How much do you know about in-home care?

While the popularity of in-home care continues to grow, many people aren’t sure exactly what home care entails or how to secure in-home services. Fortunately, these problems are easy to fix! By debunking the most common home care myths and misconceptions, you and your loved ones can ensure that you’re getting the most that home care has to offer.

15 Home Care Myths Most People Believe

Home care: it’s important, life-changing, and very, very misunderstood. These 15 myths are the most common that surround the home care industry. Here’s what you need to know about them:

1) Home care is only for very sick people

While home care can certainly be helpful for terminally ill people, not all home care recipients are very ill. In fact, there are two very distinct types of home care services: medical and non-medical care. Medical care is often utilized by people who are recovering from an illness or injury or for people who need help coping with chronic conditions.

Non-medical care, on the other hand, offers help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like eating, bathing, personal care, and transportation. Non-medical home care aides may help their clients shop, prepare meals, clean, or complete housework. In some cases, non-medical home care simply provides companionship, which can be helpful in avoiding depressive symptoms and elevating an individual’s mood.

2) Home care is very expensive

For families that have never utilized home care, the thought can be intimidating. Many people believe that hiring an in-home care aide will be far too expensive, but fortunately they’re wrong! According to a 2010 survey conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care Network, the average family overestimates the cost of hiring a non-medical home care aide by about $6 an hour.

This means that hiring in-home care is actually far more affordable than most people believe. In stark contrast, Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey from 2011 states that the price of a private room in a nursing facility has jumped about 3.4% – to a total of more than $77,745 annually! With those numbers in mind, it’s clear that hiring in-home care may actually be more affordable than a nursing home.

3) Caregivers aren’t trustworthy

Any reputable in-home care service provider will do its absolute best to match seniors to caregivers who display similar interests and personalities. Additionally, most caregivers are required to pass measures like background and competency tests before interacting with clients. This helps ensure that the senior is matched with a quality caregiver that can meet the senior’s needs while also being trustworthy and reliable.

4) Home care is for people who lack independence

Hiring an in-home care aide doesn’t mean sacrificing your independence! In fact, in many cases, the introduction of an in-home care aide can actually help an individual maintain independence. By handling things that may be difficult, like cooking and cleaning, an in-home care aide can help make daily life easier and support the senior’s efforts to live independently for as long as possible.

Additionally, in-home caregivers can help clients maintain independence by preventing common nonfatal injuries like falls and fractures, which the CDC reports are the leading cause of injury death among those 65 and older.

5) In-home care is basically adult babysitting

Think again! While many seniors worry that hiring an in-home caregiver means having a watchful and disproving attendant around at all times, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In many cases, seniors form strong bonds with their in-home caregivers, which creates an environment of fun and closeness every time the caregiver visits.

6) Home care isn’t helpful for people with low or moderate needs

If you only need help conducting your shopping, but you can manage your housework and personal care just fine, don’t write off home care just yet. Home care is a widely varied market and there are professionals available to help you, regardless of what your needs may be. Whether you need an hour or 40 hours of help each week, you can find a caregiver that will provide this for you.

7) I don’t need home care – my family is already helping

As you age and your needs become more pronounced, the burden on friends and family can quickly become overwhelming. Hiring an in-home caregiver can allow your family and friends to participate in your care without stretching themselves too thin. The introduction of an in-home care aide ensures quality care, relief for family and friends, and a balanced care plan for everyone involved.

8) Home care is only for seniors

Just like home care isn’t only for people with limiting illnesses or disabilities, it’s not only for seniors. Home care is often utilized by parents with newborns or people recovering from surgical procedures. Home health care can be individualized to fit your unique needs, so you’ll always have access to a provider that can give you exactly what you need for your unique situation.

9) Home care is dangerous

While we certainly don’t recommend undergoing surgery at home, home care aides are trained professionals. If you require in-home medical care, you’ll be matched with a medical caregiver who can help administer a plan of care that is safe and medically sound.

