Tag: Caregiver for Elderly

Reasons Why We Need Caretakers for Elderly at Home

As our parents get older, we may notice that their age begins to catch up with them. Suddenly, the videos they watch seem louder, they take longer to process what you’re saying to them and moving around doesn’t seem as breezy as it once did. At first, things may begin subtly, but over time, you may see that things are becoming quite challenging for them. 

Parents and grandparents are important to us, and we know that we need to care for them, but sometimes, it may not be so easy. They are physically, mentally and emotionally dependent which can often take a toll on the family who undertakes to look after them. In such cases, home healthcare may be a wonderful option for you and here’s why:

  • Caretakers for elderly can monitor their health.

As non-medical professionals, we may not always be alert and attentive to certain symptoms. Confusion for example, in some cases, maybe a medical symptom, but to us, we may not know when to sound the alarm. However, by having a nurse at home, they will be well aware of your parent’s conditions and monitor them closely. 

  • Bathroom & hygiene.

For a patient who struggles with mobility, assistance with going to the washroom and maintaining basic hygiene can be a relief. When a person struggles with their motor skills, oftentimes, hygiene is not fully maintained as they may not be able to clean themselves well. Caregivers for elderly help in changing adult diapers, if required. This is a big support to the family members as they might not be able to drop everything to attend to them each time and as a result, the patient may end up waiting too long to go to the washroom or having a delayed diaper change. 

  • Personalised homecare.

By remaining at home, they have their attendant all to themselves along with all the elements of their comfort like their blanket, their clothes, shower, washroom and all that’s familiar. They are able to set their own routine and they remain in charge of how they live their life, giving them a sense of independence and individuality. 

  • Peace of mind for the family.

For the family, knowing that their parents are in their own home, with their own devices and accessible at all times. There is less to worry about in terms of safety, comfort and knowing that they are always in good hands.

  • Ability to customise the environment.

An important factor is that when the senior citizen is at home, you can customise the environment to fit their needs. Whether it is installing handlebars in the shower, moving around furniture to accommodate a walker, lower shelves and cabinets or carpeting the floor to prevent slipping. Whatever your parent needs, you can arrange for in their home environment giving them the ability to be independent even if they do have home healthcare. 

  • It may be more affordable.

In cases where the patient needs round the clock care, it can be more economical to have a nurse at home administering the care they need rather than institutionalised care. 

Most importantly, you get to keep your loved one near and dear. These memories of their final years are memories that you and your family can really cherish, especially when you have the necessary help to make things easy. 

How To Stay Fit In Winters

The world appears to be a pleasant place as we approach the winter season of the year and as we approach the end of 2021 very soon. The chill of winter brings a grin to many people’s cheeks, as well as some good recollections. While many people like winter, several cities in India have harsh winters that might have negative health consequences. To keep your health at its best, you’ll need to take some extra precautions. The cold and lack of sunlight also impair immunity, leaving people more sensitive to common illnesses such as colds, coughs, and flu.

Ailments that occur during the winter

The following are the most common winter illnesses that people suffer from during the season:

  • Cold symptoms such as runny noses, sneezing, and chest congestion is prevalent in the winter. This viral infection is more common in young children, who may also have a slight temperature.
  • High temperature, sore throat, splitting headache, muscle discomfort, and coughing fits are all symptoms of Influenza, also known as the ‘flu.’
  • As the temperature drops in the winter, your joints become more rigid and painful. People with Arthritis and other orthopaedic diseases suffer from body aches, joint aches, and discomfort as a result of this.
  • Bronchitis is a common respiratory infection that primarily affects children and individuals over 60 years old. The virus causes inflammation of the lungs’ airway branches, resulting in mucus blocking the airways and making breathing difficult. Nasal congestion, low-grade fevers, cough, and wheezing are all symptoms.
  • Pneumonia is a bacterial infection that affects the lungs. You may have a cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Long-term illnesses such as asthma, hypertension, or heart problems can make you more susceptible to pneumonia.

