate changes. They asked focused questions about our family—who was there to support our dad and what his needs were. Then they put a plan of care together, which included medication management, in-home dementia care, and help driving. The professional caregivers who came gave my mom the peace of mind that she needed. And my dad was happy that he had help getting around, and he knew that he would be able to have regular hot meals when our mom was out of the house.

Now, our dad is getting the right medicine at the right time, our mom can go to a volunteer event without worrying about dad, and they both get to stay in our family home. We couldn’t be happier. Thank you, Thoughtful Care.”

Call us today to find out how we can help your family.

Top Changes that Disrupt a Person with Dementia

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 21:04:00 GMT

Routine and consistency are very important to people with dementia. In Kansas City, Johnson County, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Leawood, Lee’s Summit, and North Kansas City, caregivers and family members serve themselves well when they become aware of what can trigger bouts of anxiety or a behavioral change in a person with memory loss.

Triggers include:

Our professional caregivers ,who specialize in in-home memory care ,can help minimize intrusive changes in schedule and routine. Maintaining a safeand pleasant living environment for your loved one with dementia is our commitment. Call us today for more information about our professional memory care service s.

Best Bucket List in Kansas City for Alzheimer’s Patients

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 22:14:00 GMT

We all know what a bucket list is– that prized list of must-do activities and events people strive to achieve. At Thoughtful Care , leader of in-home memory care in Kansas City, we like to behave as though everyone should be able to experience their heart’s desires– especially people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia . Here’s a list of our favorite bucket-list items for people with memory loss in Kansas City, Johnson County, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Leawood, Lee’s Summit, and North Kansas City.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Tips: Coping with the Pain of Forgetting

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 22:42:00 GMT

Alzheimer care at home in Kansas City, Leawood, Mission Hills and North Kansas City comes with a slew of challenges. Not the least of which is coping with the fact that your loved one with memory loss is slowly losing the ability to remember family members.

If you are a providing dementia care to a loved one, your list of things to do every day gets longer as the loved one’s needs increase. Thoughtful Care, located in Johnson County, is a leader in Alzheimer’s and memory Care. Our in-home dementia caregivers can help lessen the burden and ease the pain of family senior caregivers.

Here are some of our expert ideas to help cope with the pain of forgetting.

Best Cold Weather Exercise Options in Kansas City for Alzheimer’s Patients

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 21:16:00 GMT

When winter weather closes in on Kansas City, Overland Park and Leawood, it’s tempting to forgo exercise and fitness. People with Alzheimer’s disease and seniors with memory loss are at particular risk of becoming sedentary because their condition may prohibit driving, or otherwise keep them housebound.

Studies have shown a definite link between regular exercise and the slowing of Alzheimer’s symptoms. In other words, the more time a person with Alzheimer’s spends exercising, the slower the disease may progress.

Because we have the wellness of our community in mind, Thoughtful Care has put together a list of winter exercise tips for people with memory loss living in the Kansas City area:

To help family caregivers maintain a healthy lifestyle in the home and to integrate exercise into a routine during the winter, contact us at Thoughful Care. Our professional caregivers know how to create and stick to routines for people with memory loss. We are here to help.

Financial Planning Cautions for Elderly in Overland Park

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 20:00:00 GMT

Dementia and memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s or aging can leave seniors vulnerable to health and safety issues in the home. Dementia and Alzheimer’s can also serve as a beacon for unscrupulous individuals who want to take advantage of someone who has trouble remembering day-to-day details, like personal finances, or estate plans.

In Overland Park, Leawood, Kansas City, and Mission Hills, stories abound of charming relatives– or even predatory organizations– that have taken advantage of a person with memory loss. These days, memory care can mean protecting a loved one from harmful influences in the marketplace.

At Thoughtful Care , we are interested in the well-being of our community. Here are some tips for protecting people who have memory loss from financial scams:

If a family member cannot be there full time to help, call us at Thoughtful Care to find a caregiver who can fill in. Our caregivers are vetted and checked, our company bonded and insured, so that you can be comfortable knowing that your loved one is safe in her home, or out in the world.

Preventing Falls for Alzheimer’s Patients

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 22:12:00 GMT

Safety for seniors means safety in the home, as well as outside of the home. Safety for someone with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, means keeping the environment and surroundings as predictable as possible. Falls can be prevented by foreseeing the possible hazards and conditions that could be a precursor to a trip to the hospital.

Here’s what to look out for:

Weather

In Kansas City, Overland Park, Johnson County, Mission Hills and Leawood, the weather swings to extremes that make Alzheimer’s patients more vulnerable to falls. Guard rails and well-lit pathways can make getting in and out of the house easier during foul weather.

On the other end of the spectrum, proper hydration and nutrition can prevent falls due to heat exposure or weakness when it is hot. People with Alzheimer’s may forget to drink or eat enough.

In-Home Environment

Trip hazards are a major cause of falls in seniors. Loose rugs, cords running across walkways, and poorly lit bedroom pathways to the bathroom are all dangers. Since people with Alzheimer’s can have bouts of wandering, make sure proper lighting and item-free floors are a norm.

Medication Management

If your loved one with Alzheimer’s is in charge of his or her own medication, it’s time to make a change. People with memory issues have trouble tracking their medication, which can be dangerous or deadly. Dizziness or falls can occur when some drugs interact. Have a caregiver prepare pill boxes—the kinds that allow single-day boxes to be laid out per day of the week. This can ensures that pills are taken at the right time in the right doses.

Thoughtful Care provides in-home assessments for fall risks when our professionals do an intake. Our skilled care providers can prevent falls by making sure that your loved one is safe, nourished, hydrated and taking the right medication. Call us to find out more.

Respectful Discourse with a Person Who Has Memory Loss

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 22:08:00 GMT

Isabella’s father-in-law, who lives in Mission Hills, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s three years ago. When she comes to Kansas City to visit, she finds herself at a loss when visiting with him over holidays. She doesn’t want to say the wrong thing, or agitate him in any way. Instead, she finds herself avoiding him so as not to make things worse, but at the end of the day, she doesn’t feel great about that either.

Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Lewy Body, and other forms of dementia have varying characteristics, but they all can result in dementia in an adult. Here are some tips for talking with someone who has memory loss.

The professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care can help a person with memory loss feel more comfortable. Having a professional caregiver during family events can make communicating with your loved one easier. Contact us today for more information.

*Identities have been changed.

Routines for Memory Care

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:37:00 GMT

Because dementia progresses at varying rates, every day can be different. But having a daily routine can ease anxiety in the loved one with dementia, helping to keep things calm in the long term.

In Kansas City, Leawood, Johnson County and Lenexa, the experts at Thoughtful Care help create routines tailored to our loved one’s needs.

What’s In a Routine?

A routine can be as vague as saying that every morning begins with breakfast and exercise, or as specific as having the meal plans and exercise plans lain out for each day of the week. It can mean that visitors are welcome after lunch, or that visitors are welcome on Wednesdays after lunch.

The point is that structure is very important to keeping a person who has memory loss feel secure. Why? As memory deteriorates, it becomes more difficult for a person with dementia to orient him or herself to the surroundings and circumstances.

When daily routines are predictable, the person with dementia knows what to anticipate, who will be with him or her, and what behavior is expected. It’s easier to relax knowing that he or she will be eating at a certain time every day, and will have her hair done every Monday, or that he will go swimming every Thursday.

The experienced caregivers at Thoughtful Care can help set up and follow routines so that your loved one feels safe and secure as each day passes. Contact us to find out more about how we can help your family today.

Can a Blood Test Detect Alzheimer’s?

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 21:34:00 GMT

Encouraging news for the future of Alzheimer’s research: doctors are ever closer to detecting the markers that indicate Alzheimer’s disease by using a simple blood test. Soon, blood tests could signal indicators of the disease years before symptoms arise, giving individuals who test positively for the disease time to take preventative measures and plan for the progression of the disease.

Alzheimer’s disease has traditionally been difficult to diagnose. Until the 1980’s, autopsies that revealed lesions in the brain were the only way to detect the presence of the disease.

In Kansas City, Prairie Village and Leawood, memory loss patients might be given PET scans to detect neurofibrillary tangles, where the tau protein—an indication of Alzheimer’s disease—can be seen. Until 15 years ago, taking cerebrospinal samples from the fluid around the brain and spine via spinal tap was the primary diagnostic tool.

The possibility of detecting Alzheimer’s by taking a simple blood test would not only allow patients the benefit of early detection of the disease, but could revolutionize the medicines that treat the disease. Simply put– many more people will be willing and able to submit to a blood test than a spinal tap.

Thoughtful Care is here to support you and your loved ones in facing memory loss, whether it’s Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Lewey Body, or other forms of dementia . Our top quality in-home care can be tailored to your family’s needs. Call us today to learn more.

Hot Weather Safety Tips for Seniors in Kansas City and Overland Park

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 19:40:00 GMT

Summer is here, fireflies are lighting up the night, barbecue grills are smoking, and kids are running barefoot in the yards of Overland Park and Kansas City. But it’s not all fun and games in the summer. Elderly people in particular are vulnerable to heat waves—this population having experienced a significant increase in cardiovascular deaths related to heat waves since 1999.

At Thoughtful Care, our skilled caregivers are very aware of how vulnerable their clients are to dehydration and the effects of heat. Here are some of our tips for keeping elderly loved ones—particularly those with memory loss— fit during a heat wave.

Thoughtful Care Can Help

Our skilled professionals are trained to keep clients on track, regardless of the weather. Whether it’s taking medication in the right doses at the right time, or making sure your loved one is drinking enough water, our caregivers are here to help , all year ‘round. Contact us today to find out more.

Brain Exercises for Memory Care

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 19:28:00 GMT

Brain Exercises for Memory Care

For families with a loved one who has memory loss in Kansas City and Overland Park, staying sharp is a priority. Research shows that challenging the brain can slow memory loss and strengthen neurological connections. What do we at Thoughtful Care recommend for brain health?

Check out our tips:

Thoughtful Care can help with your loved one’s memory care. Our trained professionals can use memory games and beneficial engagement to connect with your loved one. Contact us today to learn more.

Caring for a Senior with Sundown Syndrome in Kansas City

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 19:26:00 GMT

It was the end of a lovely day. Dorothy and her husband Herb had enjoyed a nice evening in Kansas City with their children and grandchildren. But as soon as they got to their home in Overland Park and walked into the dark kitchen, Dorothy clutched at Herb’s arm and asked how long they would be in this strange place. Herb had seen this happen before—especially in the evening when the shadows were long and the sun was setting. He brought Dorothy to her favorite chair and put on the radio, tuning into Dorothy’s favorite program. He walked through the house and turned on the lights, so that there were not so many dark shadows, and he sat next to her and assured her she was at home and everything was alright.

Though this story is a fictional rendering of an event, sundown syndrome is very real. Also known as sundowning, sundown syndrome is a neurological phenomenon that affects 1 in 5 people who have Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

Experts don’t have precise explanations as to why sundown syndrome occurs, but behavioral patterns suggest that the darkening day may trigger anxiety, mood changes, increased agitation and disorientation in people with dementia.

Though caregivers might be able to recognize the symptoms of sundown syndrome while it’s happening, it can be hard to control. A change in schedule, dehydration, hunger, pain, or lack of sleep could trigger a sundowning event in a loved one who has dementia, but the strain that it can put on a caregiver can have lasting effects.

Thoughtful Care is here to help. Our skilled professionals are available around the clock, and can help create an environment of support and nurture so that the loved one with dementia can get the care that he or she needs, and that the caregiver can get much needed rest. Contact us today for more information.

How Caregivers Can Take Time for Themselves

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 22:52:00 GMT

Being in a relationship with a loved one who has received a diagnosis of dementia requires that the caregiver be on guard all of the time. What if he forgets to turn off the stove? Has she’s taken her medicine? Is he really safe driving to the store? What if he gets lost?

Caregivers of people who have been diagnosed with dementia spend their days doing the physical work needed to ensure the safety and hygiene of their loved one. They may answer cyclical questions, or track lost items like keys, eyeglasses and cellphones. They may even be up at night making sure that their loved one isn’t wandering or taking medicine unnecessarily.

Scores of statistics show how caregiving affects the health of caregivers. This is why taking time out of take care of the caregiver is vitally important.

