Category Archives: Caregiver Corner

Caregiver Burnout: Signs, Symptoms and Solutions

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 8, 2013 under Caregiver Corner | 4 Comments to Read

Caregiver Health Statistics Snapshot:

20 hrs: Average hours per week of unpaid in-home care provided by family caregivers
87%: Percentage of caregivers who are not getting enough sleep
91%: Percentage of caregivers whose own health is in decline & who report depression
4-8 years: Average life expectancy decrease for those caring for an Alzheimer’s patient

Chances are, if you’re one of the 75 million adults in North America caring for an elderly, ill, or disabled family member, you’re managing symptoms of depression, high levels of stress and often feeling overwhelmed. For caregivers who are also raising children or holding down a full-time job (known as “The Sandwich Generation”) the combined pressures of working, running a family, and caring for a loved one actually hinders their immune system’s ability to fight disease – leading to a doubled risk of developing chronic illness earlier in life.

Caregiver burnout is real, and it is serious. The last thing a working caregiver needs is to struggle with a decline in their own health – so take a moment to learn the signs and symptoms of burnout, as well as five easy tips to help you recover.

Signs and Symptoms:

Because burnout is not immediately obvious when you’re functioning in a high-stress environment, it’s often noticed first by friends or family. If loved ones have expressed concern about your health, take those concerns seriously.

Ask yourself these questions:

Have you been feeling pessimistic or dissatisfied?
Do you find yourself withdrawing from friends or avoiding social interactions?
Are you emotionally exhausted?
Are you less interested in work or hobbies that you used to enjoy?
Do you find yourself becoming impatient, irritable, or argumentative more often?
Are you increasing your alcohol consumption or prescription medication so that you can relax?
Do you feel like you’re under the weather more often?

If you’ve answered yes to two or more questions, you may be suffering from caregiver burnout. Fortunately, what is done can be undone! Here are 5 tips to help you recover from burnout and to avoid it in the future:

1. Set firm limits. Emotional health is like a bank account. You can only give – or lend – your available funds. If you’re consistently “overdrawn”, be realistic about how much time and energy you can spend on caregiving, and set firm limits. If you find yourself getting “low”, make time to replenish yourself in any of the ways listed below. If you give until there’s nothing left, you not only can’t be a successful caregiver, but your own health could be at risk.

2. Build time for yourself into your schedule. It’s not easy, but try to incorporate “me” time into your schedule. Think about activities you’ve enjoyed in the past, and try to find a way to work them into your routines. Whether it’s listening to music, gardening, cooking, working on a puzzle or walking the dog – try to find time for activities that take your mind off your daily routine.

3. Join a caregiver support group. If you’re reading this article, then you’re already looking for guidance and support. Don’t stop there! There are caregiver support groups everywhere – try calling your local senior center, hospital, doctor’s office or place of worship to inquire about meetings. If you can’t leave the house, there are plenty of caregiver support groups available online. Caregiver support groups offer a safe place to vent your frustrations, share experiences and ask advice from people in similar positions.

4. Start a journal. Whether it’s in a notebook or on a computer, writing can be a therapeutic exercise. Journals provide a private place for you to express your concerns, frustrations and emotions. Not comfortable writing? There are other options – some people turn to creating art, including everything from ink-and-pen drawings to cutouts and craft-paper. Creative projects can be the perfect way to express feelings that can’t be put into words. For more on this technique, see our blog article: Creativity and Self-Care.

5. Take care of your health. No, seriously! Take extra care to maintain a healthy diet, including super foods such as bananas, blueberries, dark chocolate, fish, nuts, eggs, and dark leafy vegetables (yes, we said chocolate!). Exercise for at least 20 minutes, 3 times a week—even a short walk around the neighborhood can help. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night (regular exercise will help you sleep better, too), and visit your doctor for regular check-ups.

Remember, you’re not alone. Reach out for help if you need it; call a friend, family member, or even a volunteer from a senior center or church – there are many resources available if you’re willing to ask! If you can afford it, give yourself time to recharge by hiring a caregiver from a reputable home care agency, or check with your loved one’s insurance carrier to see if they provide part-time outpatient care.

For more caregiver advice, visit our Caregiver Corner blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

Caregiver Survival Tips: Creativity as Self-Care

Posted by Brooke Phillips on February 13, 2013 under Caregiver Corner | Read the First Comment

Caring for the Caregiver

In times of stress, our personal needs tend to go on the back burner. For caregivers, this happens when someone else’s needs have to come first – and this can be over an extended period of time. Without the luxury of time or space, how do we meet our own needs? Is there a way to confront and manage our emotions that doesn’t feel selfish, that doesn’t cost our loved ones the time and attention they deserve?

