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Ways to Stay Active for Seniors
24 Apr

6 Ways for Seniors to Stay Active

6 Ways for Seniors to Stay Active

Staying active is essential for everyone, especially seniors. Physical activity can help seniors improve their health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance their quality of life. However, staying active can also be challenging for seniors, who may face barriers such as lack of motivation, accessibility, or safety issues. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 6 ways for seniors to stay active that are fun, easy, and suitable for their needs and preferences. Whether you’re a senior yourself or a caregiver for an old, we hope you’ll find some inspiration and guidance from this article.

Key Takeaways

  • Staying active can benefit seniors in many ways, such as improving physical and mental health, preventing chronic diseases, and enhancing quality of life.
  • There are six ways for seniors to stay active that are fun, easy, and suitable for their needs and preferences: joining a senior-friendly exercise class, walking with a pet or a friend, doing some gardening or yard work, playing a video game or a board game, volunteering for a cause or a community, and trying something new or learning a new skill.
  • These activities can help seniors improve their strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination, stimulate their brain, boost their mood, and socialize with others.
  • Seniors can find and join these activities by checking with local senior centers, fitness centers, or online platforms, choosing a suitable route, pace, and duration, using raised beds, containers, or tools that are easy to handle, choosing a game that is suitable for their skill level and preference, finding a cause or a community that aligns with their values and passions, and exploring the options and opportunities available.
  • Seniors should find an activity they enjoy, schedule regularly, track their progress and results, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, stay hydrated, and take breaks.

Join a Senior-Friendly Exercise Class

One of the best ways for seniors to stay active is to join a senior-friendly exercise class. Exercise classes help seniors improve their strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination, essential for maintaining mobility and independence. Exercise classes can also help seniors socialize with others who share their interests and goals, which can improve their mental health and well-being.

Many exercise classes, such as yoga, tai chi, water aerobics, and dance, suit seniors. These classes are low-impact, gentle, and adaptable to different levels of fitness and ability. They can also be fun, relaxing, and enjoyable, involving music, movement, and breathing techniques.

To find and join a senior-friendly exercise class, you can check with your local senior center, fitness center, or online platform, such as SilverSneakers, which offers free access to thousands of fitness locations and classes for seniors eligible for Medicare. You can also ask your doctor, friends, or family for recommendations or try a free trial class before committing to a membership or a subscription.

Walk with a Pet or a Friend

Another simple and effective way for seniors to stay active is to walk with a pet or a friend. Walking is a low-impact and accessible exercise that can help seniors improve their cardiovascular health, burn calories, and reduce stress. Walking can also be enjoyable, rewarding, and safe for seniors, as they can walk with a pet or a friend who can provide companionship and support.

Walking with a pet can be especially beneficial for seniors, as it can enhance their mood, creativity, and cognitive function and strengthen their bond with their furry friend. Walking with friends can also benefit seniors, increasing their motivation, accountability, and social interaction and reducing loneliness and isolation.

To walk with a pet or a friend, choose a suitable route, pace, and duration that matches your fitness level and preference. You can also vary your route, pace, and duration to keep your walks exciting and challenging. You should also wear comfortable shoes and clothing, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed. You can also use a pedometer, a smartphone app, or a fitness tracker to monitor your steps, distance, and calories burned.

Do Some Gardening or Yard Work

If you enjoy being outdoors and working with plants, you can do gardening or yard work to stay active. Gardening or yard work can be a form of physical activity that can help seniors enhance their mood, creativity, and cognitive function and beautify their environment. Gardening or yard work can also be adapted to suit the abilities and interests of seniors, as they can use raised beds, containers, or tools that are easy to handle and choose plants that are easy to grow and maintain.

To do gardening or yard work, you can plan and decide what plants you want to grow, such as flowers, herbs, vegetables, or fruits. You can also consider the season, the climate, and the space available. You should also wear protective gear, such as gloves, hats, and sunscreen, and take breaks as needed. You can also ask for help from a family member, a friend, or a professional if you require assistance or advice.

Play a Video Game or a Board Game

Playing a video game or a board game can be another way seniors can stay mentally and physically active. Video or board games can help seniors stimulate their brains, improve their memory and concentration, and enhance their hand-eye coordination and reaction time. Playing a video game or a board game can also be fun, challenging, and interactive for seniors, as they can play with others or by themselves and enjoy entertainment and learning opportunities.

Many video games or board games, such as puzzles, trivia, strategy, or card games, are suitable for seniors. These games can be played on various devices, such as computers, tablets, smartphones, consoles, or on a table or a board. They can also be customized to the skill level and preference of the senior, such as the difficulty, the speed, or the theme.