Thoughtful Care Is There for Caregivers

Thoughtful Care provides skilled in-home memory care in Kansas City, Leawood, Overland Park and Johnson County, KS. What does that mean to a person living with a partner or loved one who has dementia ? It means that we are here for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to support you. We tailor care to suit your schedule and your needs.

Our caregivers can help with chores, light cleaning, managing medications and can spend time with your loved one so that you can take a day to play golf…or play bridge with friends… or do some shopping…or take a walk.

Live your life, get the support you need, and take care of yourself, because you deserve it.

In-Home Care Success Stories in Kansas City

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 22:51:00 GMT

The phone conversation with Jill’s brother was pretty typical of a family member trying to decide the next move for an elderly parent.

“It’s not going to get easier, it’s going to get harder,” she says to her brother. “Mom’s memory isn’t great, her ability to care for herself has gone downhill, and quite frankly, I’m concerned about her being alone at night.”
“Well,” her brother says, “what should we do? Put her in a home?”

“I really don’t want that for her,” Jill says. “I wish we could keep her in the house. It means so much to her to be at home.”

Getting the Highest Quality In-Home Care

There’s a good likelihood that this conversation is happening right now, in Johnson County, Overland Park and the Kansas City metro area. Baby boomers are aging in record numbers, and their adult children are looking at options for care.

Thoughtful Care provides the opportunity for families to tailor the right amount of care so that aging adults can stay comfortably in their homes. If memory care is a concern, Thoughtful Care has in-home care providers who can monitor and care for a loved one as dementia progresses.

Knowing that a skilled professional is in the home– making sure that a loved one is eating well, taking the proper dosage of medication, being driven to appointments or social events—brings peace of mind to family members who live out of town or are working and raising kids of their own.

Aging at home is an option for active, independent senior adults. Call Thoughtful Care today to discover how we can tailor a plan that’s right for your family.

Video Games That Can Detect Early Onset Alzheimer’s

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 22:46:00 GMT

A video game called Sea Hero Quest has shown that players who have certain spatial orientation deficiencies may be more likely to develop early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

According to researchers in Nantes, France and East Anglia and London, England, the strategies needed to breeze through the different challenges in Sea Hero Quest mimic those used in real life to navigate cell phones, and computers, or even finding one’s way through town. Trouble navigating the game indicates there might be Alzheimer’s in a player’s future.

Using a video game like Sea Hero Quest to collect information about decision- making and cognitive function is a breakthrough in understanding the brain. Data that is normally collected by traditional experimentation methods can be analyzed more quickly and efficiently than ever before.

What Does Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Mean?

The brain is the most complicated organ in our bodies. Scientists and neurologists are just beginning to discover its mysteries. Cognitive diseases related to aging, like Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s and Lewey Body, are not recognized in early stages as readily as they could be.

When caught early , dementia can be treated more effectively with medication, lifestyle changes and cognition exercises. Care can be planned for more efficiently. Trained caregivers , like those from Kansas City’s Thoughtful Care, can adjust levels of care to the needs of an Alzheimer’s patient, so that he or she is able to function at a higher level.

Anticipating the progression of dementia is not a science. However, with technology like that used in developing Sea Hero Quest, science is synching up with real life. If you or a loved one has had a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s, call us at Thoughtful Care to begin creating a plan of care. We serve clients in Johnson County, Overland Park and Kansas City. We are here to help.

Tailored Dementia Care– at Home in Kansas City

Thu, 16 May 2019 20:13:00 GMT

Not only is it possible to receive top-level dementia and memory care at home in Kansas City and Johnson County, it’s preferable for many families. Thoughtful Care’s clients who benefit from the one-on-one attention of our skilled caregivers , and enjoy the familiarity of being in their home, are able to age at home with grace and dignity.

What Level of Care Is Necessary for My Loved One?

One of the benefits of working with an in-home care agency like Thoughtful Care is that the care level and routine are tailored specifically to the client’s needs. Because dementia is a progressive disease , our skilled professionals are able to recognize and track changes, communicate these changes to family members and medical professionals, and adjust a care plan accordingly.

Since our professional caregivers engage daily with their clients in their homes, these changes become evident more quickly than if the person with dementia was in a nursing home or care facility. The relationship between caregiver and client gains its own importance, especially when services and routines need to be adjusted.

Some of Thoughtful Care’s tailored services include:

Personal care assistants from Thoughtful Care get to know the people they are serving. They learn the patterns, the interests, the human qualities of the seniors they are working with. This peace of mind is worth it to families who have loved ones with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Is There a New Disease Mimicking Alzheimer’s?

Thu, 16 May 2019 20:12:00 GMT

Alzheimer’s disease, like other forms of memory loss and dementia, is generally diagnosed by recognizing a series of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include: confusion, inability to recognize common things, loss of appetite, mood swings, inability to create new memories, sundowning and other indicators. Sometimes it’s difficult for caregivers and doctors to recognize the difference between specific types of dementia, since symptoms can cross diagnoses.

What is LATE?

However, brain autopsies of patients who were thought to have Alzheimer’s are showing that a newly identified disease may be masquerading as Alzheimer’s disease. This disease, known as limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy, or LATE , may be affecting up to 17% of seniors over 80 who’ve been diagnosed with dementia. But LATE is not yet recognizable in PET scans or spinal fluid draws, like Alzheimer’s is. As of now, LATE is only identifiable after examining the brain in an autopsy.

Doctors don’t have a magic bullet for the care of dementia. Though there are drugs that slow the progression of diseases and that target cognitive function, early testing for dementia is the best way to begin to treat symptoms of dementia and to plan for the progression of the disease . Brain health is a relatively new science, though more breakthroughs are being made thanks to better imaging and clearer genetic research.

Catching dementia before it progresses is key in its treatment. Get an assessment if you think you or a loved one shows symptoms of dementia, then begin the course of recommended action. Planning for the eventualities of a disease like LATE, ALS, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s in Johnson County or Kansas City might include engaging skilled nursing professionals like those at Thoughtful Care , who are trained to help with memory skills and functions. It’s never too soon to set a course for healthy aging.

Early Detection of Alzheimer’s—A Live Event

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 19:21:00 GMT

Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City hosted experts Michelle Niedens, Licensed Social Worker, and the director of My Alliance for Cognitive Health, a community-based program focused on early detection, provider partnerships, and education and Eric Vidoni, PT, PhD, Director of the Outreach, Recruitment and Education Core for the University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center and a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Michelle and Eric lent their expertise in the live video “Why Early Detection of Dementia is Important” to speak about the importance of detecting Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages.

Watch the “Why Early Detection of Dementia is Important” livestreamed video below:

When a progressive disease like Alzheimer’s is detected in its early stages, preventative measures, treatments and lifestyle changes can be applied to effectively slow the disease. Though there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, doctors and scientists have made great strides in its treatment.

Early detection allows for more effective treatment options. A complete and thorough evaluation for the dementia is 92% accurate, so it’s worth taking the time to get checked.

Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Signs that a person might be struggling with the early stages of Alzheimer’s include:

It’s the Brain, People!

The brain is the command center for our bodies. Yet testing for dementia is rarely performed. Now that science has a better understanding of how the brain works, there are fewer stigmas around cognition than in the past. We, as a culture, are beginning to understand that we need to actively care for our “command center” and its functioning.

Family members who are noticing a decline in a loved one’s cognition and functionality should have a conversation about getting checked for dementia. Catching a cognitive disease in its early stages can help a loved one live a happier, more fulfilling life.

At Thoughtful Health Care, we are in the business of providing in-home care for people with memory issues like Alzheimer’s. Please contact us for more information about the services we provide to families in the Kansas City metro area.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Wandering and Safety—A Live Event

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 19:13:00 GMT

Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City welcomed Chief of Prairie Village Police, Tim Schwartzkopf and Dr. James Birch, Jr., Associate Professor of Family Medicine at The University of Kansas School of Medicine as guests to speak in the livestream video “Preventing Wandering and Promoting Safety.” These experts spoke with Tim about preventing incidents and handling safety issues both inside and outside of the home.

Watch the “Preventing Wandering and Promoting Safety” video below:

Safety Begins in the Home

Professionals agree, prevention is the best way to handle safety issues. When a diagnosis of dementia is received, act quickly to identify risks by following several steps:

Safety Outside of the Home

Wandering and being out and about are risks for people who have dementia. There are technologies that can be a help, such as GPS apps for the loved one’s phone. But there is no guarantee that the loved one will remember to take the phone on a regular basis.

Alert the Sheriff’s Office to let them know that a person at a particular address has dementia. Tell neighbors to keep an eye out. Install an alarm on the door to alert a caregiver if the person with dementia has left the house.

When the problems outweigh the solutions, it’s an indicator that your loved one may need more care. Our professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care are here to support your family in caring for a loved one at home. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

When Driving Becomes Dangerous

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 19:08:00 GMT

Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City has had to answer a very important question from clients for many years. When—and how—do we take the car keys away? In the video, “When Driving Becomes Dangerous,” Tim helps identify and address some of these issues to help family members take control of a potentially dangerous situation.

Watch the “When Driving Becomes Dangerous” video below:

Dementia and Driving

As Americans—and especially as Americans living in the Midwest—driving is a big part of our daily lives. Driving represents independence and freedom. It’s how we get our groceries, see our family, do the things we need to do every day.

But at some point for people with dementia, driving needs to come to a hard stop.

When do we make the leap and take the keys away? Here are some signals that the time is right:

Then What?

Look for the opportunity to talk about driving. Any of the above indicators could signal the need for the conversation. Don’t expect this conversation to be easy; be firm, stick to your convictions. Focus on the safety of your loved one, and mention that other drivers and pedestrians may be at risk. Hiding the keys may be a good option, or else unplugging the car battery, or changing the garage door code.

Regardless of how you decide to manage this issue, it’s an indicator that your loved one may need more care. Our professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care are here to support your family in caring for a loved one at home. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Getting the Family on Board When a Loved One Has Dementia

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 20:36:00 GMT

When a member of the family is diagnosed with dementia, the family dynamic will inevitably change. Mom might no longer be able to give thoughtful advice. Dad may lose the thread of an important conversation. When this happens, different members of the family may shift into new roles.

Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City has seen these family dynamic changes among his clients for many years. In the “Getting the Family Onboard” video, Tim helps identify and address some of these issues in order to make getting everyone on the same page easier.

Watch “Getting the Family Onboard” below:

Denial Is Common

Often in families who are faced with the challenges that dementia brings, some members of the family will fall into a state of denial. Some people are so uncomfortable with such a profound change that they feel safer denying that anything is wrong.

Our advice for the more pragmatic members of the family? Face this person with compassion, but don’t expect that he or she will be able to contribute to decision making. Everyone has his or her own emotional timeline, and some people are naturally more suited to planning and decision-making than others.

Taking Action

Our professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care are here to support your family in caring for a loved one at home. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Preparing for the Holidays with a Loved One Who Has Dementia

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 20:33:00 GMT

As dementia progresses, being more flexible with holiday traditions will make everyone a little happier, says Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City.

In the “Preparing for the Holidays” video, we’ll help walk you through holidays with a loved one who has dementia. A little planning and a lot of flexibility will pay off when celebrating together.

Watch the “Preparing for the Holidays” video below:

Communicate with Family before the Holidays

Because dementia progresses at uneven rates, friends and family from out of town might not have a clear understanding of what to expect. Here are some tips for getting everyone on the same page:

Do’s and Don’ts

And remember: our professional caregivers at Thoughtful Care are here to support you, and can help with holiday events and outings with your loved one as part of a routine. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

The Caregiver’s Self-Care Guide

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 20:29:00 GMT

Living with Dementia

Living with dementia is demanding, putting strain on caregivers that has lasting impact. Although dementia has different diagnoses—whether it’s Alzheimer’s Parkinson’s Disease, Lewey Body Dementia or other forms of memory loss—the strain on the caregiver is a proven fact. That’s why our professionals at Thoughtful Care have put together a self-care guide for those caring for loved ones with dementia.

In the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video, you’ll find helpful tips and ideas from Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City.

