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Community Resource: National Association of Area Agencies on Aging

July 29, 2021 By Logan Aitken

The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, or the n4a, is a membership association. It represents America’s national network of 622 Area Agencies on Aging. The n4a also works as a voice advocating for aging programs at the nation’s capital.

The goal of the n4a is to build a society that values and supports people as they age. The association’s mission is to help build the capacity of its members so they can help older adults and people with disabilities live their best lives, make their own choices in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

Aging Services

Caregivers

Daughter Puts Arm Around Mother While Looking At Flowers

The n4a recognizes how vital caregivers are. The n4a states that an estimated 65.7 million Americans provide for an older adult, or someone living with illness or disability. The study also mentioned that the value of unpaid caregiving has reached $522 billion annually. 

In most cases, older adults would rather stay in their own homes and communities for as long as they can. This means other family members have to step up and take care of them as well as their own families. Caregiving can be mentally, physically, and financially exhausting.

The n4a provides direct support to caregivers through the National Family Caregiver Support Program. Contact your local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) to learn more about aging services. 

Elder Justice

Older Adult Reads Off Credit Card Over The Phone

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers elder abuse a major public health problem. Elder abuse can come in a variety of ways. Whether it is financial abuse, physical abuse, mental abuse, or neglect. 

The n4a helps combat elder abuse through the Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). 98 percent of the agencies across the country have at least one service or program designed to help address elder abuse. The programs include community education and training, public awareness campaigns, elder abuse prevention coalitions, and more. AAAs also provide support in the form of legal help related to guardianship, longer-term care, etc. 

Healthy Aging 

Two Older Adults Jog On A Dirt Path In The Forest

Chronic health conditions come with the aging process. Learning how to manage and combat these conditions is vital for aging people’s physical and mental well-being. The AAAs offer programs to help older adults stay active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. 

The AAA has access to resources through the Older Americans Act to create and implement programs to help older people with chronic health conditions. Some of the programs include:

  • Chronic Disease Self-Management
  • A Matter of Balance
  • Diabetes Self Management 
  • Tai Chi Moving for better balance

Contact your closest AAA to see what programs are available to you

Health Insurance Assistance

Pen And Stethoscope Lay On Top Of Medicare Enrollment Form

Navigating health insurance is rarely easy, most times it is complex and can get confusing fast. Because of this issue, the federal government provides a service that helps consumers navigate and make decisions about Medicare. This organization is called the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

A majority of AAAs serves as the local SHIP. SHIP counselors work one on one with clients to help them make decisions that make the most sense for them. Understanding health insurance empowers older adults to make better decisions that will give them the independence and care that they need. 

575-513-9139 Dylan Penson Transportation

Older Woman Smiles As She Drives

As people age, they may modify their driving habits or stop driving altogether.

This prevents them from feeling independent and taking care of their health. Transportation is still needed to go grocery shopping, go to doctor’s appointments, and stay social. 

AAAs recognize that this is an issue. AAAs help plan and manage transportation for their local older adults and people with disabilities. Contact your local AAA for transportation options. 

N4a Initiatives

The n4a backs numerous initiatives that benefit and protect older adults. Here are few initiatives the n4a has taken and support:

Financial Exploitation

Financial exploitation is prevalent amongst older adults. This form of abuse is becoming the fastest-growing tuple of elder abuse. To combat this, the n4a has partnered with Wells Fargo to create the Wells Fargo Advisors on the Answers on Aging Financial Exploitation initiative. This program helps spread awareness and helps provide older adults and caregivers with resources and tools to avoid becoming a target of financial scams.

Pharmacy Benefits

Pharmacist Scans Medication

The n4a partnered with Walgreens to implement an initiative that provides Medicare Counselors and consumers with resources to help them get the most out of their Medicare pharmacy benefits. 

Medicare & Benefits Enrollment 

Since its inception, the n4a has supported and done extensive work to help older adults with Medicare enrollment. Learn more about the n4a’s Medicare programs here.

To learn more about the n4a’s initiatives and what resources it has to offer visit their website. For additional resources visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

June 30, 2021 By Logan Aitken

It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the information that is on the internet. Not to mention how much time it takes to find the information you are looking for. Growing older comes with change, which means new questions that need answers. 

You may find yourself searching for information about retirement or how to save for retirement. A loved one could be scouring the internet for caregiver resources. No matter what your question or needs are, there is one organization that can help get you the answers and resources you need.