To play a video game or a board game, you can choose a game that you like or want to try and use an easy-to-operate device. Depending on your mood and availability, you can also play with others, such as family members, friends, or online players, or by yourself. You can also set a time limit, a score goal, or a reward system to make your game more exciting and motivating.

Volunteer for a Cause or a Community

Volunteering can be an excellent way for seniors to stay active, give back to society, make a difference, and meet new people. It is a form of social and physical activity that can help seniors improve their health, happiness, and self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose and belonging. Volunteering can also be rewarding, meaningful, and fulfilling for seniors, who can use their skills, talents, and experiences to help others in need.

There are many ways for seniors to volunteer, such as for a cause or a community that aligns with their values and passions, such as animal welfare, environmental protection, education, or health care. They can also volunteer for various tasks, such as tutoring, mentoring, fundraising, or delivering meals. Depending on their availability and commitment, they can volunteer for a flexible or fixed amount of time.

To volunteer, you can find a cause or community you care about and contact the organization that supports it. You can also ask your friends, family, or neighbors for suggestions or search online for opportunities, such as on VolunteerMatch, which connects volunteers with nonprofits. You can also seek guidance and support from the organization and follow its rules and regulations.

Try Something New or Learn a New Skill

The last way seniors stay active is to try something new or learn a new skill. Trying something new or learning a new skill can be a form of cognitive and physical activity that can help seniors expand their horizons, boost their confidence, and increase their self-esteem. It can also be exciting, adventurous, and satisfying for seniors, as they can discover new things, challenge themselves, and achieve their goals.

There are many things that seniors can try or learn, such as a new language, instrument, hobby, or sport. These things can be discovered online, such as on YouTube, Udemy, or Duolingo, or offline, such as in a class, a workshop, or a club. Depending on their interest and ability, they can also be learned at their own pace, level, and style.

To try something new or learn a new skill, you can explore the options and opportunities and choose something you are curious or passionate about. You can also set realistic and attainable goals and track your progress and results. You can also seek feedback and encouragement from others, such as instructors, peers, or family members.

24/7 Hospice Care Support
24 Apr

Tips for Keeping the Senior in Your Life Active

Tips for Keeping the Senior in Your Life Active

Key Takeaways

  • Keeping the seniors in your life active can improve their physical and mental health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance their quality of life.
  • You can help the seniors stay active by encouraging them to participate in social, physical, mental, and spiritual activities that are enjoyable, suitable, and safe for them.
  • You can also help the senior in your life overcome the challenges and barriers that may prevent them from being active, such as lack of motivation, social isolation, health problems, or accessibility issues.
  • Hospicelosangeles.net can provide you with more information and assistance on how to keep the senior in your life active and offer hospice and palliative care services for those who need them.

Keeping the seniors in your life active is one of the best ways to show them your love and care. Whether it is your parent, grandparent, spouse, friend, or neighbor, the senior in your life can benefit from being active in many ways.

According to the World Health Organization, physical activity can reduce the risk of falls, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some cancers among older adults. It can also help maintain or improve their strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance, essential for their daily functioning and independence.

Mental activity can stimulate the brain, enhance memory, and prevent cognitive decline among older adults. It can also help them cope with stress, depression, and anxiety, which are common mental health issues among older adults.

Social activity can prevent loneliness, improve mood, and foster a sense of belonging among older adults. It can also provide them with emotional support, companionship, and opportunities to share their experiences and wisdom.

Spiritual activity can nourish the soul, provide meaning and purpose, and cope with stress and loss among older adults. It can also help them find comfort, peace, and hope later, especially when they face questions, doubts, and fears about their mortality and legacy.

In this article, we will provide some tips on keeping the senior in your life active in four domains: social, physical, mental, and spiritual. We will also provide some resources and information on how hospicelosangeles.net can help you and the seniors with your needs and concerns.

Tips for Keeping the Senior in Your Life Active

Social Activities

One of the most important aspects of keeping the seniors in your life active is to help them stay connected with others. Social activities can help them prevent loneliness, which is a significant risk factor for depression, dementia, and mortality among older adults. Social activities can also improve their mood, self-esteem, and well-being and provide them with a sense of belonging and community.

Some examples of social activities that the senior in your life can participate in are:

  • Joining a club or a group that shares their hobbies, interests, or passions, such as knitting, gardening, book club, or chess club.
  • Attending a class or a workshop that teaches them something new or enhances their skills, such as cooking, painting, photography, or computer skills.
  • Visiting a friend or a relative they last saw a while ago or inviting them over for a chat, a meal, or a game.
  • Hosting a family gathering or a celebration that brings together their loved ones, such as a birthday, an anniversary, or a holiday.
  • Volunteering for a cause they care about or a service they can offer, such as tutoring, mentoring, or helping at a soup kitchen, library, or hospital.