Watch the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video below:

Did you know:

Caregivers who provide care for persons with dementia risk comprising their immune systems for up to 3 years after their caregiving experience ends, thus increasing their chances of developing a chronic illness themselves. [National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP. (2009)]

About 40% of family caregivers of people with dementia suffer from depression compared to 5-17% of non-caregivers of similar ages. Rates of depression increase with the severity of cognitive impairment of the person with dementia. [Alzheimer’s Association. (2015)]

Here are our top 3 self-care action items for caregivers:

Caregivers can be spouses, children, neighbors or friends. They can live in Prairie Village, in Kansas City, in Leawood or in other Kansas City suburbs. They may be in their golden years or they may be parents of small children. But one thing caregivers have in common is that they feel true effects of caring for someone with dementia. So take a deep breath, know that you are not alone, and take care of yourself!

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Connecting with a Loved One Who Has Dementia

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 19:36:00 GMT

Because dementia progresses at varying rates, and because the disease allows for moments of clarity between bouts of forgetting, making a connection can be challenging.

In this video, Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care in Kansas City, shares tips and ideas for maintaining a relationship with a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia.

Watch the “Connecting with a Loved One Who Has Dementia” video below.

Keep the Focus on the Loved One

Set your goals appropriately. Dementia is a moving target, which can be confusing or frustrating for family and friends. An immediate fix to frustration is to lower your expectations—it’s okay if the visit isn’t perfect. Enjoyment is the goal here.

Try to meet your loved one where he or she is. Take a little time to adjust your expectations to what is, rather than what used to be.

Remain Upbeat

Attitude is everything! Your positive words, your smile, your kindness and curiosity will make a difference for your loved one. Just knowing that you brought your best self to the visit will make you feel good as well.

Arguments Are a Waste of Time

Set aside conflicts, because arguing with a person with dementia is a losing battle. The disease is frustrating, but the person behind the disease is still human.

Enjoy the Time You Have

Nothing is permanent, even the current stage of your loved one’s dementia. Do what you can to listen, to bring back fond memories, or reminisce over happy stories.

Our experts at Thoughtful Health Care are here to support you in keeping your loved one safely and happily at home. Contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

The Financial Tipping Point

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 19:36:00 GMT

In this informative video, Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Kansas City’s Thoughtful Healthcare and its affiliates, looks at the costs associated with caring for a loved one with dementia.

Watch “The Financial Tipping Point” video below.

Did you know that 68% of caregivers report making concessions at work because of their caregiving obligations? This means that the caregiver’s duties at home impact their ability to earn money as well. Caregiving is not only expensive, but the responsibility carries time-related costs as well.

That’s why it’s important to figure out the point at which help needs to be considered. More than that, it’s crucial to figure out how many assets are available to help pay for caregiving help.

The earlier you can begin to clarify the planning aspects of caring for a loved one with dementia, the more ready you and your family will be ready for the progression of the disease. We at Thoughtful Care are here to help. Professional care is a phone call away.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Planning an Outing with a Loved One Who Has Dementia

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 19:36:00 GMT

“Proper Planning Prevents Problems.” This phrase will make all of the difference when preparing for an outing with a loved one who has dementia, says Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City.

In our “Planning an Outing” video, you’ll find helpful tips and ideas for getting your loved one out and about in a safe way.

Watch the “Planning an Outing” video below.

Why Is It Important to Plan Outings?

People who have dementia can suffer from isolation and depression. Making an effort to keep a loved one engaged and social can keep him or her feeling upbeat and lively.

Also, an outing gives a loved one something to look forward to, and enlivens the day-to-day routine.

Do’s and Don’ts

Our professional caregivers at Thoughtful Health Care are here to support you, and can help plan and attend outings with your loved one as part of a routine. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

The Plan of Care

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 23:11:00 GMT

Proper Planning Prevents Problems

Did you know that a simple document can ease the chaos of caregiving for a loved one who has dementia? How, you may ask, can a written document make dementia easier to cope with?

In this video, Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Healthcare and its affiliates in Kansas City, reveals one of tricks of the homecare trade: creating a Plan of Care.

Watch “The Plan of Care” video below.

What is a Plan of Care?

A Plan of Care is a document that is used by family members and caregivers to assimilate and organize all of the important information relevant to the person with dementia. Once the Plan of Care has been set up, family members and caregivers can update it and edit it as needed. All a visitor needs to do is to check the document to see what is on the schedule, which medications need to be taken, activities that the loved one likes to engage in, and emergency contacts to call.

Easier Transitions

When the time comes for professional care, the Plan of Care is immediately useful for in-home caregivers, like the trained professionals at Thoughtful Care. It’s a tremendously useful document that can save hours of headache and miscommunication.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Anticipating the Progression of Dementia

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 22:58:00 GMT

After a diagnosis has been given and the family begins to learn about the disease, it’s important to understand that dementia progresses at varying– and sometimes unpredictable– rates. Making plans for eventualities is very important for families with loved ones who have dementia.

To help answer some questions about dementia’s progression, Kansas City native Tim Tholen, Founder and CEO of Thoughtful Healthcare and its affiliates, goes over important issues to be aware of in this video.

Watch the “Anticipating the Progression of Dementia” video below.

Loved ones who care for a person with dementia might feel overwhelmed by the changes that are associated with dementia’s progression. In this video, we outline steps to take to help manage the moving parts: from creating a routine for your loved one with dementia, to getting the family communicating about the future.

Don’t let the progression of dementia surprise you and your family. Get informed, be empowered, and call us at Thoughtful Healthcare for support.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

Mom’s Been Diagnosed with Dementia, Now What?

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 22:44:00 GMT

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia in a loved one can raise a host of questions. Thoughtful Healthcare and our affiliates have created a video specifically for new caregivers, to help them understand the steps to take once a diagnosis of dementia has been given.

It can be overwhelming to try to fit the pieces together, but Tim Tholen, Founder and CEO of Thoughtful Healthcare, walks viewers through the process, giving answers for questions that families living in Kansas City might not have considered to ask.

Watch the “Mom’s Been Diagnosed with Dementia” video below.

Loved ones caring for people diagnosed with dementia will want to know about the diagnosis itself—not all dementia diagnoses are Alzheimer’s. Progressions of diseases can vary, so it’s important to educate yourself about treatments and new medications. Routines will probably need to be altered, and more support may be needed.

That’s where Thoughtful Care comes in—we are a locally owned, Kansas City metro area in-home care provider here to support you and your loved ones. Contact us for more information. We are here to help.

Click here for more Alzheimer and dementia care videos.

For more information about Thoughtful Care visit the Thoughtful Care website .

7 Tips for Long-Distance Alzheimer’s Caregiving

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Your mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimers (or other form of dementia). She’s in Kansas City. You’re not. How can you help? Here are some tips for long-distance caregiving:

1. Plan regular visits.

Visit your mom as soon as possible to assess the situation. You’ll need to get a feel for how the dementia is currently affecting her daily life and plan ahead for disease progression .

Before you leave, schedule regular visits. If you’re unable to get time off (or can’t afford to travel at regular intervals) schedule Skype calls, or even regular phone calls, so you can stay up-to-date.

2. Safeguard the home.

During your first home visit, there are several things you can do to improve home safety for your mom. Examples include posting important phone numbers in prominent places, improving lighting, removing clutter, and installing locks and alarms.

3. Set up reminders.

You can buy recording devices online or in Kansas City technology stores that can send your mom voice reminders to do things like take her medications, prepare for an appointment, stay in the house, and more. They come in a variety of formats (e.g., bedside or table clocks, recorders, smartphone apps).

4. Learn Alzheimer’s communication skills.

As your mom’s disease progresses, her memory loss will make it difficult to communicate. So you’ll have to learn some new Alzheimer’s communication techniques . You may also want to learn what not to say to someone with dementia .

5. Embrace technology.

If your mom doesn’t have a tablet, it might be helpful to invest in one. There are a number of simple apps for people with Alzheimer’s that will help with things like wandering, medication reminders, or cognitive training.

There are also some uncomplicated technological devices (e.g., communication aids, recording devices) for people with Alzheimer’s that you can buy online or in most Kansas City department stores.

6. Utilize Kansas City Alzheimer’s resources .

You’re going to need all the help you can get. If you know your mom’s friends or neighbors, and/or she’s a member of a church community, accept any help that is offered. It also doesn’t hurt to ask. Make a list of the things you need (e.g., meal preparation, transportation to and from appointments, wellness checks) and ask people to sign up.

For educational resources, support groups, and more, check out our post on Kansas City Alzheimer’s resources .

7. Get help.

There will come a time when your mom will need more help than you can provide from a distance. So you’ll want to enlist the help of a Kansas City home health agency with expertise in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A good home care agency can help with things like bathing and grooming, transportation, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.

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Caring for Someone with Dementia While Employed

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 13:00:00 GMT

You’re working full time at a Kansas City job you love, and your wife (or another loved one) has just been diagnosed with dementia. Now what? Here are some tips that might help:

Talk to your employer. Let your employer know you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. Explore possibilities to ease your burden, such as flexible work hours, working from home, or going from full-time to part-time employment.

Take a brief leave of absence. Use the time to safeguard your home and determine who will see to your loved one’s needs while you’re at work.

Check with your human resources department to see if you’re entitled to paid time off under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The FMLA won’t kick in until you’ve used up your sick time, but it allows you to take additional time off without using your personal or vacation time.

Educate yourself. Prepare yourself to deal with certain physical limitations and behavioral aspects of dementia before they develop. Examples include wandering , aggression , communication issues , sleep problems , and incontinence. The more prepared you are in advance, the less distracted you’ll be at work as your loved one’s dementia progresses.

Gather support. If you have family and friends in Kansas City, find out who’s available and willing to help. Determine your needs and ask for volunteers. People who say they’re willing to help often don’t know how unless you’re specific in what you need. And some people are more suited to certain tasks than others.

Some of the things you might need include adult day care, transportation to and from appointments, meal preparation, bathing and grooming, and/or housekeeping.

Access Kansas City Alzheimer’s resources. There are a lot of Alzheimer’s resources in the Kansas City area. For example, the Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter has developed a library of Alzheimer’s resources and a list of Kansas City Alzheimer’s support group. They also offer a 24/7 Alzheimer’s helpline.

Get outside help. If you don’t have enough family and friends to provide for your loved one’s care while you’re working, you may want to enlist the help of a Kansas City home health agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A good home care agency can give you peace of mind while you’re at work by providing Alzheimer’s day care right in your home.

Connecting with a Loved One With Dementia

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Relationship dynamics change when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. And it can be hard to find ways to communicate or connect. Here are some tips for dementia caregivers:

Find new ways to communicate. Communicating with someone who has dementia can be frustrating. Odds are you’ll have to do most of the talking, especially in the later stages of your loved one’s disease. Keep questions to a minimum, and stick to those with “yes” or “no” answers.

Be prepared to tell your loved one about your day or what your kids or grandkids have been doing. Or the new Kansas City restaurant you tried.

And don’t argue. You won’t win. If an argument seems imminent, change the subject.

Learn what not to say. Knowing what not to say to someone with dementia can be just as important as finding new communication strategies. For example, if your loved one is looking for a deceased relative, don’t remind him (or her) that person is dead. Just say something like, “She’s not here right now,” and change the subject.

Plan activities in which your loved one with dementia can participate. If your loved one is unable to participate in the usual family activities, find new things that you can all do together . Some examples may include looking at old photos, listening to music, baking cookies, or just taking a walk around your Kansas City neighborhood.

Maintain a positive attitude. Dementia can cause frustration for both you and the person who has dementia. Starting each day with a positive outlook can set the tone for the rest of the day.

Be flexible. Unfortunately, dementia is a progressive illness. So you’ll have to learn to adapt to new routines and activities as your loved one’s disease progresses. For example, you may need to replace “game night” with “movie night” when games become too difficult for the person with dementia.

Get help if you need it. Being a dementia caregiver is challenging, so it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Remember, you can’t be an effective caregiver if you don’t also take care of yourself. Enlisting the help of Kansas City home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care can take some of the pressure off of you and allow you some much needed respite.

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Planning in Advance for Dementia Care Costs

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 13:00:00 GMT

The cost of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, or other form of dementia, can vary greatly depending on what type of care the person needs and for how long. If you, or someone you love, have been diagnosed with dementia, advance financial planning can help you determine how much money you have vs. what type of expenses lie ahead. Here are some financial planning tips:

Review insurance policies. Compare your loved one’s plan to the services needed. Does it cover her (or his) treatments, follow-up appointments, and medications? What about assistive devices (e.g., wheelchair, walker)? Does your loved one have long term care insurance? If so, review the plan to see if it covers home care in addition to facility care. It helps to know what coverage is available when considering treatment options.