Paula Swenson says there is, and shows us the way by sharing her own journey. In a beautifully-written guest blog article – “Creativity as Self Care in Times of Extreme Need” – the author and artist shares how she turned to creativity to handle the stress of unexpected caregiving, and then to manage grief at her ultimate loss of a partner.

“Years ago I encountered a quote, ‘The only antidote to destruction is creation’ [which] until this point in my life I had always seen…as an external battle: to put creativity into the world to balance the destruction of war, of prejudice, or injustice. Now as I work, I realize that I am using my creativity to rebuild my destroyed identity, my sense of self that had been shredded by the unexpected loss of my best friend and anchor, my calm port, my home.”

Through an almost instinctive need to create, she reached first for ink and paper – then shifted to other materials – and found that she could express feelings through art that she wasn’t able to express in words. Her meditative creations, some sketched in the long hours of doctor’s visits and surgeries, became a way through.

“With a pocketable notebook and a waterproof-ink pen, I was able to shift my mind out of the frantic cycle of worry and stress that threatened to engulf me,” she writes. “I was able to focus on something tangible, something creative, and in so doing create a calm, ordered space in my mind. That calm and order allowed me to approach the horrifying challenges in something closer to a state of balance.”

You can read more about her journey (and see some of her creations) in this article, “Creativity as Self Care in Times of Extreme Need”. She also offers a free copy of her ebook on self care, “Care and Feeding of the Creative Self“. As for us those of us here at TotalHomeCareSupplies, we’ll be taking some of her tips ourselves. Because as caregivers, sometimes all we need to avoid burnout is a little help finding our way through.

Are you concerned about Caregiver Burnout? Read this article on warning signs and symptoms, as well as tips to help you recover. For more health information and useful tools, please visit our Resources Blog on TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

Care More. Spend Less. Save Now.

Is it Alzheimer’s? 5 Treatable Conditions Mistaken for Alzheimer’s

Posted by Brooke Phillips on February 7, 2013 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Are you concerned about increasing forgetfulness? Is your loved one showing signs of Dementia? If you’re afraid you’re overreacting, you’re not alone: according to the Sun Herald, a recent report looked at nearly 1,000 people with Dementia and found that up to 30% didn’t have Alzheimer’s Disease. Instead, the true culprits were treatable medical conditions that caused Alzheimer’s-like symptoms, including negative reactions to medication.

image courtesy of stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Some treatable medical conditions include:

Vitamin deficiencies. Extremely low levels of folic acid, niacin, or vitamins B-1, B-6 or B-12 can cause Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. Not sure what your vitamin levels are? Ask your doctor for a blood test to rule a vitamin deficiency out! According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, older people are at a higher risk for low levels of B-6 and B-12.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). A lesser-known culprit, bladder infections can cause delirium in the elderly. And when incontinence is part of the diagnosis, signs and symptoms of a bladder or urinary tract infection can be hard to spot. Need to check? Contact your doctor right away if you have any suspicions. Signs and symptoms in the elderly can include sudden onset confusion, loss of appetite, or incontinence. Untreated UTIs can lead to kidney damage or even life-threatening blood infections, so don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you’re concerned.
Underactive Thyroid. 20% of women and 5% of men over 60 suffer from an underactive thyroid gland, which slows down the metabolism to unhealthy levels. This condition, called hypothyroidism, can cause fatigue, weakness, depression and forgetfulness. A simple blood test to check hormone levels is all it takes to rule this condition out.
Depression. Depression in the elderly is a widespread problem, but it’s not normal. Many common symptoms of depression can be part of the aging process, making it difficult to detect and diagnose. Some of the most visible symptoms include fatigue, appetite loss, and trouble sleeping, all of which can increase confusion and forgetfulness. Fortunately, when diagnosed, depression is very treatable – just ask your doctor do a depression evaluation.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). Another underdiagnosed condition, NPH may be difficult to pronounce, but thankfully it’s not as difficult to treat. NPH is an abnormal increase of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which happens when the normal flow is blocked in some way. The elderly are a high-risk group for NPH, although it can happen at any age; causes include head trauma, infection, tumors or surgery, among others. The increased pressure on the brain causes symptoms that mimic Alzheimer’s, including mental impairment or dementia, difficulty walking or slower movements, and impaired bladder control. Once the extra fluid is shunted away, behavior usually return to normal. Only a medical professional can diagnose NPH.

