Take time during the holidays to visit elderly friends and relatives who live alone or in nursing homes. Although the holidays emphasize family, festivities and fun, many people experience increased loneliness and isolation. However, you can add some joy to their...
General
Don’t avoid talking with an aging parent about their living situation
Talking with our elderly parents about their living situations and the possible need for change is not always easy. A successful conversation depends on the relationship you have with your parent, as well, of course, as on the parent’s mental, emotional and physical...
Does your aging loved one have a health directive?
As we age, there is a possibility that our mental faculties will diminish. Although it can be challenging to think about, there are legal safety measures to protect yourself and your loved ones before they ever have to face life issues in a nursing home, an assisted...
Some tips for assessing a nursing home facility
It is important for your loved one that you spend a large amount of time researching the nursing home before choosing the one to send him or her to. Do not judge the nursing home on the basis of a guided tour or the nice furniture or attractive physical features of...
Signs of elder abuse or neglect
Emotional abuse may include insults, humiliation, threats, and attempts to frighten the resident; it can also be a crime of omission, as when the resident is ignored, disregarded, and/or isolated against his or her will. Neglect can consist of withholding food, water,...
Researching a nursing home ahead of time can prevent heartache later
It is vital for your family member that you spend a considerable amount of time researching the nursing home before you make a final decision. Do not judge the nursing home solely on the basis of a guided tour or the nice furniture or attractive physical features of...
Medical Issues in Nursing Homes
Nursing home patients may find themselves subject to dozens of adverse conditions through no fault of their own: bed injuries, pressure ulcers, falls, fractures, malnutrition and dehydration are some of the more prominent injuries. BED INJURIES Between January 1,...
Tips to assess nursing home facilities
It is important for your loved one that you spend a large amount of time researching the nursing home before choosing the one to send him or her to. Do not judge the nursing home on the basis of a guided tour or the nice furniture or attractive physical features of...
Caregiving and caregiver stress
The term “caregiver” refers to anyone who routinely helps others who are limited by chronic conditions. “Formal caregivers” are volunteers or paid employees connected to the social service or health care systems. The term “informal caregiver” refers to family members...
Recent statistics reveal some disturbing trends in nursing home care
91% of nursing homes lack adequate staff to properly care for patients 36% of nursing homes have been cited for violation of elder abuse laws In 2010, there were 5,961,568 elderly abuse cases reported in the U.S. Not all of these are attributed to nursing homes, but...