The American Association of Retired Persons or AARP is a nonprofit organization that focuses on assisting retired people in their next stage of life. AARP provides people 50 and older with numerous resources and assistance with things they may need. From travel, health, finances, to entertainment, the AARP can help. 

Why become a member of the American Association of Retired Persons?

Being a member of AARP gives you full access to the perks and resources the organization has to offer. 

Member Resources

  • Brain Health

The brain is a complex organ. It controls all the aspects of day-to-day life. Brain health should be a priority at any age. The AARP understands the importance of brain health which is why it offers a course called “Staying Sharp”. This course educates its users about the functions of the brain. It also accesses your brain health, and various activities to improve brain health. 

  • Family Caregiving
Mother And Daughter Share a Smile And A Sweet Treat

Having a family member take care of a loved one can be hard for all parties involved.  AARP offers helpful resources to all parties. There are hundreds of articles on AARP’s website that cover a variety of caregiving topics. Some articles tackle the financial burden of family caregiving, and some discuss how to deal with caregiver burnout. Whatever the topic is, AARP is a helpful resource.

  • Work & Jobs

Finding a job at any age can be a struggle. Making a career change can be a struggle. Starting and running a small business can also be a struggle. AARP offers a variety of helpful articles to help you with these topics. 

  • Scams & Fraud
Edge Of Computer Shows A Fraud Prevention Button Below the Return Key

In the age of technology scams and fraud run rampant. Whether it is by telephone, email, or through a pop-up message, being on alert to scams is essential. AARP stays up to date on different scams so you can be aware. Sign up for the free WatchDog Alerts to get the latest updates about scams, emailed to users biweekly. AARP also offers a free helpline if you or a loved one suspect a scam.

Retirement

 How much money do you need to retire? Can I start saving for retirement at 50? Whether you are ready to retire or are just starting to save, AARP can answer your questions. 

  • Social Security
A Pen Hovers Over A Social Security Benefits Application Form

Figuring out social security can be a daunting task. The social security office can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know what kind of benefits you are eligible for. AARP provides resources that can help people learn more about social security and what kind of benefits they can receive. 

  • Home & Family 
Couple Smiles Down At A Tablet

Looking to get back into the dating game, or maybe how to work all the new apps coming out? AARP has helpful blogs that can help make your home and family life the best it can be. 

  • Politics and Society

Check out AARP’s politics and society section to stay up to date on politics that affect your daily life. From new healthcare legislation, to politician’s agendas when it comes to older Americans. 

  • Entertainment & Travel
Couple Stands On Beach And Looks Out At The Ocean

Growing older doesn’t mean the adventure has to stop, it is only the beginning! AARP has entertainment and travel ideas for everyone. Not keen on flying? No worries, there are plenty of road trip ideas. So whether you want to take a tropical cruise or take a day trip to a local museum, you can find the perfect plan on AARP. 

Member Benefits 

If you decide to become an AARP member you will be eligible for member benefits. AARP has partnered with a number of businesses to get its members discounts for a variety of things, including: 

  • Health & Wellness
Woman Stands At Cash Register And Receives Medication From Pharmacist

Get discounts on eyeglasses, pharmacy discount cards, discounts on listening products, and more. 

  • Travel

AARP has travel benefits for car rentals, cruises, hotels, and much more. 

  • Finances
Man Looks At Computer As He Figures Out His Finances

Members have access to retirement resources, fraud prevention, and financial planning programs through AARP. 

  • Insurance

AARP offers its members a variety of insurance options through various insurance companies. 

  • Gas & Auto Insurances

Get discounts on oil changes, car safety resources and browse AARP’s own courses and programs. 

  • Restaurants
Couple Shares A Cup Of Coffee Outside Café

Last but not least AARP members can get a discount at a number of restaurants listed here. 

As you move into this new stage of life, AARP is here to help. Visit the AARP website to learn more about the resources it offers. For additional resources visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: Memory Matters Utah/Nevada

March 29, 2021 By Logan Aitken

Acting as a caregiver for an individual with dementia is a daunting task. Every day, you will experience challenges, most of which you’ve never faced before. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, especially if you don’t have people around you who truly understand the role you’re playing.

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is an organization working to help those experiencing dementia, and their caregivers. Serving the communities of southern Utah and southeastern Nevada, this nonprofit strives to provide education and support. 

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is led by individuals with a true passion for helping those navigating the difficult path of dementia, and many of its staff members have acted as caregivers themselves. 

Two People On A Beach Overlooking The Water

Services For Individuals With Dementia

Early Stage Memory Loss Series

The Early Stage Memory Loss Series is a 10-week course. It was created to serve as an educational resource for both those in the early stages of dementia as well as their primary care partner. 