For individuals who need high levels of in-home care, it’s often possible to secure the assistance of an in-home RN or other highly trained medical personnel. This ensures that your in-home care is just as safe as it would be in a hospital.

10) Seniors who need 24/7 care aren’t qualified for home care

Again, home care is highly individualized. This means that clients who need high levels of home care can find providers to offer it while those who need lower levels of home care will be matched accordingly. Home care agencies often put together 24/7 care teams and can work with you to ensure that you get exactly the services you need.

11) Home care doesn’t accommodate long-term needs

For seniors or other individuals with long-term care needs, home care can be a fantastic option. By matching the individual in need with a qualified individual or team of in-home caregivers, it’s easy for in-home care to accommodate long-term care needs.

12) The client has no say over who the in-home caregiver is

Just like all things, it’s possible that finding an ideal in-home caregiver may take some experimentation, but you as the client always have the final say. If you find that a caregiver and you don’t get along well, that you don’t trust or feel comfortable with the caregiver, or that the caregiver isn’t meeting your needs, you always have the option to replace the caregiver with one who works better. This ensures that you always find a great in-home care match and that you’re satisfied with your in-home services.

13) An in-home caregiver will replace the role of my friends and family

While an in-home caregiver can certainly provide a much-needed break for friends and family, it’s untrue that the presence of in-home care will replace the importance of friends and family. An in-home caregiver can supplement the care your friends and family provide, while at the same time deferring to the care preferences that you and your family agree upon.

14) An in-home caregiver will take over my loved one’s care plan

In-home caregivers are ideal for providing an extra set of hands and some medical expertise. Aside from that, however, they don’t dominate the in-home care situation. Depending upon the need of the client, an in-home caregiver will work with the client and his or her family to develop a care plan that meets the client’s needs while also working closely with the family and the client to ensure that the family feels involved to their desired level. This helps ensure an active role in the care of a loved one and prevents an in-home caregiver from providing more services than are needed or wanted.

15) In-home caregivers don’t care about their clients

While it’s important to hire a reputable in-home caregiver from a reputable home care agency, most caregivers enter the business specifically because they care about clients and want to do everything in their power to serve them.

When the match between a caregiver and a client is good, caregivers and clients often become friends. Most caregivers care deeply about their clients and will do everything in their power to help their clients feel happy, healthy, and independent.

The Case for in-Home Care

As long as people need personalized, individualized services, the popularity of in-home care will continue to grow. In order for this to happen, however, it’s important that we dispel the most common myths that surround home care. From its target population to its use for younger individuals, it’s important to know exactly what home care is and isn’t in order to use in-home care services as effectively as possible.

Article published in https://commhealthcare.com/15-crazy-home-care-myths-and-misconceptions/

Heart attacks are becoming more common especially after the development in scientific research. What people perceived as common chest pains, are now more distinctly categorized as types of heart attacks. Myocardial Infarction commonly known as heart attack is an episode that occurs due the stoppage of blood flow into a part of the heart. It can cause considerable damage to the heart muscle.

Each year, a considerable number of people fall victim to heart attacks despite the technological advancements in the field of medicine. However, it is found that the number of deaths due to heart attacks have reduced after recent advancements in medical science. People are now much more careful with their health regarding heart attacks and have become more conscious of conditions that possibly lead to heart attacks.

Is Death the Ultimate Result?

There are different degrees according to the severity of these attacks and not all heart attacks lead to death. However, no such episode is less painful and patients having gone through one such attack are more at risk of experiencing another. The risk however, can be minimized if proper precautionary measures are taken in advance.