Create a healthcare budget. Your loved one’s healthcare team can help give you an idea of what costs you can expect moving forward. Determine how much money is coming in each month vs. how much is being spent. Look at bank statements and retirement funds. Factor in items you may be able to sell for cash as expenses increase. For example, your loved one may no longer need a car, may have stocks she can sell, and may also have a home that can be sold when she can no longer live alone. Also, decide if you and/or family members have money you can afford to contribute.

Compare costs. Talk to an agency that provides Kansas City home health services to get a realistic idea of how much help you can afford. For example, in the earlier stages of dementia, part-time services may be sufficient. As the disease progresses, you’ll likely need more help. If you think facility care may be an option in the future, compare those costs to those of in-home care.

Work with your healthcare providers. Be honest about how much you can afford to spend. Ask about any Kansas City (or government) financial aid programs or free (or low-cost) community services that might be available to help.

Adjust your budget as needed. As dementia progresses, expenses increase. And there’s really no way to know at what point that will happen. So you’ll need to review your budget periodically to make sure you’re not overspending.

Get help. Alzheimer’s or dementia caregiving is tough enough without also being responsible for financial planning. So it may be helpful to hire a financial advisor to help you plan for upcoming expenses. A good financial advisor may also be able to help you find additional financial assistance.

For more information about THOUGHTFUL CARE services, or to view more topics in our Care Video Library, visit https://www.thoughtfulcare.com/care-videos .

Developing a Dementia Care Plan

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 13:00:00 GMT

You’ve probably heard the word care plan before, but you may or may not know exactly what it is or why someone with dementia might need one.

For a person with Alzheimer’s, or other form of dementia, the care plan is an outline of his or her daily routine, current needs, and medical status. It lets you, and everyone on your medical team, know who is responsible for what and when. Which is particularly important for people with dementia because their short-term memory has been compromised, and they’ll need a lot of help as the disease progresses.

Here are some tips for developing a dementia care plan:

Get organized.

Determine who all will have access to the plan and how it will be documented and shared. Assign roles for different aspects of care, including who is responsible for updating the care plan.

Create a daily schedule.

People with Alzheimer’s, or other form of dementia, tend to be more comfortable with a daily routine. So set scheduled times for things like meals, bathing and grooming, activities, quiet time, and a daily walk around your Kansas City neighborhood (and/or other forms of exercise).

Address current and potential upcoming issues.

Some things to consider include home safety , communication barriers , aggression, shared activities , medication management , transportation, financial resources, and sleep problems .

Note behavioral patterns.

To avoid potential behavioral problems, try to identify any triggers. For example, if your loved one gets agitated or aggressive, note things like the time of day, noise level, and/or medication changes.

Review and update, as needed.

Care plans need to evolve as dementia progresses. Periodically review the plan, and update as needed.

Get help

If you need help developing a care plan or implementing your plan of care, contact a Kansas City home health agency that specializes in dementia or Alzheimer’s.

For more information about THOUGHTFUL CARE services, or to view more topics in our Care Video Library, visit https://www.thoughtfulcare.com/care-videos .

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Dementia Checklist: Preparing for What Lies Ahead

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 17:21:00 GMT

It’s hard to know how much time you’ll have to prepare for the future if you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. Disease progression can vary greatly from one person to the next. So for your peace of mind (or for the sake of a loved one who will be caring for you) there are some things that need to be discussed in advance. Here’s a checklist to help make sure you’re covered:

Determine what resources are available. Living with Alzheimer’s or being an Alzheimer’s caregiver is tough, so you’ll want to take advantage of the Kansas City Alzheimer’s resources that are available. Educational resources are particularly important; they can prepare you for meeting new challenges head on.

Evaluate lifestyle. Be aware of what you (or your loved one with dementia) do on a day-to-day basis. If you own a computer, make a list of passwords for future reference. Consider what else you might need to do that will help as the disease progresses.

Develop routines. It’s important for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia to have daily routines. A consistent routine will help with focus, decrease anxiety, and allow for some sense of independence. Create a family calendar and enlist volunteers to help with appointments.

Store all relevant care information in one place. Get a notebook to store all important information about your dementia care. Include all medical and legal contacts, family contact information, test results, a current medication list, a weekly appointment calendar, and anything else for which you might need easy access. This will also help as you make the transition to home care or long-term care.

Encourage healthy living. As you’re establishing a daily routine, make sure you include activities that encourage healthy living and eat healthy meals. If you don’t already have an exercise routine, consider enlisting family members for a 30-minute walk around your Kansas City neighborhood after dinner each night. If you live alone and don’t have relatives nearby, you might want to purchase a treadmill instead. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy.

Deal with financial and legal issues. You’ll want to make sure you (or your loved one with dementia) develop a living will and designate a healthcare power of attorney before the disease becomes too advanced. You’ll also want to designate a financial power of attorney and put alerts on credit cards to curb overspending.

Know where to go for help. While you’re still able, develop a plan for the future. Choose a Kansas City home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care to help with bathing and grooming, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and cognitive exercises. If your plan is to eventually transition to long-term care, you’ll also want to tour facilities with experience in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.

For more information about THOUGHTFUL CARE services, or to view more topics in our Care Video Library, visit https://www.thoughtfulcare.com/care-videos .

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7 Tips for Managing Incontinence in Someone With Dementia

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 23:23:00 GMT

It’s heart breaking to see someone you love begin to lose control of bodily functions; and dealing with urinary or fecal incontinence can be really awkward. Not just for the caregiver, but also for the person with dementia. Here’s how you can help:

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What to Do if a Parent is Diagnosed With Dementia

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 21:57:00 GMT

We all become forgetful with age. But if your mom frequently forgets recent conversations, is unable to answer simple questions, and/or often seems confused, she may be suffering from dementia. So, what do you do next? Here are some suggestions:

Get a definitive diagnosis. Before you begin planning for dementia care, you need a definitive dementia diagnosis. Since there’s more than one type of dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Huntington’s disease), you’ll need to know which type you’re dealing with in order to develop a plan of care.

Start with a visit to your mom’s primary care physician to rule out any illnesses, allergies, or medication reactions/interactions that could be causing the dementia symptoms. Once other medical issues have been ruled out, ask for a referral to a Kansas City dementia care specialist.

Educate yourself. Look to appropriate organizations (e.g., Alzheimer’s Association, Lewy Body Dementia Association) for educational resources related to your mom’s dementia diagnosis. Also learn communication techniques and things not to say to someone with dementia . Look for activities that will engage your mom and allow you to spend more quality time with her.

Identify support systems. Who will you be able to contact to help with caregiving, appointments, and/or respite? Do you have siblings nearby who are willing to help? Friends? Neighbors? If your mom is a church member, does the congregation offer any formal or informal assistance? Do you attend a church or live in a community where people might be willing to lend a hand?

Ask for what you need. Write down a schedule of what you need and when. For example, do you need someone to help run errands? Take your mom to appointments? Help with house cleaning or meals? Visit with your mom while you take an afternoon off? Distribute the list to those who have agreed to help and request volunteers. Update and redistribute the list periodically.

Get outside help. If you don’t have friends, family, or neighbors to help you care for your mom, or if you’re beginning to feel overwhelmed, enlist the help of a Kansas City home health agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A good home care agency can help with things like bathing and grooming, cognitive games, transportation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and more.

Preventing Malnutrition and Dehydration in Someone with Alzheimer’s

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:23:00 GMT

Dehydration and malnutrition are common in people with Alzheimer’s. So as a caregiver, you’ll need to take preventive measures. Here are some ways you can help.

Stick to a schedule. Keep in mind that people with Alzheimer’s have impaired memories. In the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s, your loved one may forget how much she (or he) has had to eat or drink that day. Or just forget to prepare meals. In the later stages, she may not remember how to cook, where the dishes are, or how to pour a glass of water.

Keep track of what your loved one is eating and drinking. Schedule meals and offer water throughout the day.

Check for dental problems. If your loved one with dementia has a problem with her teeth, gums, or dentures that is causing pain, she may not think to mention it. And may instead not want to drink anything hot or cold or eat anything that requires chewing. So ask about pain when eating or drinking and if need be, visit your loved one’s Kansas City dentist.

Prepare nutritious meals. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be draining, especially if you’re also working and raising children. So it’s understandable that you may not always have the time to prepare a nutritious meal. If ordering takeout, try to make choices that are high in fiber, fruits and vegetables, and antioxidants, and low in fat.

Stay on top of depression. Depression is common in people with Alzheimer’s, especially in the earlier stages. And depression can lead to loss of appetite. If your loved one begins withdrawing from social events, loses interest in activities she once enjoyed, and/or stops eating regularly, discuss these potential symptoms of depression with her primary care physician.

Make meals enjoyable. Share mealtimes with the person who has dementia and gently remind her to eat her food if she gets distracted. Offer help if needed. Also, keep the noise to a minimum, as it may cause agitation.

Get help. If you need help preparing healthy meals for your loved one or sticking to a daily meal schedule, get help from a Kansas City home care agency that provides meal preparation services and feeding assistance.

Sleep Deprivation in Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Being a caregiver of someone who requires 24/7 care is tough under any circumstances. Add in dealing with confusion, aggression, sundowning, wandering, and all the other behaviors that go along with Alzheimer’s disease, and it’s not a wonder why as an Alzheimer’s caregiver, you may be sleep deprived.

But here’s why it’s so important for you to get the sleep you need. Sleep deprivation can:

Sleep deprivation in Alzheimer’s caregivers is often caused by caregiver stress. Here are some things you can do that may help:

Managing Alzheimer’s Caregiver Stress

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a 24/7 job. It’s also both physically and emotionally demanding. So it’s no wonder that Alzheimer’s caregivers frequently find themselves stressed. And many caregivers end up neglecting their own health by not getting enough sleep, proper nutrition, exercise, and down time. Here are some things you can do to manage Alzheimer’s caregiver stress:

Tap into community resources. Kansas City has lots of Alzheimer’s resources , including educational materials, health care providers, support groups, and more.

Delegate tasks. Sometimes people want to help, but don’t know how. Write down anything you can think of that you need help with (e.g., running errands, cooking, cleaning, providing respite). Then ask people who have offered to help to take on specific tasks.

Stay active. Exercise can reduce stress, improve mood, and give you more energy. If you can’t seem to carve out 30 minutes a day for exercise, try breaking it up into 10-minute increments.

Eat right. Eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits, and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy can increase your energy level; it can also prevent diet-related illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Use relaxation techniques. Relaxation techniques can slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, help you sleep better, and reduce fatigue. Some examples include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and/or visualization. Music therapy may also benefit not only you, but also your loved one with Alzheimer’s.

Take a break. You need some time to yourself to relax and rejuvenate. Ask a close friend or family member to take over caregiving every so often so you can get away for an afternoon, or even just for a few hours. If you don’t have anyone nearby who can help, enlist the assistance of a Kansas City home health agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care and provides respite services .

Repetitive Behaviors in People With Alzheimer’s

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Repetitive behaviors (e.g., doing or saying the same thing over and over) are common in people who have Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. Some repetition can be attributed to short-term memory loss (i.e., the person simply can’t remember what he or she just did or said). Other causes may include anxiety, frustration, insecurity, or an attempt to communicate a specific need or thought.

Whatever the cause, repetition can be annoying and/or frustrating for Kansas City Alzheimer’s caregivers. Here are some things you can do that may stop repetitive behaviors:

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When Your Loved One With Alzheimer’s Needs Hospital Care

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 13:00:00 GMT

My mom had Alzheimer’s disease. She also had Multiple Myeloma (a type of cancer), diabetes, and many other illnesses.

It’s not uncommon for people with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia to have multiple chronic conditions. And Alzheimer’s can lead to additional health problems.

So an occasional trip to the hospital is to be expected. And that can be pretty scary for someone with dementia. Here are some tips to ease the stress of hospitalization:

Tell your loved one where you’re going. My mom would start crying every time we told her she needed to leave her Kansas City home. I think she may have been afraid we were going to take her to a nursing home and leave her. We had to continuously remind her where we were taking her until after the car pulled out of the driveway. Then she’d begin to relax and enjoy the ride.

