The phenomenon known as universal design
So just what is “universal design”? It is an increasingly popular home remodeling request to allow for comfort and safety regardless of the homeowner’s age. Two-thirds of all remodelers have seen an uptick in requests for aging in place remodels. And with the population increasingly going gray with the baby boomer generation, this is projected […]
How to win the tug of war between independence and safety
Most people prefer to age in their own homes, not simply because it feels most familiar and comforting, but because it helps them maintain a feeling of independence. But as eyesight starts to fail and mobility falter, oftentimes a tug of war begins between wishing to fulfill a parent’s desires to remain home and believing […]
The connection between Alzheimer’s and night restlessness
Sundown syndrome—also called sundowning or sunsetting—is a behavior common in people with Alzheimer’s disease. It describes the episodes of confusion, anxiety, agitation, or disorientation that often occur at dusk and into the evening hours. The episodes may last a few hours or throughout the night, which is very draining not only on the caregiver, but […]
Caring for others while sleep deprived = caring for others while drunk
Studies have shown clearly that the mental impairment of someone with extreme sleep deprivation is equal to the mental impairment of someone who is legally drunk. As a family caregiver, it is so important (and sometimes that much harder) to get a healthy amount of sleep each night. Without it, your body doesn’t have a […]
So what’s the big deal about home health care, anyway?
It used to be that when the term “home health care” was brought up, visions of doctors with little black bags ringing your doorbell would spring to mind. But of course home health care nowadays encompasses a wide array of services and benefits to individuals. Did you know that seniors who go to nursing homes […]
Studies report home care is more affordable and promotes more healing than a nursing home
According to the Genworth 2009 Annual Cost of Care Survey, on average, the annual cost to stay in a nursing home in New Hampshire is $90k; the annual cost for home care, however, is $51k. Besides the cost savings, for those that are able to remain in their own homes, it can mean a great […]
Alzheimer’s: The Rising Epidemic
Activities and Communication Tips for a Better Quality of Life (Central New Hampshire – November 4, 2009) – Alzheimer’s Disease has been a hot topic in recent headlines, and for good reason. The progressive, degenerative neurological disease for which there is presently no cure affects an estimated 35 million people worldwide – a 10 percent […]