Types of Heart Attacks

Based on the severity of attacks, heart attacks are classified as following:

• Coronary Artery Spasmis a type of heart attack where the walls of blood arteries tighten to such an extent that it ceases blood supply to the heart. It is not easily discoverable. However, calcium channel blockers and nitrates can help treat the heart disorder
• NSTEMI Heart Attacks result due to temporary and partial blockage of a coronary artery. It can be treated through angioplasty.
• STEMI Heart Attacks can result due to complete blockage of a coronary artery which results in a malfunctioning of a major part of heart muscle. It is a serious type of heart attack and therefore emergency treatments involve drugs such as ‘thrombolytics’.
• Demand Ischemia is a unique type of heart attack where a patient experiences shortage of oxygen in the blood. It often results due to infections and fast heart rates.

Are there any signs?

There are some common and obvious signs of a heart attack. These signs may seem minor and are therefore often ignored by people. This is also one big reason of the commonness of heart attacks in the world today. This article is intended to help common people and the medical field personnel to understand the basic symptoms and potential signs of a heart attack.

Before discussing these signs, there are some questions that you should ask yourself:

• Do I smoke? Around 20% to 22% of coronary artery diseases are caused due to smoking. It includes tobacco smoking and secondhand smoke i.e. too much exposure to air pollution.
• Did my ancestors have any history with heart attacks? If the answer is ‘Yes’, then you are more at risk of having one for yourself. Around 25 genetic variants are discovered to have been associated with heart attacks.
• Is my general health fine? Heart attacks can also result as a consequence of other health issues such as diabetes, blood pressure problems, obesity, cholesterol and others.
• Am I a man? In case you are, you face a higher risk as compared to women. The fact is not as concerning as it may sound but as a person ages, the chances of experiencing a heart attack also increase.

Some of these risk factors can be controlled while others are non-negotiable. In any case, precautionary measures can help reduce these risks.

Signs of a Heart Attack

As discussed before, there are some obvious and common signs that indicate to any possibility of heart attacks. Some of these major signs are mentioned below with brief and relevant details.

Heart Burn and Digestive Issues

Heart burn is a digestive disorder that results due to the opening of esophageal sphincter. During a heart burn episode, a person experiences sever pain in the chest. It normally happens to people who lie down immediately after having a meal. It can also cause stomach pains and vomits.  People who experience frequent heart burn episodes are at risk of experiencing a heart attack.

On some occasions, heart attacks are also mistaken for another such chest pain episodes and therefore, it is recommended that patients should consult medical experts once they are faced with such problems.

Pain in the Left side of the Body

It is one of the classic signs of a heart attack. A person may experience pain in the left side of the body. It generally rises in the left arm but on many occasions, it can run down the entire body. Normally, it is mistaken for a regular muscle pain and thereby ignored but it is one of the most common symptoms of a heart attack. Therefore, in case a person suffers pain in the left side of the body only especially the arm, there is a probability that a heart attack is around the corner.  The best way to avoid any severe consequences is to get immediate treatment and medical consultancy.

Quick Exhaustion

This is also a major symptom of a heart attack. In case you get tired too soon, you may be at risk of a heart attack. Try analyzing as to how quickly you get tired while doing some of the daily life activities like walking, climbing stairs, jogging and others, etc. Complete analysis of your daily life fatigue and exhaustion period can help you identify how much risk you face. Consult your medical advisors and doctors about your fatigue. It can reduce down any possible chances of a heart attack and thereby improve your health conditions as well.

Unstoppable Coughing

This is a symptom which is more common in those who already suffer from heart problems. They need to pay special attention and consult medical experts for it. Generally patients are faced with episodes where they do not cease coughing.  In severe cases, blood coughs are also witnessed. General signs of cough related heart attack symptoms are pinkish white mucus which results due to blood leakage in the lungs. Medications that help with ceasing coughs can help a great deal in overcoming this possible heart attack symptom.

Unusual Sweating

Sweating is pretty normal until it results due to some exercise or hot weather conditions. Some people generally loose much of their body’s liquid in the form of sweat. However, if a person experiences cold sweating for no apparent reasons, it is an alarming situation and immediate actions should be taken. Emergency checkup is most recommended to avoid any severe consequences.