In addition, some medications used to treat depression, anxiety, acid reflux, Parkinson’s disease, allergies and overactive bladder can trigger dementia-like side effects. These drugs block acetylcholine, which Alzheimer’s patients already have in reduced levels. Another medication that could be a culprit is digoxin – which is used to slow your heart rate if you have atrial fibrillation or heart failure. If you notice a change in behavior shortly after starting a new medicine regimen, call your doctor immediately.

For more information on Alzheimer’s signs and symptoms, visit the Alzheimer’s Association: http://www.alz.org/.

Is There Humor in Caregiving? That “Depends”…

Posted by Brooke Phillips on February 6, 2013 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Photo by Sacha Goldberger

Finding Humor in Caregiving

There’s no doubt about it: caregiving is stressful – and one of the best ways any of us can deal with this stress is through humor. Renowned French photographer (and caregiver) Sacha Goldberger brings humor to caregiving through a collection of wild, wacky and downright hilarious photos of his grandmother.

“In a society where youth is the supreme value; where wrinkles have to be camouflaged; where old people are hidden as soon as they become cumbersome, where, for lack of time or desire, it is easier to put our elders in hospices rather than take care of them, I wanted to show that happiness in aging was also possible,” writes Sacha Goldberger in his book Mamika: My Mighty Little Grandmother.

Photo by Sacha Goldberger

And through costumes and spectacular photography, Mr. Goldberger does just that. His grandmother’s personality and wicked sense of humor shine through a hilarous collection of photos. Read more about Sacha Goldberger and his grandmother in this recent New York Times article: http://nyti.ms/W8m6xC.

Looking for more photos? We recommend Sasha Goldberger’s website: www.sachabada.com.

We hope you enjoy these as much as we did!

Family Caregiving: The Universal Occupation of 65 Million Americans

Posted by Gina Flores on June 6, 2012 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Family caregivers are a becoming a majority in our society, especially considering the boom in the aging population. Friends in Action of Boise, Idaho posted this 1-minute YouTube video to promote awareness and provide resources for family caregivers.

The Family Caregiving – The Universal Occupation You Tube video highlights these facts about family caregiving:

10,000 people turn 65 every day. Their care will land on family, who as a whole provide 37 billion hours of unpaid care every year
This care is in addition to raising children of their own, working full time and running a home
Resources are available for family caregivers, who need support and a helping hand

TotalHomeCareSupplies.com knows first hand about the demands of family caregiving. Our customers who manage the home medical supply needs of aging parents tell us it’s very convenient to have home delivery and an online resource to buy home care medical supplies in bulk to save time and money. Total Home Care Supplies offers discounted prices on adult diapers and incontinence products, ostomy supplies, catheters, wound care and diabetes testing supplies.

We’re happy and honored to be a resource to the caregiving community, to allow family caregivers more time to spend on the people they love.

Care More. Spend Less. Save Now. | TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Memorial Day Savings on Home Medical Supplies at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Posted by Gina Flores on May 25, 2012 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

TotalHomeCareSupplies.com Coupon

If you’re looking to save money on your home medical supplies, TotalHomeCareSupplies.com can help!

In honor of Memorial Day, we’re offering an extra discount on our already low prices for every home medical need from incontinence supplies to ostomy bags to condom catheters. At Total Home Care Supplies you’ll find all your favorite brand names including Prevail, Depend, Hollister, ConvaTec, Coloplast and more! From May 25, 2012 to May 29, 2012, we invite you to take 10% off your orders using promo code: HONOR at check-out.

Wishing you a safe and enjoyable holiday doing the things you love with the people you love.

Care More. Spend Less. Save Now at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Announces Free Educational Conference For Caregivers| New York, May 18, 2012

Posted by Gina Flores on May 3, 2012 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

This just in from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA):

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to host a free educational conference for caregiver in New York on May 18, 2012. Entertainer David Cassidy, Nutrition Expert Joy Bauer will address caregivers

NEW YORK, NY—As government leaders increasingly acknowledge the need for greater education about Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will provide an understanding of the disease and practical strategies to handle daily challenges at a free, care-focused conference on May 18 in New York City.

The all-day “Five Boroughs Concepts in Care Conference” at the Crowne Plaza Hotel-Times Square will include separate sessions specifically for people with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, family caregivers and healthcare professionals.