You can use the Eldercare Locator to help the senior in your life find and connect with others who share their interests. This public service can help you locate local resources and services for older adults and their caregivers. You can also use online platforms and communities like Meetup, Facebook, or Nextdoor to find and join groups and events that suit your preferences and needs. Alternatively, you can contact local organizations, such as senior centers, community centers, churches, or libraries, to inquire about their programs and activities for older adults.

Physical Activities

Another crucial aspect of keeping the seniors in your life active is to help them stay physically fit and healthy. Physical activities can help them maintain or improve their strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance, essential for their daily functioning and independence. Physical activities can also reduce the risk of falls, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some cancers among older adults.

Some examples of physical activities that the senior in your life can do are:

  • Walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming are low-impact aerobic exercises that can improve their cardiovascular health and endurance.
  • Gardening, cleaning, household chores, or moderate-intensity activities that can burn calories and strengthen their muscles and bones.
  • Dancing, yoga, or tai chi are fun and relaxing activities that can improve their balance, flexibility, and coordination.
  • Lifting weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight exercises are high-intensity activities that can build muscle mass and power.

To make physical activities fun for the senior in your life, you can:

  • Listen to music, watch a video, or follow a podcast that can motivate them and keep them entertained while they exercise.
  • Try new exercises, routines, or equipment that can challenge them and keep them interested in their workouts.
  • Compete with others, such as their friends, family, or neighbors, who can inspire and keep them accountable for their goals.

However, before the senior in your life starts any physical activity, you should consult their doctor to ensure the activity is safe and suitable for them. You should also follow the guidelines for physical activity for older adults, which recommend that they do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. You should also take precautions and safety tips, such as:

  • Warm up before and cooling down after each session to prevent injuries and soreness.
  • Staying hydrated and eating well to replenish their energy and nutrients.
  • Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear to protect them from the weather and the terrain.
  • Avoid extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, or humidity, that can pose health risks for them.

Mental Activities

Another vital aspect of keeping the seniors in your life active is to help them stay mentally sharp and alert. Mental activities can help them stimulate their brain, enhance memory, and prevent cognitive decline among older adults. Mental activities can also help them cope with stress, depression, and anxiety, which are common mental health issues among older adults.

Some examples of mental activities that the senior in your life can do are:

  • Reading, writing, or listening to books, magazines, newspapers, or podcasts that can inform, entertain, or inspire them.
  • Solving puzzles, playing games, or doing quizzes that can challenge their logic, reasoning, or creativity, such as crossword, sudoku, chess, or trivia.
  • Learning a new skill, language, or instrument that can expand their knowledge, abilities, or horizons, such as cooking, painting, photography, or guitar.
  • Teaching, mentoring, or sharing their skills, knowledge, or wisdom with others who can benefit from their expertise, experience, or perspective, such as children, students, or peers.

To challenge and improve their brain, you can:

  • Increase their mental activities’ difficulty, frequency, or variety, such as reading more complex books, solving more challenging puzzles, or learning a different language.
  • Combine mental activities with physical or social activities, such as reading while walking, playing games with friends, or learning a skill with a partner.
  • Monitor their progress and reward their achievements, such as keeping track of their scores, levels, or certificates or celebrating their milestones, accomplishments, or successes.

However, you should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of cognitive impairment, which is a condition that affects the ability to think, remember, or perform daily tasks. Some of the signs and symptoms of cognitive impairment are:

  • Memory loss, such as forgetting names, dates, events, or appointments.
  • Confusion, such as getting lost, mixing up words, or needing help following instructions.
  • Difficulty, such as solving problems, making decisions, or planning activities.
  • Changes, such as mood, personality, behavior, or interest.

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms in the senior in your life, you should contact their doctor as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and treatment. You should also provide them with help and support, such as reminding them of important information, assisting them with daily tasks, or accompanying them to appointments. You can also access hospice and palliative care services from hospicelosangeles.net, which can provide you and the senior in your life with medical, emotional, and spiritual care and guidance.

Spiritual Activities

The last but not most minor aspect of keeping the senior in your life active is to help them stay spiritually fulfilled and satisfied. Spiritual activities can help them nourish their soul, provide meaning and purpose, and cope with stress and loss among older adults. Spiritual activities can also help them find comfort, peace, and hope in their later years, especially when they face questions, doubts, and fears about their mortality and legacy.

Some examples of spiritual activities that the senior in your life can do are:

  • Praying, meditating, or practicing mindfulness that can help them connect with their higher power, inner self, or nature and calm their mind, body, and spirit.
  • Practicing yoga, tai chi, or qigong can help them balance their energy, harmony, and wellness and improve their physical, mental, and emotional health.
  • Attending a religious service, ceremony, or ritual that can help them express their faith, beliefs, or values and join a community of like-minded people.
  • Reflecting on their life experiences, stories, or memories that can help them appreciate their past, present, and future and share their insights, lessons, or wisdom with others.
  • Expressing gratitude, forgiveness, or compassion that can help them acknowledge their blessings, heal their wounds, or help others in need, as well as cultivate a positive, generous, or kind attitude.