Come prepared. Bring a current medication list, your loved one’s living will and power of attorney paperwork, insurance cards, clean underwear, toiletries, contact numbers, and a comfort item (e.g., pillow, blanket).

Talk to staff. Let them know what types of behaviors are typical and what they can do to make your loved one more comfortable without the use of restraints. Keep in mind your loved one may become more agitated and combative when in unfamiliar surroundings.

Request a private room, if feasible. A private room will minimize background noise and decrease the number of people entering and exiting the room.

Be present. If possible, have someone stay with your family member at all times. A person with dementia will have trouble asking and answering questions, and may act out due to fear and an inability to communicate. Having someone there at all times can help make your loved one more comfortable and also prevent potential medical errors. If you can’t be there 24/7, try to be at the hospital during physician rounds, and at mealtimes so you can help with eating.

Involve your loved one as much as possible. Don’t talk about the person with Alzheimer’s as though he or she isn’t present. It’s demeaning, and can also increase frustration.

Get help. If you’re unable to stay with your loved one during his or hospital stay, enlist the help of a Kansas City home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A home health worker can take notes, ask questions for you, help with meals and menu choices, decrease agitation, prevent falls, keep your loved one company, and more.

Communication Help for People with Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Communication is difficult for people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia. It’s also not easy for someone who doesn’t have Alzheimer’s to communicate with someone who does. Here are some tips that might help improve communication between people with dementia and their friends and family members and/or caregivers.

Communication Help for People with Alzheimer’s

If you’re in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, here are some things you can do to maintain some of your communication skills:

Communication Help for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

If you’re providing Alzheimer’s home care, here are some things you can do to improve communication between you and the person who has dementia:

The Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 13:00:00 GMT

When most people hear the word “dementia,” they immediately think of Alzheimer’s. So it may surprise you to hear that Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are not necessarily the same thing.

Dementia is a term used for impaired brain function (e.g., memory loss, personality changes) to the extent that it interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia.

Dementia Types

There are several different kinds of dementia, including:

Alzheimer’s disease: Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, and also the most well known. It’s a progressive disease that causes memory loss, deterioration of thinking skills, and behavioral problems. Alzheimer’s is characterized by amyloid plaques and tangled fibers in the brain. It’s thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Vascular dementia: People who have vascular dementia have impaired blood flow to the brain, which causes memory loss and impaired reasoning and judgement. It’s most commonly caused by stroke or by a series of silent strokes.

Frontotemporal dementia: Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders that lead to degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This type of dementia can lead to personality changes, socially-inappropriate behavior, memory loss, speech problems, and mood swings. Frontotemporal dementia is genetic.

Huntington’s disease: People with Huntington’s disease have a defective gene that causes degeneration of the brain’s nerve cells. Symptoms usually appear at a younger age than in most people with Alzheimer’s (30s-50s). Huntington’s disease can cause involuntary movement or jerking of the limbs, head, and torso; problems with balance; impaired thinking and reasoning skills; slurred speech; mood swings; and trouble swallowing.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease: Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a progressive brain disorder in which the brain deteriorates rapidly. Symptoms may include memory loss, personality changes, depression or anxiety, vision problems, poor muscle coordination, difficulty speaking, and muscle spasms or jerking motions. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease can be hereditary, develop for no apparent reason, or be transmitted by contact with infected human tissue (e.g., via organ transplant, infected medical instrument).

Alzheimer’s or Other Dementia?

If you or a loved one are having memory problems that are interfering with everyday life, ask your primary care physician for a referral to a Kansas City neurologist. Your neurologist can help to determine what type of dementia you’re dealing with.

Once you’ve been diagnosed, your doctor can direct you to Kansas City Alzheimer’s or dementia resources (e.g., educational materials, support groups, clinical trials).

Need Help?

If you have Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia, you may need to enlist the help of a Kansas City home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. A good home care agency can help with things like bathing and grooming, meal preparation, light housekeeping, mental stimulation, transportation, and more.

Living with Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 13:00:00 GMT

If you’re diagnosed with Alzheimer’s while in your 30s, 40s or 50s, you’ll likely be faced with a lot more challenges than your older counterparts.

For example, people with younger-onset Alzheimer’s, also known as early-onset Alzheimer’s, are more likely to:

Here are some things you can do to prepare yourself for life with early-onset Alzheimer’s:

Tap Kansas City Alzheimer’s Resources

Kansas City has a multitude of Alzheimer’s resources that will help you find appropriate healthcare, Alzheimer’s information, Alzheimer’s home care , support groups, and more.

Tackle Career Issues

If you’d like to continue working, you may want to consider sharing your diagnosis with your direct supervisor. See if there are options available that will allow you to work shorter hours, adapt your job responsibilities, and/or switch to a job that will better suit your abilities.

While you’re still working, you’ll want to visit your human resources department and review your benefits. In particular, ask about:

Address Changing Family Dynamics

As your disease progresses, you and your spouse may no longer be able to be equal partners in raising your children. Your relationship with your spouse will also change. Here are some things to consider:

Manage Legal Matters

Talk to a financial counselor and an attorney about current and future financial needs. Some things you may want to discuss include:

Make sure your spouse or next of kin knows how to take care of the family finances and has copies of all of these documents and your life insurance policy.

Maintain Independence

Just because you’ve been diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean you can’t still maintain some sense of independence. Here are some things you can do:

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Common Medical Problems in People with Dementia

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Medical problems in people with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia often go unnoticed due to impaired communication between the person with dementia and the caregiver. If you’re caring for someone who has dementia, here are some potential health problems to look out for:

Pain. People who have dementia still feel pain, but may not be able to tell you when they’re hurting. Watch facial expressions for grimacing, and look for signs of agitation. Behavioral changes, such as yelling or striking out can also be signs of pain. When in doubt, offer pain medications as prescribed, or call your Kansas City Alzheimer’s doctor.

Dehydration. Preventing dehydration in someone who has dementia can be challenging. People with dementia may not think to drink enough water throughout the day. They may be on medications that cause them to lose water. Or mobility issues may make it difficult to get a drink when they’re thirsty.

Signs of dehydration may include increased confusion, dry mouth, rapid heart rate, cracked lips, or dark urine. Try to keep track of daily fluid intake, especially during hot weather, and offer water on a regular basis (Aim for at least six glasses a day.).

Constipation. Lack of mobility, certain medications, and dietary changes can all contribute to constipation in people who have Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. Offer foods that are high in fiber (e.g., prunes, oatmeal, broccoli, beans, flaxseeds) and plenty of water.

Fever. A fever greater than 100.4 ° F in someone with dementia can indicate infection, dehydration, or heat exhaustion. In case of fever, call your Kansas City Alzheimer’s doctor.

Flu . People with dementia have a higher risk of complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, because their immune systems are compromised. If you’re providing dementia home care, make sure the person you’re caring for gets a flu shot each year. If he or she develops symptoms of the flu (e.g., fever, cough, runny nose, chills), call your Kansas City Alzheimer’s doctor.

Falls/Injuries. People with dementia can be unsteady on their feet, and are at a greater risk for falls. To reduce the risk of injuries, make sure pathways are well lit and free of clutter, install grab bars in bathrooms, remove throw rugs, and provide shoes with good traction.

Need help?

Providing in home care for seniors with dementia can be more than a little challenging. If you need help, contact a Kansas City home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

What to Tell Kids About Alzheimer’s Disease

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 13:00:00 GMT

It’s difficult enough for an adult to comprehend and adjust to what’s happening when a loved one suddenly develops Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia. Imagine how your children must feel when Grandma or Grandpa starts behaving oddly and doesn’t always seem to know them. Or can’t remember the last trip you all took to the Kansas City Zoo.

So how do you explain Alzheimer’s to a child or a teenager? Here are some suggestions:

Be honest, but keep it simple. Kids know when something’s wrong, and are bound to have questions. So if your child asks, “What’s wrong with Grandma?” tell the truth, but keep your answer simple. For example, you might say something like, “Grandma is sick. Her illness makes it hard for her to remembering things anymore.” Make it clear this is something that won’t go away in a few days like a cold or the flu.

Address any additional questions. Children are naturally inquisitive, so ask your child if he/she has any more questions about Grandma’s illness. Or about anything odd that Grandma has said or done. Again, keep your answers simple, but be honest.

Ask how your child is feeling. Kids who are around a loved one who has dementia may sometimes feel sad, confused, rejected, scared, angry, or embarrassed. Try to address any emotions your child may be feeling.

Look for signs that your child may be upset. Kids don’t often express their emotions through verbal communication. They may instead start acting out at school or complaining of minor physical ailments. If the person who has Alzheimer’s lives in your home, your child may start spending more time away from home or be hesitant to invite friends over. If you notice any of these behaviors, gently point them out and let your child know you’re open to hearing and responding to any of his or her concerns.

Teach your child how to interact with the person who has Alzheimer’s. Kids learn by example, so make sure you’re practicing good Alzheimer’s communications skills . Also, include your child in activities in which the person with dementia can also participate.

Schedule alone time with your child. Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s can be time consuming. Even so, children sometimes need to feel like they have your undivided attention. So make sure your child is getting enough one-on-one time with you.

Get help. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with all of life’s demands while raising a family and being a full-time Alzheimer’s caregiver, get help from a Kansas City Allzheimer’s home care agency .

When Your Siblings Refuse to Help with Alzheimer’s Caregiving

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 13:00:00 GMT

I have five siblings. And aside from normal childhood squabbles, we’ve always gotten along. But there was still some tension around who would do what when my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. My dad would send out a list of things he needed help with, and we’d all wait for someone else to sign up to do them. Or try to choose the easiest tasks before someone else got them.

Even though we all chipped in, the tasks were in no way divided equally. Here are some of the reasons why:

If you’re struggling to get your siblings to help take care of a parent who has dementia, here are some things I learned that may help:

Choosing an Alzheimer’s Caregiver in Kansas City

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Being a caregiver for someone who has Alzheimer’s is a tough job. I had five siblings to help with my mom, and we still needed to hire a Kansas City agency that provided Alzheimer’s home care services. So don’t feel bad if you can’t do it all. You’re not alone.

Once you’ve made the decision to stop trying to provide 24-hour senior care by yourself, you’ll need to choose a Kansas City agency that specializes in home care for seniors with dementia. Here are some tips that may help:

Determine your needs. Do you need an agency that provides 24-hour Alzheimer’s care, or is someone home during the daytime that can fill in? Do you need someone to help with bathing, dressing, and grooming? Meal preparation? Housekeeping? Transportation?

Ask for referrals. Ask Kansas City friends or relatives who have cared for someone with Alzheimer’s (and had to get dementia home care services) who they hired. Ask what they liked about the agency they used and what they didn’t like. If you don’t know enough people with Alzheimer’s experience to get a few referrals, ask your doctor for recommendations. Also ask if he or she has received any feedback (good or bad) on any of the recommended Alzheimer’s home care agencies.

Conduct interviews. When scheduling the interviews, make sure the agencies you’re considering have experience in providing dementia home care. Don’t waste time on any that don’t.

During each interview, ask if the agency is licensed, bonded and insured; if they provide the services you’ve determined you need; if additional services are included (e.g., mental stimulation activities, cognitive awareness games, physical activities, music therapy ); if they provide 24-hour care (Even if you don’t need it now, you may later.); if caregivers will be consistent the majority of the time; and how the agency will ensure your loved one is receiving quality care.

Take notes during the interviews so you’ll remember the responses to your questions.

Make your choice. Once you’ve conducted your interviews, you should have a good idea which Kansas City home care agency will best fit your (and your loved one’s) needs. So give them a call, and get started.

Monitor care provided. You need to have some method of monitoring the care your loved one is getting. Even though the agency should be checking on its employees or contractors, do some drop-in visits to see if your loved one is clean and groomed and what the caregiver is doing when you arrive. If you don’t like what you see, call the agency.

Managing Sleep Problems in Someone with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 13:00:00 GMT

If you’re caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia, you may have noticed a change in his or her sleep patterns. For example, my mom often slept a lot during the day, then was awake half the night. Other people with Alzheimer’s might wake up on and off throughout the night. Some often become confused or agitated in the late afternoon (a phenomenon known as “sundowning”).

These sleep problems can also keep you up at night, either trying to coax your loved one back to bed or worrying about the very real possibility that he or she will go wandering around Kansas City.