Jaw Pain and Throat Pain

People suffering from sinus are commonly faced with jaw pain. Often it is related to any muscular problems. However, throat pain that initiates from the chest center and creeps up to the throat and then the jaw is one of the obvious signs of a heart attack possibility. Like other symptoms’ treatment, emergency medication and immediate consultation is inevitable for the patients. It can save from any further and much severer damages.

Dizziness

Feeling dizzy can be pretty normal especially after having taken a considerable amount of alcohol but if it happens for no apparent reason, it is the time you consult your medical advisor immediately.  Often this dizziness is accompanied by chest pains and gasping for breath. All these signs are alarming enough for a patient to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Swollen Hind Limbs

In case a person feels that the lower limbs are swelling abnormally, it is one of the more obvious indications of a heart attack. It happens as the heart cannot cope up with the demand of blood to the lower body. It also affects the kidneys as well as the urinary bladder. It arises due to a medical phenomenon referred to as ‘Bloating’. The swelling can also cause disturbance while walking and people are generally restricted to bed. Medical advisors should be consulted immediately to avoid any sever consequences.

Rapid Heart Beat

A stable heart beat is a sign of healthy heart. In case the heart rate disturbs too much or there is a big difference in average and recorded heartbeat, it is a possible sign of a heart attack. Many heart attack cases are reported to have had a cause that was directly or indirectly related to the inconsistency of the patient’s heartbeat. Therefore, heartbeat should be checked on regular basis and any abnormality should be reported to the doctor immediately to keep from a possible heart attack.

Snoring

One can never predict as to how loud or softly he or she snores while sleeping. Loud snoring is also a sign of heart attacks. An external observer can be asked to keep a check on the level of snoring especially for those who suffer from heart problems.

Conclusion

Heart attacks are a common problem in the world today. Most people in the world who suffer from heart attacks are unaware of the possible signs and symptoms of heart attacks and therefore, it should be strictly considered that a patient is kept under observation for all the above mentioned symptoms.

Article published in https://commhealthcare.com/signs-of-heart-attack/

In today’s multicultural world, Yoga is most commonly associated with a list of frequently used exercise modalities, comparable to resistance training, pilates, or stretching. The truth is, however, that Yoga is an ancient, complex practice with roots in Indian philosophy and dates back thousands of years. People used Yoga practices as a way of training the body and mind to become aware of their own nature. Yet, what was recognized as a spiritual practice centuries ago, by now has evolved into a popular method of promoting physical and mental well-being in today’s modern era, as well.

The term “Yoga” is an umbrella term that includes various styles and practices. A general reference to “yoga” would refer to the Hatha variety. Hatha is considered a gentle yoga that emphasizes static poses and is great starting point for those who are unfamiliar. It typically includes 3 components:

1. Pranayama or breathing exercises, are generally the first part of hatha yoga classes. As you move through the poses, the instructor will continue to remind you to focus on your breath and may offer different breathing exercises to try.

2. Poses: Yoga poses, also called postures or asanas, are a series of movements that help improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Poses range in difficulty from laying flat on the floor to physically challenging positions. If at any time during a class, a pose is too challenging, the instructor can provide a modified posture.

3. Meditation: Most classes end with a short period of meditation. During this period of quiet reflection, the instructor may take the class through a guided meditation.

Yoga offers various benefits at a low-risk capacity, and has therefore become increasingly favored among seniors. Caregivers can explore various methods of yoga and help by integrating basic poses into their routines with the adults they care for. Some Yoga positions, such as those included in gentle Yoga, are quite simple, and can be done with just the support of a chair. However, it is always crucial to exercise caution when starting a fitness program and consult directly with a doctor or physical therapist to ensure that their patient is at the appropriate fitness level for the new exercise plan.