The series is offered twice a year, beginning in February and September. Each class covers topics such as financial preparation, stress management, and even brain training exercises. 

A donation of $25 is suggested, but costs are covered for those unable to afford the series on their own. For a sample of past sessions, visit their website.

A Senior Person Holding A Colorful Stress Ball

Memory Activity Club

The Memory Activity Club is a group for those in moderate stages of dementia. Through meaningful activities related to topics such as art, music, and poetry, attendees strive to improve their cognitive abilities. These activities exercise the brain without feeling like work.

Apart from working on cognitive function, those with dementia also have the opportunity to build friendships with individuals who face the same challenges they do. Many caregivers have found their loved one to have a positive change in outlook and attitude from regular meeting attendance.

The Memory Activity Club doesn’t just benefit those with dementia, however. It also offers a reprieve to caregivers taking care of their loved one. Meetings are four hours long and include snacks, lunch, and activities. They’re held three days a week and cost $35 per class. 

Services For Caregivers

Private Caregiver Consultations

Memory Matters Utah/Nevada offers two types of consultations: Memory testing consultations and care consultations.

Memory testing consultations offer clients a cognitive assessment. Once completed, the results can be used to talk with your loved one’s doctor. 

Care consultations are open to both caregivers as well as other family members. Topics such as coping, strategies, and options for care may be discussed. The consultant can assist you in creating a care plan for your loved one, and they can also help you adjust this plan as the disease progresses.

Kitchen Table Set

Support Groups

A variety of support groups for caregivers are held in southern Utah and Nevada. Currently, support groups are active in St. George, Kanab, New Harmony, and Mesquite. These groups are held at various times and days of the week, and they repeat either weekly, monthly, or quarterly.

These groups are free and open to the public. View the support group calendar on their website.

Frontal-Temporal Dementia Support Group

In collaboration with the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), Memory Matters Utah/Nevada holds a quarterly support group helpful for those caring for someone with frontal-temporal dementia. This group meets in the St. George area and is free to the public. It is facilitated by an individual with personal caretaking experience of a loved one with FTD.

Back Of Woman's Head While On Phone

Good Morning Sunshine Telephone Reassurance Program

The Good Morning Sunshine Telephone Reassurance Program gives caregivers who live alone extra peace of mind. For these individuals, they are their loved one’s sole lifeline. If something happens to them, the person they care for could be in danger.

The program connects caregivers to trained volunteers who call them each day at a convenient time. If the caregiver doesn’t answer or if there is an immediate need, their emergency contact will be sent to check on them.

Whether it’s the person experiencing the effects of dementia or the person taking care of them, all involved need educational and emotional support. Memory Matters Utah/Nevada is an excellent source of this support for those in southern Utah and southeast Nevada. For more organizations, you may find helpful, visit our community resources page.

Community Resource: The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM)

February 25, 2021 By Logan Aitken

Growing older can be a time of significant transition. A time that results in having to wade through unknown territory, some of which may relate to a change in your loved one’s living situation. The good news is that there are now organizations dedicated to helping this challenging time be, well, a little less challenging. One of these is the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM).

Senior man sitting alone on a bench

Who are senior move managers?

Senior Move Managers are professionals who assist in the downsizing or moving process for those who are elderly. They specialize in minimizing the moving trauma that plagues both those who are being moved and family members or loved ones involved in the moving process. In addition to addressing the emotional aspects of change, they also assist with the logistics.

When might you need a senior move manager?

There are many situations in which having a senior move manager can make a world of difference, and not all of them even involve changing homes. Just a few examples in which senior move management may be useful include:

  • Planning and coordinating a move to a smaller home or an assisted living facility. This includes hiring movers in addition to things like packing and unpacking boxes.
  • Downsizing possessions so a loved one can more easily move in with their family.
  • Evaluating and subsequently reducing home safety hazards.
Senior woman washing a vegetable

Why are senior move managers important?

Just think about all the stress moving can bring when you’re young. Then consider how much more stressful this transition can be when the individual who’s moving has accumulated a lifetime of possessions, didn’t choose to move, or feels as though they’re losing their independence.

Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS) is something that has been found to affect people of all ages as a result of a move, including the elderly. RSS can negatively affect those in all moving situations, whether they’re transitioning to an assisted living facility or just a smaller, more manageable home. Those who encounter RSS may experience symptoms such as exhaustion, anxiety, or depression.