To explore and express their spirituality, you can:

  • Encourage them to discover and pursue their passions, dreams, or goals that can give them joy, fulfillment, or direction and inspire them to live their best lives.
  • Support them in facing and overcoming their challenges, fears, or regrets that can hinder them from achieving their potential, happiness, or peace, as well as empower them to grow and learn from their experiences.
  • Help them create and leave a legacy, such as a memoir, a video, a letter, or a gift, that can capture and convey their essence, values, or message and honor their memory and impact.

However, you should also be aware of the benefits and challenges of spirituality for older adults. Spirituality can provide them with comfort, peace, and hope, especially when they face illness, death, or grief. Spirituality can also help them cope with stress, depression, and anxiety, which are common mental health issues among older adults. However, spirituality can also pose questions, doubts, and fears, especially when they face uncertainty, change, or loss. Spirituality can also cause conflicts, tensions, or isolation, especially when they have different views, beliefs, or practices from others.

If you or the senior need spiritual care and guidance, you can contact a chaplain, counselor, or spiritual leader who can provide support, advice, or resources. You can also use the hospice and palliative care services from hospicelosangeles.net, which can give you and the senior in your life medical, emotional, and spiritual care and guidance.

Emergency Lifeline Hospice Support
24 Apr

No Need to Wait for the Future – Technology Works for Seniors Now

No Need to Wait for the Future – Technology Works for Seniors Now

Key Takeaways:

  • Technology can improve the quality of life and well-being of seniors in hospice and palliative care
  • There are various types of technology that seniors can use, such as mobile apps, devices, services, and platforms
  • Seniors can choose and use technology based on their needs, preferences, budget, and skills
  • Technology can help seniors stay connected and engaged with their family, friends, and caregivers
  • Technology can also provide entertainment, education, and hobbies for seniors

Technology is for more than just the young and the savvy. It can also benefit seniors, especially those in hospice and palliative care. Hospice and palliative care are specialized medical care that provides comfort and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Technology can help seniors in hospice and palliative care improve their quality of life and well-being by enhancing their physical, mental, social, and emotional health.

This article will explore how technology works for seniors now and the options, tips, and benefits of using technology in hospice and palliative care. We will also provide some examples and resources for further information and support.

Technology for Seniors: What Are the Options?

Technology is a broad term that can refer to any application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes. For seniors, technology can include anything that can help them with their daily activities, health, communication, and leisure. Here are some of the main types of technology that seniors can use and how they can help them:

  • Mobile apps: Mobile apps are software applications that can be downloaded and installed on smartphones or tablets. Mobile apps can help seniors with various tasks, such as managing their medications, monitoring their vital signs, tracking their symptoms, accessing their medical records, booking appointments, ordering groceries, paying bills, and more. Some examples of mobile apps for seniors are Medisafe, CareZone, MyChart, Instacart, and Mint.
  • Devices: Devices are hardware gadgets that seniors can wear, carry, or use. They can help seniors with various functions, such as measuring their blood pressure, glucose, oxygen, heart rate, etc. Devices can also alert seniors or caregivers in emergencies like falls, seizures, or strokes. Some examples of devices for seniors are blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, pulse oximeters, smartwatches, fall detection pendants, and medical alert systems.
  • Services: Services are online or offline platforms that can provide seniors with various types of assistance, such as transportation, delivery, home care, telehealth, and more. Services can help seniors with mobility, convenience, safety, and access to professional care. Some examples of services for seniors are Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Home Instead, Visiting Angels, and Teladoc.
  • Platforms: Platforms are online or offline communities connecting seniors with other people, such as family, friends, caregivers, volunteers, and peers. Platforms can help seniors with their social and emotional health by allowing them to chat, video call, share, learn, and have fun. Some examples of platforms for seniors are Facebook, Skype, Zoom, Senior Planet, and AARP.

Of course, these are only some types of technology seniors can use. Many more options are available, and new ones are being developed daily. The key is to find the technology that suits the needs and preferences of each senior.

How to Choose and Use Technology for Seniors?

Choosing and using technology can be daunting for some seniors, especially if they need to become more familiar or comfortable with it. However, some tips and advice can help seniors maximize technology and enjoy its benefits. Here are some of them:

  • Identify your needs and preferences: Before choosing any technology, you must identify what you need and want from it. For example, do you need technology to help with your health, mobility, safety, or convenience? Do you prefer technology that is simple, easy, or fun to use? Do you have special requirements like vision, hearing, or cognitive impairments? Knowing your needs and preferences lets you narrow down your options and find the technology that suits you best.