So, what can you do? Here are some tips:

Stick to a routine. Keep a regular schedule for meals, bedtime, and getting up in the morning.

Try to limit daytime sleeping. Plan activities that can keep your loved one engaged. Discourage napping, especially later in the day.

Encourage exercise. Physical activity fosters better nighttime sleep. But keep it to a minimum within four hours of bedtime.

Avoid caffeine and other stimulants. Limit coffee and any type of screen exposure (e.g., television, computer) to early in the day.

Ask about pain. It’s tough to sleep if you’re in pain, so make sure you’re giving prescribed pain medications regularly, as needed.

Provide a cozy sleeping area. Make sure the room is set at a comfortable temperature. Provide extra blankets in case it cools down at night. Put nightlights in the hallway and bathroom.

Review medications with your Kansas City physician. Make sure your loved one isn’t taking stimulants too close to bedtime.

If you need help maintaining a routine, fitting in daily activities, or ensuring your loved one gets regular exercise, enlist the help of a Kansas City Alzheimer’s home care provider .

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Summer Fun in Kansas City for People with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 28 May 2018 13:00:00 GMT

It’s almost summer in Kansas City! The days are getting longer. It’s getting warmer. And you’re longing to go outside and soak up some sunshine or enjoy the warm night air.

If you’re caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you may be wondering how they can also enjoy summer in Kansas City. Here are some activities you can try:

Have a barbecue. You’re in Kansas City!!! Invite some family members over and throw something on the grill! Or order carry out from your favorite barbecue restaurant. Ask everyone to bring a dish to share so you don’t have to spend the day cooking. Make sure you find a shady spot for the person who has Alzheimer’s and help him or her apply sunscreen.

Plan a family reunion. Rent a shelter at a Kansas City Park so your family will have some privacy. If you’re inviting people who haven’t seen the person with Alzheimer’s for some time, make sure you give them an update on your loved one’s condition. Sing some songs. Play some games. Share old pictures. Do whatever your family used to do when you all got together.

Go to a show. Outdoor shows like those at Starlight , Theatre in the Park or the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival are a great way to enjoy a warm summer evening in Kansas City. My mom, who had Alzheimer’s, loved shows and didn’t seem to mind the crowds. But we always made sure she had a seat where she wasn’t surrounded by people. It might be best to arrive close to showtime when people are mostly settled in. Try to get a seat on the aisle or anywhere that your loved one won’t feel boxed in.

Do an art walk. If the person with dementia enjoys art, why not do a local art walk? The Kansas City Crossroads Arts District has an art walk every first Friday. The Englewood Station Arts District has their art walk every third Friday. Depending on which one you go to, there may be artist demonstrations, music or other entertainment, and even some food trucks.

Have lunch on the Plaza. Go during the week, and ask for an outdoor table in the shade so there will be less noise,

Watch the fireworks. You’ll want to be conscious of how sensitive your loved one is to noise, but there’s no reason someone with dementia can’t enjoy a Kansas City fireworks display. To avoid the crowds and lessen the noise, watch from your own back yard if there are good displays in your neighborhood. If not, drive to a local fireworks display and watch the show from your car.

Get some help. If you’re spending so much time trying to help your loved one who has Alzheimer’s with routine daily activities that you don’t have the time or energy to enjoy the Kansas City summer, get help from a Kansas City home health agency that specializes in working with people who have Alzheimer’s.

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Home Safety & Alzheimer’s

Mon, 14 May 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Although all seniors need to take certain safety measures, people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia can pose some additional safety issues. Here are some things you can do to improve the safety of your Kansas City home for yourself, or as the caregiver a loved one who has Alzheimer’s:

Alzheimer’s-specific safety measures:

General safety measures:

Although Alzheimer’s disease comes with it’s own safety risks, a few minor changes to your home can go a long way toward keeping you or your loved one safe.

Six Tips for Living with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 07 May 2018 13:00:00 GMT

If you live alone in your Kansas City home and have just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you may be wondering what to do next. Here are some strategies that will help you maintain some independence and quality of life:

Do your homework. Find out what Kansas City Alzheimer’s resources are available so you’ll know where to go for health care, educational resources, emotional support, and other needs.

Find transportation. Once you’ve been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it’s probably not safe for you to continue driving. So you’re going to need to enlist help. If you have friends or relatives nearby, see if they can help drive you to places you need to go or pick things up for you. You may also be able to use Uber or Lyft for a time, but ask for your doctor’s opinion before booking any rides.

Stay engaged. You may want to let the people who are closest to you know about your illness, so they won’t be alarmed when you become forgetful. But continue to participate in activities you enjoy to the best of your abilities. Staying engaged may help slow the progression of your disease, and will help you live a more fulfilling life.

Invest in technology. There are a lot of technological devices available at Kansas City discount or technology stores that can help you with things like communication, appointment or medication reminders, wandering, and other activities that may become more difficult with time.

Sign a living will and a healthcare power of attorney. A living will lets doctors know what type of health care you do or do not want if you’re unable to make that decision at the time of care. A healthcare power of attorney gives someone you trust permission to make healthcare decisions for you. Ask your Kansas City Alzheimer’s caregiver for the appropriate paperwork.

Enlist help. Staying home by yourself isn’t going to be a long-term option unless you have a full-time caregiver. If not, you can always enlist the help of a Kansas City home care agency that provides both personal care and dementia care services.

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Helpful Apps for People with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Technology is an invaluable tool if you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. And touch screen devices (e.g., an iPad) make technology easy for people with Alzheimer’s to use. If you don’t own one, you can pick one up at most Kansas City discount, department, or electronics stores.

Apps that you can download to these devices (many of which are free) can be used to improve cognition and memory, schedule reminders, play games, listen to music, watch videos, and more.

Here are some popular apps for people with Alzheimer’s:

Lumosity : Provides cognitive training games that focus on speed, memory, attention, flexibility, problem solving, language, and math. Cost: Free

Mind Mate: Offers games to challenge people with Alzheimer’s, reminders, music, television, and more. Cost: Free

GPS Tracker. There are tons of GPS tracking apps currently on the market that can help you find a loved one who might wander. Some examples include GPS SmartSole , MindMe , and Yepzon . Cost: Varies

Medisafe : A simple smartphone app that includes a virtual pillbox to let you see what you’ve taken and what’s due next, medication reminders, motivational progress reports, daily tips, and relevant discount prescription offers. Cost: Free

CareZone: A simple app that helps you manage your healthcare (or someone else’s if you’re a caregiver). You can use it to generate a medication list, schedule reminders, keep track of appointments, organize important contacts, share access to information, and more. Cost: Free

YouTube : This popular app can be used to watch entertaining videos, listen to music, or play games. Cost: Free

Pandora : If you (or your loved one) just want to listen to music, you can find artists of any genre on the Pandora app. Cost: Free

If you need additional help with mental awareness stimulation activities, cognitive games, medication management, or engaging your loved one in activities, contact a Kansas City home care provider .

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Kansas City Alzheimer’s Resources

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 13:00:00 GMT

When my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we had no idea where to go for help in Kansas City. It took some research, but we discovered there were a lot of places we could turn to for educational materials, health care, Alzheimer’s home care, and more. Here are some of the resources we uncovered:

Health care. The University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center has a memory care clinic where you, or your loved one, can get an initial diagnosis and continuing medical care. Call 913-588-0970 for an appointment.

Educational resources. The Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter has a comprehensive library of Alzheimer’s resources to help you learn what to expect and how to best deal with it.

Home care. It doesn’t take long for some people with dementia to stop bathing and/or brushing their teeth. And they may not be real cooperative if you try to help or do it for them. A good Kansas City home care agency, such as Thoughtful Care , can not only provide assistance with hygiene and bathing, but also help with grooming, meal preparation, house cleaning, and more.

Support groups. The emotional toll Alzheimer’s can take on the person who is ill, or on a caregiver, can be overwhelming. So it’s important to get support. The Alzheimer’s Association has compiled a list of Kansas City area support groups for caregivers and for those who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Advance registration is required.

24/7 Helpline. If you have a question about Alzheimer’s that requires an immediate response, you can call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. For potentially life-threatening emergencies, call 911 instead .

Clinical trials. There’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s. That’s why researchers at The University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center frequently conduct clinical trials in their quest to find a cure. A clinical trial can give you, or your loved one who has dementia, an opportunity to try Alzheimer’s medications that aren’t yet on the market.

Respite. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, or other form of dementia, can be exhausting. So it’s essential to find someone to provide respite care , so you can relax and rejuvenate. Thoughtful Care , Kansas City’s Alzheimer’s and dementia home care provider, offers respite services that include interactive activities for your loved one that are designed to promote cognitive function and physical fitness.

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Kansas City Spring Activities for People with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Spring is my favorite time of year in Kansas City. The trees are blossoming. The flowers are blooming. The air is beginning to warm. And I’m itching to go outside!

If you’re caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia, getting outside to enjoy the spring weather may seem next to impossible. But there are actually quite a few spring activities in Kansas City the two of you can share. Here are some suggestions.

Tip: If you don’t have time to plan all of these activities, maybe your home care provider can help:

Have lunch on the Plaza. Having lunch on an outdoor patio on the Plaza has always been one of my favorite things to do in the spring. And outdoor patios tend to be quieter than eating indoors, which is good for people who have dementia. It might also be a good idea to plan a late lunch so you’ll miss the mid-day crowd.

Take a walk in the park. Loose Park is one of my favorite places to walk in the spring, but there are tons of parks in and around Kansas City where you can go for a scenic walk. You probably already have a favorite Kansas City park, but if not, here’s a link to the Johnson County Parks. This link will take you to the Kansas City parks.

Plan a picnic. If you feel like it would be difficult to take your loved one who has Alzheimer’s on a picnic in a Kansas City Park, plan one in your own back yard. Even when my mom was in the later stages of Alzheimer’s, she still seemed to enjoy family gatherings. So invite some family members over and ask them all to bring a dish so you don’t have to do all the cooking.

Go for a drive. Admiring nature was another thing my mom still enjoyed when she had Alzheimer’s. So try taking your loved one on a scenic drive to see the trees blossoming. Blue River Road was always one of my favorite spring drives. If you don’t have a favorite, any tree-lined roads in your neighborhood should be lovely in the spring.

Visit a Botanical Garden. Nothing says spring like seeing flowers in full bloom. And a botanical garden will allow you to take a leisurely stroll past thousands of flowers (and maybe even some wildlife) in a peaceful setting. Powell Gardens and the Overland Park Arboretum are two Kansas City-area botanical gardens.

Do a tour of fountains. Kansas City is the City of Fountains! Find out which Kansas City fountains are closest to you, then map out a plan to take a driving tour.

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5 Tips for Living with Someone with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Everything suddenly changes when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Social interactions become more difficult. Planning a simple Kansas City outing becomes a chore. And there are new safety issues to be dealt with.

Here are some tips that can help if you find yourself living with someone who has Alzheimer’s (or other form of dementia):

Learn to communicate. People who have Alzheimer’s can’t communicate as effectively as they did in the past. For example, they may have a difficult time answering questions about short-term events. But there are still ways you can interact meaningfully with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s. Examples include talking about that new Kansas City restaurant you just tried, keeping sentences short and simple, and singing.

Safeguard your home. Wandering can be a big concern for people who have Alzheimer’s, so you’ll want to take prevention measures . These might include installing locks up high, maintaining a routine, adding alarms, and hiding the car keys. Other safety measures might include removing clutter, tossing cigarettes and lighters, ensuring adequate lighting, locking up guns and medications, and creating wheelchair pathways.

Engage the person in activities. Staying socially engaged is important for people who have Alzheimer’s; but that can be difficult because they can’t participate in the same types of activities they may have enjoyed in the past. Try things like listening to music, reading together, simple craft activities, jigsaw puzzles, or looking at old photos.

Learn to manage aggression . Aggression is common in people with Alzheimer’s; but keep in mind it often stems from frustration, confusion, too much stimulation, or unmet needs. To manage aggression effectively , speak calmly and listen to what your loved one is saying. You can also try moving to a quiet location, asking about pain, and changing the subject.

Find respite. Caregivers need a break once in a while. Enlist the help of an organization that provides respite care services or a Kansas City adult day care facility . Respite services are not only good for you, as a caregiver; interacting with others can also be good for your loved one who has Alzheimer’s.