Minimizing RSS can be accomplished by utilizing senior move managers with a background in the following:

  • Involving the senior in decisions that will affect where they live and the move to this new location.
  • Maintaining the senior’s daily routine as much as possible throughout the process.
  • Ensuring the senior is comfortable and safe in their new space.
A window with black shutters on a house

Why not take on the work yourself?

You may be asking, why do I need to hire someone to take on these tasks? Why can’t I just do them myself?

Well, there are a few things that may hinder your ability to do so, both practically and emotionally:

  • Often, family members are geographically dispersed across the country or even across the world. It doesn’t necessarily make financial (or any other type of) sense to relocate to your elderly family member’s area to take care of the tasks associated with downsizing or with a move.
  • A lifetime of belongings is not easily sorted through. Older adults have often collected countless sentimental items throughout the years. Items that hold meaning to you as well. It can be helpful to have an unbiased individual assist your family member in sorting through cherished memories.
  • You may be an older adult yourself. If this is the case, you might not have the physical stamina needed to pack and unpack a houseful of belongings. Even if you’re a young spring chicken, you may not have the time or energy! Moving is difficult work.
An elderly woman looking out of a window

Why should you utilize the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM)?

The NASMM is a premier membership organization for senior move managers. Members must meet a strict set of requirements that ensure you don’t have to spend copious amounts of time filtering through potential candidates.

The NASMM is also an incredible knowledge base surrounding senior move management. They have resources such as a curated list of questions to ask when hiring a manager, a comprehensive guide to “rightsizing” and relocation, and a search tool you can use to find senior move managers in your area. To learn more about all things senior move management, visit their website. 

For additional organizations, we think you may find helpful during this time of transition, visit our community resources page.

Senior Depression: Why Seasonal Depression Happens Around The Holidays

December 16, 2020 By Logan Aitken

Have you noticed a sadness in your loved one in the winter? Have they gained weight or been sleeping more than normal? Have you felt them pull away, expressing their desire to be alone?

Seasonal depression in seniors happens and is serious. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms while differentiating from the much more common occurrence of seasonal blues. Read on to learn how to do so.

How to Recognize Seasonal Depression

Seasonal Blues vs Seasonal Depression

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression corresponding to a particular time of the year. For most people, symptoms appear in the fall and continue through the winter. 

This type of depression is different from the common sadness many of us feel during this time. You may experience a change of mood in the winter caused by the weather being colder and the days being shorter. This phenomenon has been dubbed seasonal blues or winter blues.

As someone experiencing seasonal blues, it’s common to feel lethargic and gloomy. However, if these feelings hinder your ability to function regularly, you may be experiencing seasonal depression.

Symptoms of Seasonal Depression

To help you spot signs of depression, we’ve gathered some common ones. Those with SAD may or may not experience all of the following symptoms:

  • Feelings of sadness for most of the day and on most days
  • Lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Having trouble going to sleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much
  • Feeling fatigued or irritable
  • Experiencing feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, or guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Frequent thoughts about suicide or death

For SAD associated with the winter months, it’s common to see the following:

  • Oversleeping
  • Overeating leading to weight gain
  • A desire to be alone

Causes of Seasonal Depression

Environmental Factors

While environmental circumstances are not a direct cause of SAD, they build a foundation from which depression can result. Furthermore, the effects of these environmental factors can be intensified around the holidays. For seniors, these include the following:

  • Deceased family and friends
  • No longer being near family or friends
  • Loss of independence and having to rely on others to take care of basic needs
  • Financial stress

Geographic Location

Seasonal depression is experienced more commonly by individuals living further north. This is due to the days being shorter, resulting in fewer daylight hours. Additionally, the colder it is, the less likely one is to go outside to spend time in the sun.

Biological Causes

The scientific explanation for seasonal depression is not yet fully comprehended. However, studies have uncovered some information that gives us a glimpse into its biological causes.

Those with SAD may experience reduced serotonin activity. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for helping to regulate mood.

Studies have also found that those with SAD may produce more melatonin than is typical. This hormone normally assists in maintaining sleep cycles, although too much can cause feelings of lethargy or sleepiness.

Disruption in either serotonin or melatonin can alter body rhythms, leaving affected individuals without a way to properly readjust. This can cause many of the behavioral and mood changes associated with seasonal depression.

How Seasonal Depression is Treated

Light Therapy

Remember how we discussed the fact that diminished daylight hours can play a role in causing SAD? One way this problem can be addressed is by participating in light therapy. This treatment exposes the individual to bright light every day in an effort to make up for those lost daylight hours. The light is created by special bulbs that mimic the sun’s rays.