  • Compare and research: Once you have identified your needs and preferences, you can compare and research different types of technology that meet your criteria. You can use online sources, such as websites, blogs, reviews, and videos, to learn more about each technology’s features, benefits, drawbacks, and costs. You can also ask for recommendations and opinions from your family, friends, caregivers, or other seniors who have used the technology before. By comparing and researching, you can make an informed and confident decision about your desired technology.

  • Try before you buy: It is always a good idea to try the technology before you purchase it. You can test the technology in person, such as at a store, a library, a senior center, or a friend’s house, to see how it works and how you feel about it. You can also try the technology online by downloading a free trial, a demo, or a sample to see if it meets your expectations and needs. By testing, before you buy, you can save money and time on technology that you don’t like or use.

  • Learn and improve: After you have chosen and bought the technology you want to use, you can learn and improve your skills and knowledge on how to operate it. You can use online sources, such as tutorials, guides, manuals, and FAQs, to learn the basics of technology and tips and tricks. You can also ask for help and guidance from your family, friends, caregivers, or other seniors who are more experienced or proficient with the technology. By learning and improving, you can increase your confidence and competence with the technology and enjoy its benefits more.

  • Be safe and secure: When using technology, it is essential to be safe and secure, especially when it involves your personal, financial, or medical information. You can protect yourself and your data by following simple steps, such as creating strong and unique passwords, using antivirus and firewall software, regularly updating your devices and apps, avoiding suspicious links and attachments, and backing up your data. By being safe and secure, you can prevent and avoid potential risks and threats, such as scams, frauds, viruses, and hackers.

How to Stay Connected and Engaged?

Technology can also help seniors stay connected and engaged with their family, friends, and caregivers and also provide entertainment, education, and hobbies for seniors. Staying connected and engaged can improve the social and emotional health of seniors, as well as reduce their feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression. Here are some of the ways that technology can help seniors stay connected and engaged:

  • Communication and interaction: Technology can enable seniors to communicate and interact with their loved ones, regardless of the distance or time. Seniors can use technology to chat, call, video call, email, or text their family, friends, and caregivers and share their thoughts, feelings, stories, and memories. Seniors can also use technology to join online groups, forums, or clubs to meet and interact with other seniors who share their interests, hobbies, or experiences. Some examples of technology for communication and interaction are Facebook, Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp, and Senior Chatters.

  • Entertainment and leisure: Technology can provide seniors with various sources of entertainment and leisure, such as music, movies, games, books, podcasts, and more. Seniors can use technology to listen to their favorite songs, watch their favorite shows, play games, read their favorite books, or discover new ones. Seniors can also use technology to enjoy live events, such as concerts, sports, or theater, from the comfort of their homes. Some examples of technology for entertainment and leisure are Spotify, Netflix, YouTube, Kindle, and Audible.

  • Education and learning: Technology can offer seniors various opportunities for education and learning, such as courses, tutorials, webinars, and more. Seniors can use technology to learn new skills, languages, or subjects or refresh existing ones. Seniors can also use technology to access online libraries, museums, or archives to explore and learn about different topics, cultures, or histories. Some examples of technology for education and learning are Coursera, Duolingo, TED, Google Arts & Culture, and Archive.org.

  • Hobbies and creativity: Technology can inspire seniors to pursue their hobbies and creativity, such as art, photography, writing, gardening, and more. Seniors can use technology to create, edit, and share their works or admire and appreciate the works of others. Seniors can also use technology to find and order the materials, tools, or equipment for their hobbies and creativity. Some examples of technology for hobbies and creativity are Instagram, Pinterest, Canva, Amazon, and Etsy.

Using technology, seniors can stay connected and engaged with their family, friends, and caregivers and have fun, learn, and express themselves.

Private Nursing Hospice Care
24 Apr

Protecting Seniors’ Financial Well-Being

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Elderly Hospice Care
24 Apr

9 Early Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

9 Early Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia are progressive brain disorders that affect millions of people worldwide. They cause memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes that interfere with daily life and independence.

Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia are crucial for getting the best treatment and care possible. They also allow the person and their family to plan and make informed decisions about their future.

This article will discuss 9 early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia you should know. These symptoms may vary from person to person and may not always indicate Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. However, if you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia are brain disorders that cause memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.
  • Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia are essential for getting the best treatment and care possible.
  • 9 early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia are memory loss that disrupts daily life, difficulty planning or solving problems, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, new problems with words in speaking or writing, misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps, decreased or poor judgment, and withdrawal from work or social activities.
  • If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consult your doctor immediately.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life

One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is memory loss, especially in the early stage. Memory loss can affect daily life in many ways, such as:

  • Forgetting important dates or events, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or appointments.
  • Asking the same questions repeatedly, such as what day, time, or what you just said.
  • Relying on memory aids or family members for things that used to be handled independently, such as using a calendar, a list, a phone, or a GPS to remember things.
  • Forgetting names of people, places, or things, such as your friends, neighbors, favorite restaurants, or car keys.