With approval from a medical authority and/or therapist, go ahead and see why assorted Yoga practices are a great way for older adults to maintain their physical health and improve overall wellness. Here we highlighted some:

Better Balance

Older adults are at a higher risk of broken or fractured bones caused by them losing their balance and falling. Iyengar Yoga is methodical and precise, with a strong emphasis on maintaining good posture and finding proper form. Using props like bolsters, straps, blocks, and incline boards, participants are able to get into correct alignment and practice improved balance. For seniors with arthritis or other chronic conditions, Yoga helps fortify tiny stabilizer muscles that are typically unnoticed, yet once strengthened, can drastically lower the risk of injury caused by a dangerous fall.

Stronger Core

As a rule, muscle mass generally declines with age, starting when some hit their 40s, and picking up speed after age 50. This gradual change can leave older adults feeling increasingly weaker with time and, if nothing is done, cause them to feel that they are slowly losing control and independence in their lives. Yet, while declining muscle mass is an inevitable part of getting older, there are things adults can do to prevent or reverse muscle loss, as the old saying goes, ‘you have to use it or lose it’. With Yoga, transitioning into different positions challenges muscles to support the weight of the body and strengthens the muscle fibers in the process. Yoga builds strength in the muscles you don’t use in everyday living, while toning the ones that you do.

Super Stretching

Chronic back pain is extremely common, inconvenient, and can be debilitating for many seniors. A regular Yoga practice stretches and moves the body to include spine movement in all directions, such as laterally, forward and twisting from side to side. Therefore, as little as a 10-minute daily Yoga exercise may boost a senior’s flexibility, resulting in increased mobility and comfort. For those with a history of aggravating back ailments, Yoga helps to keep their spines healthy and avoid further damage.

Less Stress

By merging meditation and mindful breathing, Yoga exercises encourage one to focus on the present moment and arrive at a sense of inner peace. Research has demonstrated that Yoga can also lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also decrease inflammation throughout the body, which can significantly improve heart health. Yoga can help alleviate several of the conditions that are associated with heart disease, including high blood pressure and obesity.

While noting the relaxation effect that Yoga can have on its participants, it is also worth exploring Restorative Yoga, a meditative form of Yoga that is designed to release tension without stretching. In this style of Yoga, props are used to support the body, and poses are held for several minutes to maximize relaxation. It’s not uncommon for people to fall asleep while in a restorative Yoga class. Similarly, many seniors find that incorporating a nightly Yoga routine into their schedules helps relax their minds after the events of the day and prepare their bodies to fall and stay asleep.

Considering the various health benefits Yoga offers, there are several ways caregivers can help get started:

Yoga classes: Ask around in the community for Yoga classes in the area. Some local options may also offer free or discounted classes for seniors. It is worth noting that joining a group Yoga session also offers older adults the benefits of a productive social outlet. Consistently doing exercise in a group setting can help foster positive relationships and decrease the loneliness that many seniors experience as they age.

Yoga at home: In an area or circumstance where in-person classes are not available or attractive, search online for yoga videos available for individual use. Here are a few yoga videos for seniors to begin with:

Gentle Chair Yoga for Beginners and Seniors: ideal for those with limited mobility or those recovering from an injury.

30-Minute Restorative Yoga and Meditation: a slow-paced class suitable for seniors, focusing on the mental and meditative benefits of yoga

Full Length Gentle Yoga Class for Beginners and Seniors: a slow-paced, 30-minute yoga flow, featuring a number of seated and standing poses. Includes modifications for beginners.

We’ve addressed some helpful points that can encourage seniors and their caregivers to explore incorporating Yoga as a new health practice. With numerous physical and emotional benefits, many have found it to be a great outlet and healthy lifestyle choice, however, be sure to consult with a physician before adopting any new exercise regimen.

Feel free to further explore our website, where you can find additional caregiver resources and a variety of timely topics such as medical assistance, personal care, and senior companionship.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our team of caring and experienced personal caregivers, registered nurses, and home health aides who expertly serve families just like yours. We’re here for you and happy to assist your family. Give us a call at (845) 425-6555 with any questions.

Articles published in https://commhealthcare.com/why-yoga-is-great-for-seniors/