Taking Down the Blues

Follow these health suggestions and include some winter superfoods in your diet to boost your body:

  • Acquire enough sunlight to get your daily dose of vitamin D. This aids in the strengthening of your bones, the improvement of your immune system, and the reduction of mood swings.
  • Create a daily fitness routine and, if necessary, exercise indoors. Strengthening your immune system and maintaining your general health requires at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week.
  • Dates are a fantastic winter snack because they keep your body warm when consumed regularly. They’re low in fat and help your body get the nutrients it needs.
  • Bajra, commonly known as millets, is abundant in fat, protein, and fibre, as well as iron. Consumption regularly helps to energise your body and keep you warm.
  • Spinach, fenugreek, mustard greens, and other dark leafy greens are high in vitamins A, C, K, and other minerals. They not only improve your bone health but also aid in the prevention of winter skin dryness.
  • Almonds and walnuts are dry fruits that keep your body warm while also promoting a healthy nervous system, a healthy heart, and increased insulin sensitivity.
  • Chyawanprash is created with ayurvedic herbs and the benefits of Amla (gooseberry), which supports the body’s natural ability to make red blood cells while also keeping the respiratory passages pure.
  • Warm spices like Cloves and Cinnamon can be used to flavour your food. Cinnamon is a warming spice that promotes blood circulation, tissue regeneration, and anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves have a high level of eugenol, an oil that warms the skin and improves blood circulation.
  • Sesame or til seeds are recognised to aid in the maintenance of a healthy body temperature. They aid in the improvement of energy, digestion, and bone health. Enjoy this winter staple in the shape of Chikki and frying with sesame oil.
  • Ghee is a winter necessity that is high in unsaturated fat and helps to keep the body warm while also providing energy.

Enjoy the cold months by eating nutritious foods and avoiding harmful lifestyle choices. Make the most of the winter months by eating seasonal fruits and vegetables that will naturally enhance your immune system.

WHAT IS A CAREGIVER AND HOW CAN THEY HELP YOU OR A LOVED ONE?

Who comes to your mind when you think about the word ‘caregiver’? It may be a parent, a loved one or someone who you think of a kind, caring and nurturing and you’d be right! A caregiver, however, can also be one who has decided that they are going to be fully dedicated to caring for, looking after, and nurturing those who are ill and ailing – like rare treasures for those in need.

There are many situations where one would look out for amazing caretaker services like a caregiver for elderly or a patient that may have suffered major injury. When anyone suffers from crippling conditions due to illness, disease or injury, great caretaker services can be pivotal. How?

Well, think about an aging loved one. We all want the absolute best for our loved ones, but often, we may not be able to be at their back and call 24/7. We want to give them time, attention, and utmost care, but may have to divide our time between caring for them and keeping up with our other responsibilities. That’s where a caregiver for elderly comes in. A caregiver will always be dedicated to our loved one. They will be there to take care of the patient’s needs immediately without distraction or division of attention. The caregiver will ensure that the patient’s needs are being met round the clock and coordinate and liaise with you so that you’re up to date with all the occurrences. Your loved one will have the opportunity to feel safe, cared for and looked after as they battle their condition.

What makes them absolute gems is the fact that these caretakers have made it their mission to ensure that patients in a vulnerable and needy state are treated with kindness, dignity and are given the quality of life they deserve. They take joy and pride in pampering and showering the patient with the attention and tenderness that they need to remain in a healthy mind space. With the help of caregivers, social interaction and communication is maintained to avoid loneliness and depression, keeping the sick jovial and chirpy despite their difficult circumstances.

So how can the caregiver really help you or your loved one? It’s simple – they can do just about anything. They may help with daily basic tasks like getting dressed or feeding meals, but also more complex things like preparing meals, household chores, maintaining a hygienic environment. The caretaker may also help medically by monitoring the patient’s vitals periodically, coordinating with the attending doctor, keeping wounds clean and ensuring the right medicines are taken at the right time. On the pampering side, caretakers are often great at giving massages to stimulate the muscles, aiding with exercise to build strength, and dressing up the patient in a way that they always feel good and presentable. In short, they’re the jack of all trades that you need them to be.