Memory loss is expected as we age, but it is not normal when it disrupts daily life and affects your ability to function. If you or a loved one experiences memory loss that interferes with your daily activities, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with memory loss are:

  • Use reminders, calendars, notes, or electronic devices to help them remember things.
  • Create a routine or schedule for daily tasks and activities, and stick to it as much as possible.
  • Keep things in the same place, and label or color-code items frequently used or misplaced.
  • Be patient and supportive, and avoid criticizing or arguing with them.

Difficulty planning or solving problems

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is difficulty planning or solving problems. This can affect the ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers, such as:

  • Having trouble following a familiar recipe or cooking a meal, especially if it involves multiple steps or ingredients.
  • Need help keeping track of monthly bills or a checkbook or making errors or mistakes when paying or managing finances.
  • Having trouble concentrating, thinking logically, or taking longer than usual to do things that require mental effort or calculation.

Difficulty planning or solving problems can be caused by stress, fatigue, or depression, but it can also be a sign of cognitive impairment. If you or a loved one have difficulty planning or solving problems that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with difficulty planning or solving problems are:

  • Break down tasks into more straightforward steps and provide clear and concise instructions or guidance.
  • Use calculators, apps, or other tools to help them with numbers or calculations.
  • Ask for help, and seek professional advice or assistance if necessary.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is difficulty completing familiar tasks. This can affect the ability to perform routine tasks that require concentration or critical thinking, such as:

  • Having trouble driving to a familiar location, such as your home, workplace, or doctor’s office.
  • Having trouble organizing a grocery list, shopping for items, or putting them away.
  • Having trouble remembering the rules of a favorite game, such as chess, cards, or crossword puzzles.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks can be caused by distraction, boredom, or lack of interest, but it can also be a sign of cognitive decline. If you or a loved one have difficulty completing familiar tasks that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with difficulty completing familiar tasks are:

  • Offer guidance, assistance, or supervision when needed, and avoid taking over or doing things for them.
  • Simplify the task or the environment and eliminate unnecessary or confusing items or distractions.
  • Find alternative ways to do public transportation, online shopping, or simpler games.

Confusion with time or place

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is confusion with time or place. This can affect the perception of time and space, such as:

  • Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time, such as not knowing what day of the week it is, what month it is, or what year it is.
  • Forgetting where they are or how they got there, such as not recognizing their surroundings, home, or location.
  • Having trouble understanding or remembering events that are not happening in the present, such as not recalling recent or past events or confusing past and present.

Confusion with time or place can be caused by stress, anxiety, or fatigue, but it can also be a sign of cognitive impairment. If you or a loved one have confusion with time or place that affects your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with confusion about time or place are:

  • Use clocks, calendars, or photos to orient them to the current date, time, or place.
  • Keep a consistent routine or schedule for daily tasks and activities, and remind them of what they are doing or have done.
  • Avoid changes or unfamiliar places that may confuse or disorient them, and provide cues or directions if needed.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is trouble understanding graphical images and spatial relationships. This can affect the vision and the ability to judge distance, color, or contrast, such as:

  • Having difficulty reading, writing, or recognizing words, letters, or numbers, such as mixing up or skipping words, letters, or numbers, or having trouble with spelling or grammar.
  • Having difficulty driving, parking, or navigating, such as misjudging the distance or speed of other vehicles, hitting the curb or other objects, or getting lost or confused.
  • Having difficulty recognizing faces or objects, such as not knowing who someone is, what something is, or what something is used for.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships can be caused by eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. Still, it can also be a sign of cognitive decline. If you or a loved one have trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up and an eye exam.

Some tips on how to help a person with trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships are:

  • Use clear, large, or contrasting fonts, colors, or labels for reading or writing materials, such as books, newspapers, magazines, or signs.
  • Ensure adequate lighting and visibility for tasks that require vision, such as driving, cooking, or cleaning, and avoid glare or reflections that may impair vision.
  • Use gestures, pictures, or objects to aid communication or recognition, such as pointing, showing, or demonstrating what you mean or want.

New problems with words in speaking or writing

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is new problems with words in speaking or writing. This can affect language and communication skills, such as:

  • Having trouble following or joining a conversation, such as losing the train of thought, drifting off-topic, or needing help understanding what others say.
  • Stopping in the middle of a sentence or having difficulty finding the right word or name, such as using the wrong word, making up words, or calling things by a bad name.
  • Repeating themselves or repeating the same thing repeatedly, such as telling the same story, asking the same question, or making the same comment.

