by Linda Melbardis | Sep 15, 2017 | Articles
Memory problems are common as people age. In fact, we’ve all been there. We walk into a room and forget why we wanted to go into that room. We forget where we put our keys or our glasses. However, there are varying degrees of forgetfulness. Mild forgetfulness is considered a normal part of the aging process. As we age, it can take longer to learn new things, it can be more difficult to remember information and it is common to misplace possessions like keys and glasses. Other types of memory issues can indicate a more serious problem, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. This month, we’re going to look at less serious memory issues – why they can occur and tips for dealing with and avoiding them. Next month, we’ll look at the more serious problems. Let’s start by looking at the two main causes of mild forgetfulness – emotional and health issues. Forgetfulness that is caused by emotional problems, such as stress, anxiety and depression, can often be mistaken for dementia because it can be accompanied by confusion. It can be triggered by losing a spouse, relative or good friend; or even retiring from a long career. Think about someone you know who has lost a spouse. Coping with the loss often leaves them feeling a bit confused, sad, lonely, worried and bored. This confusion and forgetfulness is usually temporary and will go away over time. The love and support from friends and family will help ease these emotions. However, if these feelings continue for more than a year or so, it might be wise to see a doctor...
by Linda Melbardis | Aug 15, 2017 | Uncategorized
It is with a heavy heart that I mention today that my beloved Romeo, a Bichon Frison who joined us at Country Home Assisted Living in January 2004, left us in June 2017. Fortunately, he passed away in his sleep and was never in distress. Romeo will never be forgotten by me or Country Home Assisted Living’s residents and families who enjoyed his ever-uplifting spirit and spunk. He made us all smile in so many different ways. When Romeo first joined us, he was just an itty bitty guy. But he learned the ropes of living in the countryside of Elbert County and at County Home in no time. He was a greeter to anyone who came to our door. He would sit fondly next to us on the couch as we watched TV. And he was always there for the many parties and celebrations held at our assisted living facility in Parker, Colorado. His departure has been difficult. I truly miss my beloved friend. But I know he is on to a new adventure, so to him I say: “This is where we part my friend, and you will run on around the bend. Gone from sight, but not from mind, new pleasures there you will find. I will go on; I will find the strength. Life measures quality, not its length.” There are others who feel the same. Romeo added so much joy to our lives. In fact, I know many feel blessed to have known this special dog with a joyous spirit, who will never ever be forgotten. So long, dear...
by Linda Melbardis | Jul 14, 2017 | Articles
Caregivers can become extremely important in the lives of elderly individuals. In fact, they can make all the difference in the quality of life that is enjoyed by seniors as they age and face health issues. At the same time, the job of a caregiver can be quite taxing and stressful. The stress and emotional rollercoaster ride that comes with care giving are just two reasons why it is so important that caregivers take care of themselves – not just the people they are caring for. As the owner of Country Home Assisted Living in Elbert County, I make sure my caregivers are given the appropriate amount of time off work. During that time, I encourage them to get out of the care-giving mode and do some activities that they really love or enjoy. If you are a caregiver for a loved one, make sure you take time for yourself. You can’t be effective if you spend 24 hours a day, 7 days a week caring for someone – even if it’s your favorite parent or grandparent. Make sure you do things that make you smile, whether it’s reading a book, taking a long bath, watching a funny movie, listening to your favorite music or participating in your favorite sport or hobby. (I’ve got even more ideas on how to reduce your stress in my blog: “5 Tips for Reducing Stress While Caring for Aging Parents.”) During the workday, however, it is much harder to get a break while you are tending to individuals who rely on you. So, I have several suggestions for caregivers who find themselves in...
by Linda Melbardis | Jun 15, 2017 | Articles
When looking for caregivers for your parents or elderly loved ones living at home, there is a lot at stake. Will the caregiver be dependable? Will the caregiver be trustworthy? Will the caregiver be attentive to your loved one’s needs? You can trust that caregivers at assisted living facilities, such as Country Home Assisted Living in Parker, have been properly screened and vetted. But when the job of hiring a person is up to you, it can present a challenge. And it’s crucial to the success of your elderly loved one being able to stay in their home for as long as possible. Last month, I outlined 6 of the characteristics that I look for in the quality caregivers at Country Home. Today, I want to add a couple more comments in hopes that it will help you if you are hiring someone for a stay-at-home situation. First, make sure the caregiver gets along with your elderly family member or friend. Second, make sure that the caregiver gets along with the senior individual’s family. This is crucial. If people are unable to build a friendship and quality relationship, it could develop into many future problems. Here are several other thoughts for finding quality caregivers: Hire someone who can complement the care provided by the family. You want your caregiver to be able to quickly and simply address any issues that come up without adding stress to the family. You also want your caregiver to step up and do the right thing while also being able to diplomatically deal with any family disagreements. You want the caregiver to make sure...
by Linda Melbardis | May 16, 2017 | Articles
When elderly adults need periodic help at home or have moved to an assisted living facility, one thing that should not be overlooked is the quality of the caregivers who will be watching out for them. As the long-time owner of Country Home Assisted Living in Parker, I know the difference a quality caregiver can make in a senior’s life. Caregivers are crucial to the well-being and mental health of those they care for. So, today I’m starting a 3-part series on caregivers. In part 1, I’ll talk about the most important traits you should look for in these people who will be caring for your elderly loved ones or friends. Here are 6 of the characteristics that I look for in the caregivers at Country Home: 1. Dependability. If your parent or elderly loved one needs help, you want the caregivers to be readily available when that help is needed. They need to arrive on time, not bring their own personal issues with them and be ready to jump into action when necessary. They should also be able use sound judgment when providing the type of care that is required in any given situation. 2. Attentiveness and ability to look at the big picture. Families rely on caregivers to be attentive to their loved one’s needs. By paying attention, caregivers will notice when the person they are caring for is undergoing physical or emotional changes. And that’s why they also need to be able to look at the big picture. There are many factors that can be involved as seniors age – from medications and their...