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Why its Important to Find Respite When Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia is more than a full-time job. It’s 24 hours a day, every day of the week. That’s not a pace anyone can maintain for long.

As a Kansas City caregiver, you may feel guilty wanting to occasionally get away. But here’s why you shouldn’t. Alzheimer’s Disease is stressful not only for the person who has it, but for the entire family. My mom had Alzheimer’s, so I know. The disease seemed to be constantly evolving, and it was difficult to figure out how to keep up the pace from one day to the next. It was tough enough with six of us. I can’t even imagine what it would have been like to go through all that by myself.

And let’s face it. You’re not going to be any good to your loved one in the long run if you’re living in a constant state of stress or you becoming physically ill from working yourself too hard.

All that aside, what about your life? After all you’ve been through, don’t you deserve to take some time off for yourself? Wouldn’t it be nice to just:

If you’re not as lucky as I was to have siblings who can give you a break when you need one, you’ll have to look elsewhere for respite care. Here are some potential resources:

If you’re still hesitant to take time off from caregiving because you can’t shake that sense of guilt, consider this. Having someone provide respite care services is not only good for you, as a caregiver, but can also be good for your loved one who has dementia. It can give him (or her) a chance to interact with other people and participate in new activities.

Alzheimer’s Day Care in Kansas City and Leawood

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re in a situation where you still have to go to work every day, or you just need some part-time respite, you may decide you’d like some assistance with your role as caring for a person who has Alzheimer’s (or other form of dementia). Adult day care services from Thoughtful Care specialize in caring for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

And you may not be the only one who benefits. Caregivers from Thoughtful Care provide social interaction, and can offer a variety of activities. Both of which can be good for people who have Alzheimer’s. All right in the home.

So, where do you begin finding adult day care in Kansas City or Leawood? Fill out this form and someone will get back to you right away. Thoughtful Care is a locally owned home health provider.

Also, keep in mind that resistance can be pretty common at first, but should get better as your loved one becomes acclimated to the day care provider or consider full time home care .

8 Winter Safety Tips for Kansas City Residents with Alzheimer’s

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 17:26:00 GMT

Kansas City winters can be really cold. Add in some snow and ice, and you’ve got potentially dangerous new obstacles for someone who has Alzheimer’s. As a caregiver, you’ll want to do all you can to ensure you’re loved one with dementia stays safe. Here are some winter safety tips:

6 New Year’s Resolutions for Kansas City Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 13:00:00 GMT

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions this year? If you’re living in Kansas City and caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, we’ve developed a potential list for you that may make your life a little easier. Here are some ideas: Improve your communication skills. It can be difficult to communicate with someone who […] The post 6 New Year’s Resolutions for Kansas City Alzheimer’s Caregivers appeared first on Thoughtful Care.

Technology and Alzheimer’s: Products that Can Help

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 13:00:00 GMT

Over the past several years, there have been vast improvements in technology that can help people who have Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia (and their caregivers) lead better lives. And many of these items are quite simple to use.

Alzheimer’s Technology You Can Buy in Kansas City

Here are some examples of some helpful items you can buy in Kansas City department or technology stores:

What to Do About Alzheimer’s and Aggression

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 13:00:00 GMT

At some point, many people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia become agitated or aggressive. Some may scream and/or curse; others become physically violent. There are a number of reasons why this happens:

Here are some things you can do as a caregiver to help prevent aggressive behavior:

If you’ve done all you can to prevent aggressive behavior in a loved one who has Alzheimer’s and he still becomes angry or violent, here are some things you can do to diffuse the situation:

When dealing with aggressive behavior and Alzheimer’s, remember that safety comes first. If at any time you feel like you or your loved one is in danger, call 911.

Celebrating the Holidays with Someone Who Has Alzheimer’s

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 13:00:00 GMT

The holiday season can be difficult even in the best of times. For people who have Alzheimer’s, and for their caregivers, it can be even more trying.

There’s a lot of hustle and bustle during the Kansas City holiday season, and all the additional activity can disrupt routine and further agitate someone who has Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia.

The holidays can also be rough on caregivers. They bring on feelings of nostalgia, which can sometimes lead to loneliness or depression.

But a little advance planning can help you and your loved one with Alzheimer’s enjoy the holiday season together. Here are some tips:

Keep gatherings small. Consider whether or not the entire extended family really needs to be included in all gatherings. If it’s important to you to have a large crowd, try to break the rooms up into smaller groups so the commotion won’t be so overwhelming.

Designate a quiet room. Keep one space available where the person who has Alzheimer’s can rest quietly if he or she becomes agitated. If you need to use the room, try turning on some soothing music.

Update guests in advance about the person’s current condition. Letting guests know what to expect can help prevent awkward situations. You might also consider sharing some tips for communicating with someone who has Alzheimer’s and letting guests know what not to say .

Allow the person who has Alzheimer’s to help with preparations, if appropriate. My mom, who had Alzheimer’s, decided to chip in and help prepare Thanksgiving dinner one year. She thought she was on vacation in another city and was wondering why we had to cook our own meals, but it was nice having her help with dinner.

Enlist help. Ask friends or family members to help with preparations for holiday gatherings, or to host (as long as the person who has Alzheimer’s will still be in familiar surroundings). Ideally, you’ll want to stay in Kansas City (or Independence, or Overland Park, or whatever Kansas City area city is familiar to the person who has Alzheimer’s).

Maintain traditions. People who have Alzheimer’s disease may have memories of past holidays and take comfort in familiar traditions. He or she may want to help you trim the tree or bake and decorate the cookies. This will also help you to prepare the person for the upcoming celebration. We always got together on Christmas Eve and I made candy while my sisters stuffed the stockings. Mom seemed to enjoy sitting in the kitchen with us, and happily ate the buckeye I handed to her. And we enjoyed sharing the afternoon with her.

Give appropriate gifts. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that people with early-stage Alzheimer’s be given gifts to enhance independence and activity, such as event tickets or photo albums. For people with middle-stage Alzheimer’s, things with a focus on the familiar are more appropriate, such as picture books, taped religious services, or music. Those with late-stage Alzheimer’s might enjoy things like memory books, warm clothing, stuffed animals, or body lotions.

Activities for People with Alzheimer’s

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 13:00:00 GMT

It’s important for people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia to stay as engaged and as social as possible. And being able to join in and do some of the things they once loved can improve their quality of life.

As a caregiver, you may be having a hard time finding activities that will include your loved one who has Alzheimer’s. Here are some things you can try:

Although difficulty with short-term recall can somewhat limit the ability of people with Alzheimer’s to take part in certain activites, there’s no reason they can’t participate in others. And keeping them included can greatly improve their quality of life.

Tim Tholen featured on Fox Radio Local Business Spotlight

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 21:26:00 GMT

Listen to Thoughtful Care’s CEO, Tim Tholen, featured on the October 23rd edition of Fox Radio’s Local Business Spotlight. We appreciate the coverage from Fox, and everyone’s support over the years here across Kansas City! Contact us today for any private care questions or needs. We’re looking forward to improving the quality of life for you and your family.

Keeping a Loved One with Alzheimer’s at Home

Sat, 21 Oct 2017 01:26:00 GMT

Not everyone who has Alzheimer’s will ultimately need nursing home care. My mom had Alzheimer’s, and we were able to keep her at home for the duration of her illness.

If you’re caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia and would like to continue providing care at home, here are some tips.

Take safety measures. For example, remove clutter, throw away cigarettes and lighters, ensure adequate lighting, lock up guns and medications, and create wheelchair pathways.

Enlist help. People with Alzheimer’s need help with everyday things like bathing, dressing, shaving, and brushing their teeth. If you don’t have family members who are there all the time to assist you, you may want to think about home care services . Home care providers can also help with things like cognitive stimulation, meal preparation and feeding, transportation, and light household cleaning.

Learn to communicate. Interacting with someone with Alzheimer’s can be difficult. It’s important to be patient and not ask questions that require short-term memory to answer. There are also some things you shouldn’t say . For example, you wouldn’t want to remind your mom that your dad or your grandmother died, no matter how long ago it was.

Provide activities. It’s important for people with Alzheimer’s to stay as socially engaged as possible. So you’ll want to come up with activities where he or she can be included. Some examples include listening to music, looking at old photographs, or doing crafts.

Control wandering. You’ll need to secure your home so you won’t find your mom taking a walk—or even worse—a drive around Kansas City. Installing locks up high and alarms on exits can help.

Serve nutritious meals . A balanced diet can decrease behavioral symptoms in people with Alzheimers, as well as keep the body healthy. Serve lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, and low-fat dairy products.

Get respite. You can’t take care of someone else if you’re not taking care of yourself. And part of that is taking a break once in awhile. If you don’t have a friend or family member who can cover for you when you need to get away, get respite care from home care providers .

Not everyone who has Alzheimer’s will require nursing home care. These tips can help you keep your loved one at home.

It’s Time for Annual Flu Shots

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 22:51:00 GMT

Flu season begins in early October, so it’s time for yearly flu shots. If you’re caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia, don’t forget he or she will need a shot, as well.

Why Get Vaccinated?

Believe it or not, people still die from the flu, especially those who are age 65 and over. And as a caregiver, you’re putting both you and your loved one at risk if you don’t get vaccinated yourself.

Why You Can’t Get Sick From a Flu Shot

It’s hard to believe this myth still exists after all these years, but it seems like everyone has a story about how they got a flu shot, then got the flu the next day. It doesn’t work that way. First of all, you can’t get sick from a flu shot because it’s made from a virus that’s been “inactivated,” which means it can’t transmit infection.

Secondly, it takes a few days for flu symptoms to start after you’ve caught the virus. So if you get the flu the day after your shot, you already had it before you were vaccinated. Also, it can take up two two weeks for the flu vaccine to become effective. So if you get the flu within two weeks of getting your flu shot, you weren’t yet fully protected. So you would have gotten sick without the shot.

Is it Too Early in the Season (or Too Late) for a Flu Shot?

If you’re thinking it may be a bit early for flu shots, you might be surprised. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says it’s okay to get a flu shot as soon as the vaccine comes out. It’s best to get it by the end of October. But flu season last throughout most of the winter, so if you accidentally miss the October deadline, go ahead and get one anyway.

Call Your Doctor Today

Your doctor’s office is a good place to get your flu shot. But if you’re in a rush, there are lots of places in the Kansas City area (e.g., Walgreen’s, CVS) where you can just drop in and get one.

What to Do if You’re Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s

Sat, 09 Sep 2017 02:30:00 GMT

Alzheimer’s disease is a life-changing illness. So if you, or a loved one, have been recently diagnosed, you’re probably wondering what to do next. Here are some idea that can help move you in the right direction.

Get information. Knowing what you’re up against can go a long way toward helping you manage your disease. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Heart of America Chapter is a good place to find accurate information you can use to read up on Alzheimer’s.

Get regular medical care. See your doctor regularly, and ask for a referral to a memory clinic (there are clinics in Kansas City and in Overland Park).

Gather support. Take note of the people you already have in your life who will be willing to help as your disease progresses. If you’re not sure, ask. Support groups can also be helpful, as many people find comfort in talking to others who can relate to what they’re going through. Fortunately, there are lots of Alzheimer’s support groups in the Kansas City area. Also, you’ll want to develop a relationship with a home health agency that can help you later with things like personal care (e.g., bathing), meal preparation, house cleaning, transportation, and more.

Update your living will. If you don’t have a living will, the time to sign one is now. It will let healthcare workers know what type of medical care you want (or don’t want) in the event you should become unable to make decisions for yourself. You’ll also want to sign a healthcare power of attorney, which will allow you to choose someone now to make healthcare decisions for you if you become unable. Your doctor should be able to help you obtain the necessary paperwork for both documents.

Do some financial planning. A financial power of attorney is also a good idea. It’s used to assign someone to handle your finances if you become unable. You may also want to go ahead and update your will. And you’ll want to consider ways to cover your healthcare costs .

Think about safety. Have a home care agency that specializes in Alzheimer’s conduct a safety check on your home. And read the National Institute on Aging’s home safety guide for people with Alzheimer’s.