New problems with words in speaking or writing can be caused by stress, emotion, or fatigue, but they can also be a sign of cognitive impairment. If you or a loved one have new problems with words in speaking or writing that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with new problems with words in speaking or writing are:

  • Speak slowly, clearly, and simply, and use short and simple sentences or questions.
  • Use gestures, pictures, or objects to aid communication or understanding, such as pointing, showing, or demonstrating what you mean or want.
  • Be patient and supportive, and avoid interrupting, correcting, or arguing with them.

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. This can affect the memory and the ability to organize or keep track of things, such as:

  • Put things in unusual places, such as the remote control in the fridge, the keys in the trash, or the glasses in the oven.
  • Losing or forgetting things, such as not remembering where they left something, what they were looking for, or what they were doing.
  • Accusing others of stealing, hiding, or moving their things, such as blaming their spouse, children, or caregivers for taking their belongings.

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps can be caused by distraction, stress, or clutter, but it can also be a sign of cognitive decline. If you or a loved one have misplaced things and cannot retrace steps that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps are:

  • Keep things in the same place, and label or color-code items frequently used or misplaced.
  • Use a GPS or locator to track or find easily lost items, such as wallets, phones, or purses.
  • Be calm and supportive, and avoid accusing or arguing with them.

Decreased or poor judgment

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is decreased or poor judgment. This can affect the decision-making and reasoning skills, such as:

  • Making bad financial or personal choices, such as wasting money, giving money to strangers or scammers, or neglecting their own needs or interests.
  • Neglecting personal hygiene or safety, such as wearing dirty or inappropriate clothes, not bathing or grooming, or leaving the stove on or the door unlocked.
  • Falling for scams or frauds, such as believing false or misleading claims, giving out personal or financial information, or signing contracts or documents without understanding them.

Decreased or poor judgment can be caused by stress, emotion, or impulsivity, but it can also be a sign of cognitive impairment. If you or a loved one have decreased or poor judgment that affects your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with decreased or poor judgment are:

  • Monitor their finances, legal or medical affairs, and help them manage their money, bills, or documents.
  • Provide guidance or reminders for personal hygiene or safety, and ensure they have the necessary supplies or equipment.
  • Protect them from potential harm or exploitation, and educate them about the risks or signs of scams or fraud.

Withdrawal from work or social activities

Another sign of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia is withdrawal from work or social activities. This can affect the mood and the interest in hobbies or activities, such as:

  • Losing interest or motivation in work or leisure, such as not enjoying or performing well at their job or quitting or retiring early.
  • Avoiding friends or family, declining invitations or calls, such as not wanting to talk to or see anyone, or isolating themselves from others.
  • Becoming isolated or depressed, such as feeling sad, lonely, or hopeless or losing their sense of purpose or meaning.

Withdrawal from work or social activities can be caused by stress, fatigue, or embarrassment, but it can also be a sign of cognitive decline. If you or a loved one have withdrawn from work or social activities that affect your daily life, you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Some tips on how to help a person with withdrawal from work or social activities are:

  • Encourage them to stay engaged and active and find activities that suit their abilities and preferences, such as hobbies, games, or exercises.
  • Join a support group or a social club and meet people who share similar experiences or interests, such as other people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia or their caregivers.
  • Find activities that give them joy or meaning, such as volunteering, gardening, or music.
Emergency Lifeline Hospice Support
21 Apr

Emergency Lifeline Support

Series Bumper from Chris Loope on Vimeo.

What is Emergency Lifeline Support?

Key Takeaway:

  • Emergency lifeline support is a service that provides immediate help and guidance to people who are facing a crisis, such as suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance abuse, domestic violence, or other mental health issues.
  • Emergency lifeline support is available 24/7, confidential, and free of charge. Hospice Los Angeles is a hospice and palliative care provider in Los Angeles, CA, offering emergency lifeline support to its clients and the community.
  • Hospice Los Angeles’s emergency lifeline support features personalized and compassionate care, quality and safety standards, and a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. You can access Hospice Los Angeles’s emergency lifeline support by phone, online, or in person.Emergency lifeline support is a service that provides immediate help and guidance to people who are facing a crisis, such as suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, substance abuse, domestic violence, or other mental health issues. Emergency lifeline support aims to prevent harm, reduce suffering, and promote coping and recovery.

    The benefits of emergency lifeline support are:

  • 24/7 availability: You can reach out for help anytime, anywhere, and get a timely response from a trained professional who can assist you with your crisis.
  • Confidentiality: You can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment, stigma, or disclosure. Your privacy and anonymity are respected and protected by the service providers.
  • Professional assistance: You can receive expert advice and guidance from crisis counselors with the skills and experience to handle various crises and offer appropriate resources and referrals.