Award-winning entertainer and multi-platinum recording artist David Cassidy, well-known for starring in TV’s “The Partridge Family” and numerous roles on other TV shows and Broadway, will share “A Son’s Story” as the keynote luncheon speaker. Cassidy’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease seven years ago, and he has since become a spokesperson and activist for the cause.

The conference will also feature Joy Bauer, nutrition and health expert for the “Today” show and a best-selling author, who will discuss smart lifestyle choices for brain health.

Also on the agenda is Teepa Snow, a renowned dementia care expert whose engaging presentations are packed with practical tips. Snow will present strategies to manage challenging behaviors, and to ensure better communication and safety.

Among other experts, Max Rudansky, M.D., chief of neurology at Huntington Hospital in Huntington, NY, will present a medical update on Alzheimer’s disease.

It is estimated that more than 450,000 New Yorkers have Alzheimer’s disease, according to a report by the New York State Coordinating Council for Services Related to Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias. In the report, council members emphasized that “one of the greatest challenges is debunking myths and demystifying Alzheimer’s disease,” and identified the immediate need to provide accurate information and outreach to the public and healthcare professionals.

The conference, which takes place from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., will also include an exhibit hall and interactive activities.

Addressing the emotional toll of dementia, attendees will participate in a candle lighting ceremony to pay tribute to individuals with the disease. Also, AFA will display about 40 heartfelt panels from its AFA Quilt to Remember, the nation’s first large-scale quilt that portrays life stories of people affected by the brain disorder.

Focusing on symptoms of the disease, AFA will offer confidential memory screenings—a non-diagnostic tool that can signal a need for further evaluation; and the Virtual Dementia Tour, an interactive tool developed by Second Wind Dreams that helps people better understand what it feels like to have dementia.

The conference will also include breakfast and lunch, as well as respite care for individuals with dementia who need supervision while their family members attend the conference.

For more information call 866.232.8484

TotalHomeCareSupplies.com | Care More. Spend Less. Save Now.

Book Review: When Mom And Dad Need Help

Posted by Gina Flores on April 6, 2012 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

BECOME THE BEST ADVOCATE FOR YOUR LOVED ONE!

Mike Campbell is the author of a new book called “When Mom and Dad Need Help” designed to the adult child work together with the aging parent to begin planning the very best solution to senior care. Mike has been an advisor to the senior housing and care industry for over 18 years. Campbell now wants to share the knowledge he’s gained over the years and become a dedicated consumer advocate for those families looking to find quality long-term care options for their loved ones by educating them and giving them a plan.

Reviews:

“For those caring for aging parents and loved ones this book is a must read. With the multiple choices and complexities associated with senior care health care options, it is imperative that caregivers become educated consumers. This book is a comprehensive resource that will give you the education and information you need to be the best advocate for your loved one as possible.” -Lisa F., LNHA, Licensed Nursing Home Administrator

“This is an excellent “how to” reference book on options for caring for a parent. I especially appreciated the suggested language on how to have those difficult conversations.” -Elizabeth P. MSN, CNS, FPCN

For more information on the author and how to order When Mom And Dad Need Help, go to http://iffenwen.com/

For affordable home medical supplies shipped directly to mom or dad, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Help For New Caregivers: First Steps

Posted by Gina Flores on January 20, 2012 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Caring for a loved one with a chronic medical condition as new caregiver can be overwhelming. Taking advantage of caregiver resources and establishing a comfortable routine are critical to getting off to a good start. The National Family Caregiver Alliance recommends these five steps for new caregivers.

• Understand the diagnosis. Learning about a family member’s diagnosis helps caregivers gain an understanding of the disease and its progression in order to make necessary plans for treatment and care.

• Discuss finances and healthcare wishes. While it can be difficult to have these conversations, setting up Durable Powers of Attorney for finances and healthcare can help relieve anxiety and better prepare for the future.

• Invite family and close friends to come together and discuss the care plan. A meeting of this type gives the caregiver the opportunity to share needs, the care plan and ask others for assistance from respite care to meal planning.

• Take advantage of community resources such as Meals on Wheels and adult day programs. These resources provide relief from the routine and offer a break. Seek out caregiver educational programs to increase knowledge and build confidence.

• Find support. The most important thing is for caregivers to not become isolated as they take on more responsibility and as social life moves into the background. Online and in-person groups can be very helpful in connecting with others in the same circumstances. Caregivers can call Family Caregiver Alliance at (800) 445-8106 to learn about local services, or visit caregiver.org and click on “Family Care Navigator.”