Stay healthy. A healthy diet has been shown to improve brain health; and scientists believe aerobic exercise may reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Adjust your work hours. If you’re beginning to have trouble doing your job, see if you can reduce your work hours or switch to a position that isn’t so demanding. You might also want to ask your human resources department about family medical leave or disability benefits. And check with your local Social Security office about applying for Social Security Disability.

Consider a clinical trial. The University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center is currently enrolling people in research studies with the hope of finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. These clinical trials may offer treatment methods that are not yet available to others.

Keep having fun. Continue to do the things you enjoy for as long as you’re able.

Although Alzheimer’s disease will certainly change your life, a little preparation will help things go more smoothly.

Recognizing and Reporting Elder Abuse in Kansas City

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 00:27:00 GMT

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year, hundreds of thousands of U.S. adults who are over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or taken advantage of financially. Many are abused in their own homes; others are abused while living with family members or in residential facilities. The abuse often goes unreported because the person may feel ashamed, fear backlash from reporting the abuse, or just be unable to communicate effectively due to Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia.

Here’s where you can help. Watch for warning signs if you know someone who could be a potential target. While watching for clues, keep in mind that elder abuse can go beyond the physical. It can also include emotional abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, financial abuse, or abandonment.

Here are some possible warning signs of elder abuse or neglect:

Of course, not everyone will exhibit all of these warning signs. But if you notice any of them and believe you’re seeing indications of possible elder abuse, it’s important to report the abuse as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to the victim’s health or well-being.

Here are the phone numbers for Kansas:

Here’s the number for Missouri:

Tim Tholen, President of Thoughtful Healthcare, on local Fox 4 news channel

Sat, 29 Jul 2017 20:45:00 GMT

Tim Tholen, President of Thoughtful Healthcare, explains how to talk to seniors about the risks associated with driving on local Fox 4 news channel. We appreciate the coverage from Fox, and everyone’s support over the years here across Kansas City! Contact us today for any private care questions or needs. We’re looking forward to improving the quality of life for you and your family.

The Benefits of Music Therapy on People with Alzheimer’s

Sat, 29 Jul 2017 20:18:00 GMT

My mom could play just about any instrument she laid her hands on, and she had a beautiful singing voice. She majored in music in college. So music was very important to her.

When she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we thought that part of her life was over. Until we hired a music therapist. The therapist would sing with her (I was amazed that Mom could remember the words to so many old songs!). Mom sometimes even played the piano. The music therapist also brought her a small drum she could set on a table and play. She loved that drum.

Music is one of the things that resonates with most people. So even if your loved one who has dementia didn’t major in music as my mom did, he or she may benefit from music therapy.

Music therapy for people with Alzheimer’s has been known to:

Whether your loved one is partial to Kansas City jazz, rock, pop, or country, a good music therapist can use music to help boost brain activity and improve quality of life.

Keeping an updated medication list for your aging parent

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 22:50:00 GMT

It seems like every time you take your elderly parent to a doctor’s visit, the office wants a new medication list. That can be frustrating, but to be fair, there are some good reasons why they keep asking.

Why Medication Lists Are Important for Seniors

Here are just a few of the reasons why people who are elderly need up-to-date medication lists:

Starting and Keeping Your List

Different people use different methods of recording their parents’ medication lists. Some do it the old-fashioned way by just putting pen to paper. Others use computer spreadsheets. And others prefer apps. Use whatever method will be easiest for you to keep updated.

Medications can be dangerous if not properly managed. But keeping an updated medication list can keep your parent safe.

7 Things Not to Say to Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 21:16:00 GMT

When providing dementia care, it’s hard to know what to say to the person who has Alzheimer’s (or other form of dementia). So unfortunately, it’s pretty easy to become tongue tied and say the wrong thing. And the last thing you want to do as a caregiver is cause your loved one undue stress. But if you follow these guidelines for what not to say, you’ll be on much safer ground when talking to someone with Alzheimer’s:

Sometimes it takes a bit of creativity to avoid saying something that might be hurtful to someone who has Alzheimer’s. And if you do slip up and use one of these phrases, it’s not the end of the world. Just quickly change the subject.

9 Things to Do When a Senior Starts to Wander

Wed, 31 May 2017 01:14:00 GMT

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, around 60% of all people with Alzheimer’s or dementia will wander. There are a number of reasons why. The person might be looking for something (or someone), get lost while walking, be trying to make his or her way home (while already at home), or just be bored.

We were fortunate that my mom, who had Alzheimer’s, didn’t wander. She always was a bit of a homebody, but that’s still no guarantee. Wandering can be dangerous, and therefore take a toll on your family (as if you don’t have enough to deal with). So it’s important to be vigilant about making sure someone with dementia doesn’t leave the house alone.

If you’re providing elder care at home, here are some things you can do to keep your wandering loved one from taking an unscheduled walking tour of Kansas City or Overland Park:

Care of the elderly can be tricky, especially when Alzheimer’s or dementia is involved. Some added home security measures and staving off boredom can be keys to keeping a senior from wandering.

7 Tips for Interacting with a Loved One Who Has Alzheimer’s

Tue, 16 May 2017 20:50:00 GMT

By the time I realized there was something really wrong with my mom’s memory, I had already had my last “real” conversation with her. It happened that fast. And suddenly, I no longer had any idea how to talk to her. If I asked her a question (which I frequently did without thinking), she wouldn’t know the answer and would get pretty agitated. Then I would feel like a heel.

But you can learn from my mistakes and have meaningful conversations with your loved one who has Alzheimer’s or dementia. Just prepare for them to be mostly one-sided.

Here are some caregiver tips for interacting with someone for whom you’re providing dementia care :

Contact Us Today!

Recognizing the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Tue, 29 Nov 2016 07:30:00 GMT

Recognizing the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

If you have an elderly loved one who lives at home alone, it’s important to understand the signs of Alzheimer’s Disease so he or she can get the appropriate help and treatment. Thoughtful Care provides full-service Alzheimer’s and dementia care to seniors across the Kansas City community. If any of the below symptoms are present, we encourage you to schedule a free in-home consultation with our trained caregiver staff.

When to Seek In-Home Senior Care in Kansas City

Thu, 10 Nov 2016 18:16:00 GMT

As the holidays draw near, time spent with family becomes more frequent. This extra time is often when the daily struggles of our elderly loved ones become more apparent. How do you know when it’s time to seek in-home care for an aging Kansas City senior? Look for these signs:

Lack of Mobility

If your elderly loved one needs assistance moving around the house or driving to and from the grocery store, doctor appointments or family events, it might be time to seek a Kansas City caregiver. Our trusted professionals can help with everything from senior bath time and grooming to transportation and running errands.

Inability to Prepare Healthy Meals

Elderly adults will often lose the ability (and desire) to cook healthy meals for themselves, resulting in small portions or highly processed foods. An in-home senior caregiver can assist with grocery shopping, meal planning and meal preparation.

Forgetfulness

As memory loss and other signs of dementia begin to show, it’s important to avoid isolation for the safety of elderly individuals. Our caregivers have up to 25 years of dementia and Alzheimer’s home care experience. We know the stresses of caring at home for your loved one can be immense and disruptive for families—a caregiver can give peace-of-mind when you’re unable to provide care yourselves.

Loneliness

Caregivers can provide more than assistance with daily health endeavors, they can be a partner on outdoor walks, a friendly opponent in a chess game or a companion at movies. Our reliable caregiving staff will treat your loved one like a member of their own families.

Desired Independence

With more and more Kansas City seniors choosing to “age in place,” in-home caregivers allow aging individuals the luxury and independence of remaining in the comfort of their own homes rather than moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. Caregivers can provide as much or as little service as needed. Services will be personalized to your family’s specific requirements.

In-Home Senior Care in Kansas City

Give your family the gift of in-home senior care this holiday season. Thoughtful Care provides 24-hour senior care services throughout the Kansas City metro area, including Kansas City, Leawood, Olathe, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Lenexa, Shawnee, Belton, Liberty and more. Schedule a free in-home consultation to get started.

3 Heart-Healthy Fall Recipes for Seniors

Tue, 18 Oct 2016 08:50:00 GMT

3 Heart-Healthy Fall Recipes for Seniors

Fall is in full swing and we’re all craving warm, hearty foods. Treat your favorite Kansas City senior to a fall meal that’s both seasonal and heart-healthy. Here are three of our favorite recipes:

5 Thought-Provoking Activities for Seniors with Dementia

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 08:46:00 GMT

When memory begins to fade, it’s important to keep seniors mentally stimulated and connected to life through thought-provoking activities. Consider things that they previously enjoyed, or those that connect them to your family. Here are five ideas to get you started: Get crafty: Art projects, like painting, drawing, photography or sewing, will stimulate the imagination […] The post 5 Thought-Provoking Activities for Seniors with Dementia appeared first on Thoughtful Care.

Kansas City-based Thoughtful Care Awarded A+ Rating by HCSB

Thu, 18 Aug 2016 20:04:00 GMT

We are proud to share that the Home Care Standards Bureau (HCSB), a trusted independent organization that evaluates senior home care agencies across the U.S., awarded Thoughtful Care with an A+ rating.

A press release from HCSB stated:

“Thoughtful Care Inc. is among a distinguished and limited national group of agencies to be recognized with an A+ rating from HCSB…These standards include extensive background checks and annual training for all caregivers.”

Read the full press release from HCSB here .

Safe-proofing a Home for Seniors

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 03:05:00 GMT

Safe-proofing a Home for Seniors

With a growing number of seniors remaining in their homes until later in life, there is a strong need to adjust certain household features. Reduce the risk of injury and provide your aging loved one with a safe and comfortable home by following these four simple steps:

Thoughtful Care

Does Medicare Pay for Respite Care services?

Understanding Respite Care

Medicare Overview

Does Medicare Cover Respite Care?

Alternative Funding Options

Navigating The Cost Of Respite Care ﻿

REspite Care In Kansas City

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises?

Understanding the Issue

The Benefits of Balance Exercises

Physical Benefits

Cognitive Benefits

Improved Quality of Life ﻿

Types of Balance Exercises

Static Balance Exercises

Dynamic Balance Exercises

Tai Chi and Yoga

Addressing Concerns and Safety

Getting Started

Get The Care You Deserve

What is a Geriatric Nursing Assistant and what Services do they Provide?

Who Are Geriatric Nursing Assistants (GNAs)?

Why Are GNAs Important in Senior Care?

Core Services Provided by GNAs

GNAs vs. Other Caregivers

Benefits of Choosing Thoughtful Care for GNA Services

Experience the Thoughtful Care Difference

How Many Hours can a Caregiver Work in a Day?

The Concern: Balancing Caregiver Hours

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Factors Influencing Caregiver Work Hours

Caregiver Burnout: Why It Matters

Ideal Work Hours for Caregivers

Compassionate Care, Tailored to Your Needs

Can Someone With Dementia Sign Legal Documents?

Understanding Dementia and its Implications

Capacity to Sign Legal Documents

Challenges and Risks

Risk of Legal Challenges

Limited Understanding of Implications

Influence and Manipulation

Emotional Impact

Get the Help You Need

Can You Visit a Dementia Patient Too Much?

The Importance of Social Interaction

Benefits of Regular Visits FOR Dementia Patients

Balancing Visits with Individual Needs

Signs of Overstimulation or Fatigue

Quality vs. Quantity ﻿

Providing the Best Care for Dementia Patients

Unlocking the Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Cognitive Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Physical Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Social Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Cognitive Training and Prevention of Age-Related Conditions

Tips For Starting Seniors On Video Games

Tackle cognitive training together

The Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Dementia Patients in the Summer

Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Dementia Patients

Physical Benefits

Cognitive Benefits

Emotional Benefits

Preparing for Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Activity Ideas for Dementia Patients & Their Benefits

Nature Walks and Scenic Drives

Gardening and Horticultural Therapy

Outdoor Picnics and Barbecues

Animal Therapy or Visiting Petting Zoos

Fishing or Bird-Watching

Light Outdoor Exercises and Yoga

Outdoor Art and Craft Activities

Get Reliable Care for Dementia

Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Dementia Patients

These Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Dementia Patients Are Worth Considering

Personalized Photo Album

Music Therapy Kit

Adult Coloring Books

Comfortable Bathrobe

Personalized Mug or Tumbler

Navigating The Cost Of Respite Care

Improved Quality of Life

The Concern:
Balancing Caregiver Hours

Caregiver Burnout:
Why It Matters

Quality vs. Quantity