Why Choose Hospice Los Angeles for Emergency Lifeline Support?

Hospice Los Angeles is a hospice and palliative care provider in Los Angeles, CA, offering emergency lifeline support to its clients and the community. Hospice Los Angeles’s mission is to provide compassionate and quality care to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families and to support them in their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.

Hospice Los Angeles’s emergency lifeline support features the following:

Personalized and Compassionate Care

Hospice Los Angeles tailors its emergency lifeline support to each client’s needs and preferences. Hospice Los Angeles understands that every person and every crisis is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Hospice Los Angeles listens to the client’s concerns, respects their choices, and empowers them to make informed decisions about their care.

Hospice Los Angeles also provides compassionate and empathetic care to clients and their loved ones. Hospice Los Angeles recognizes the emotional impact of a crisis and the importance of human connection and support. Hospice Los Angeles’s staff and volunteers are trained to provide emotional support, comfort, and reassurance to the client and their families and to help them cope with their feelings and challenges.

Quality and Safety Standards

Hospice Los Angeles adheres to the highest quality and safety standards for its emergency lifeline support. Hospice Los Angeles follows the best practices and guidelines of the National Association of Crisis Center Directors (NACCD), the American Association of Suicidology (AAS), and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Hospice Los Angeles also undergoes regular audits and evaluations to ensure the quality and effectiveness of its services.

Hospice Los Angeles has received accreditation, certification, and recognition from various organizations, such as:

  • The Joint Commission: The Joint Commission is an independent, not–for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 21,000 healthcare organizations and programs in the United States. The Joint Commission’s accreditation and certification is recognized nationwide as a quality symbol reflecting an organization’s commitment to meeting specific performance standards.
  • The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO): The NHPCO is the largest nonprofit membership organization representing hospice and palliative care programs and professionals in the United States. The NHPCO’s Standards of Practice for Hospice Programs provide a framework for quality hospice care and serve as a benchmark for hospice programs to assess their performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • The California Hospice and Palliative Care Association (CHAPCA): The CHAPCA is a statewide association of hospice and palliative care providers, professionals, and advocates. The CHAPCA’s mission is to promote the growth and development of hospice and palliative care in California and to enhance the quality of life for terminally ill patients and their families.
  • The Better Business Bureau (BBB): The BBB is a nonprofit organization that helps people find and recommend businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. The BBB’s vision is to create an ethical marketplace where buyers and sellers trust each other. The BBB evaluates businesses based on their complaint history, customer reviews, transparency, and other factors.

Holistic and Multidisciplinary Approach

Hospice Los Angeles integrates physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of care in its emergency lifeline support. Hospice Los Angeles believes that a crisis affects not only the mind but also the body, the relationships, and the soul. Hospice Los Angeles addresses the whole person and their well-being and helps them find meaning and purpose in their situation.

Hospice Los Angeles collaborates with other healthcare professionals and community resources to provide comprehensive and coordinated care to clients and their families. Hospice Los Angeles works with the client’s primary care physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, chaplain, and other specialists to ensure the best possible care and outcome. Hospice Los Angeles also connects clients and their families with other supportive services, such as grief counseling, support groups, legal assistance, financial aid, and more.

How do you access Hospice Los Angeles’s Emergency Lifeline Support?

You can access Hospice Los Angeles’s emergency lifeline support by phone, online, or in person. Here are the instructions on how to do so:

Phone

You can call Hospice Los Angeles’s emergency lifeline support at (818) 385-1682. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, you will be greeted by a friendly and caring staff member who will ask you basic questions, such as your name, phone number, and the reason for your call. The staff member will transfer you to a crisis counselor who will listen to your situation, provide emotional support, and offer resources and referrals. The crisis counselor will also follow up to check your progress and well-being.

Online

You can visit Hospice Los Angeles’s website at https://hospicelosangeles.net/ to learn more about its services and programs. Follow Hospice Los Angeles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and news. To use Hospice Los Angeles’s online chat and text service, you must register on the website with your name, email, and phone number. You will then be able to chat or text with a crisis counselor who will provide the same support and assistance as the phone service. You will also be able to rate and review your experience and give feedback to Hospice Los Angeles.

In Person

You can visit Hospice Los Angeles’s office at 15477 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403. The office is open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can make an appointment by calling or emailing Hospice Los Angeles or walk in without an appointment. When you arrive, you will be asked to fill out some forms and provide documents, such as your ID, insurance card, and medical records. You will then be seen by a crisis counselor who will conduct a face-to-face consultation and provide the same support and assistance as the phone and online service.<

5 Apr

National Family Caregiver Month

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Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.

Harriet Tubman

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