Typically, the person will sit in front of a bright light box every day for between 30 to 45 minutes. It’s important this is done first thing in the morning, as this helps maintain the body’s regular cycle.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be useful for identifying and altering unpleasant emotions or thoughts as well as the behaviors associated with them. This type of therapy can assist with the following:

  • Monitoring and recognizing emotions
  • Identifying strategies for dealing with stress
  • Determining a plan of action for periods in which the person recognizes their own negative feelings

Medication

Some individuals experience positive results by taking antidepressants. If you think this may be the right solution, talk with your loved one’s doctor. If they agree, you should also discuss which medication should be taken to limit side effects and what time of the year to begin taking medication.

How To Prevent And Monitor Seasonal Depression In Seniors

Use the Geriatric Depression Scale

The Geriatric Depression Scale is a 15-question self-report that can be used to screen seniors for depression. You can utilize the questions in conversation with your loved one to detect symptoms early on.

Plan Outings

Planning fun events in the winter can help seniors associate this time with positivity rather than dread or sadness. Additionally, encouraging movement such as walking will keep them physically active. Outings that get the person into sunlight may also make a significant impact on their well-being.

Give Them the Opportunity to Talk

Simply spending time talking with an individual gives them the opportunity to discuss how they’re feeling. 

You should also understand that your loved ones may not feel comfortable talking with you if they have concerns about their mental health. Ensure they have someone to speak with, even if it’s not you. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s phone number is 800-273-8255, and there are alternative options for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Let them know this resource is available 24/7.

Why Seasonal Depression Happens Around The Holidays

In summary, seasonal depression can result from the days becoming colder and shorter. However, this phenomenon is much more serious than the seasonal blues many of us feel during this time. To determine the difference, pay attention to whether these feelings are disrupting the daily life of your loved one.

If the person does have seasonal depression, there are various treatment options including light therapy, psychotherapy, and medication. To prevent and monitor seasonal depression, utilize depression rating tools in your conversations, plan fun outings, and give them the opportunity to express their feelings.

If you have questions about seasonal depression or believe your loved one may be experiencing it, reach out to us. While navigating this path may seem intimidating or scary at first, we’re here to support you.

How Do I Determine If I Need Home Care Services?

October 15, 2020 By Logan Aitken

Determining whether to utilize a home care service can be a difficult decision. There are many factors to think about when deciding if this is the right choice for you. To make this decision a little easier, we came up with a list of reasons why home care services can be beneficial to you or a loved one.

When Everyday Tasks Start Becoming Difficult

Everyday tasks and housework shouldn’t be a burden. If it is becoming an issue to complete chores around the house, it might be time to look into home care services. At Kind Hearts Senior Care, our team provides help with light housework, such as sweeping, dusting, vacuuming, laundry, and much more. Not being able to maintain a clean household could result in an unsanitary and dangerous environment.

Family And Friends Are Taking Time Out Of Their Schedule To Make Sure You’re Ok

It is important to keep your loved ones close, but relying on them to always take care of you can put a strain on your relationship. At Kind Heart Senior Care, we offer an online portal for families to receive daily updates from their most recent at-home care service. This will allow family members to keep updated and well-informed throughout our visits. An at-home care service will allow a more stress-free environment for you and your family members.

Regularly Falling Or Difficulty Walking

Safety should be a top priority when it comes to debating whether you are ready for home care services. If falling or difficulty walking is a recurring issue, it might be a sign that extra help is needed. At-home care services provide extra help around the house to prevent falling or exhaustion. It is important to be safe with daily activities and not overworked. If falling or walking is becoming a problem, it might be time to look into home care services.

Forgetting To Take Medication 

For most, medication is a very important part of a daily routine and it is important to remember when to take it. With at-home care services, forgetting to take medications will not be a problem. Our staff sets reminders when it’s time to take medication and the specific medication you need to take. According to Aging Care, 55% of the elderly don’t take their medication according to doctor’s orders. Through Kind Hearts Senior Care, we make sure medication is taken on time and the right amount of medication prescribed.

Difficulty Running Errands And/Or Driving

Home care may be needed if it is unsafe to get behind the wheel for simple errands. If easy errands, like going to the grocery store or driving to appointments, start becoming a problem, it is best to start looking into home care services. Our services provide transportation to and from errands, as well as running them if needed. 

If you feel that the time is right for you or a loved one to have home care services, contact us today, or visit our website for more information.

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