Senior Safety: 7 Medication Management Tips

It can be challenging for our aging loved ones to remember if and when they’ve taken their medication, especially if they have several prescriptions and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs at home. But taking medication at the right times, in the right doses, is essential for seniors’ health and wellness.

Your loved one may want to stay in control of their medications, but they might be worried about keeping track of everything. With our seven medication management tips, you can help them stay safe, healthy, and informed.

1. Keep all medications in one place.

Research shows that 87 percent of older adults take one prescription drug, 36 percent use five or more medications, and 38 percent take OTC drugs. Keeping track of all these medications may be difficult for your family member, especially if their pill bottles are scattered throughout the house.

But putting all your loved one’s medicine and supplements in one place (like their nightstand or kitchen counter) can help them feel less overwhelmed. Try gathering all their pill bottles into a clear storage bin or gallon-sized plastic bag. Along with keeping their medications organized, your family member will know at a glance what they’re taking.

2. Store all medicine and supplements properly.

Although many bathrooms have a medicine cabinet above the sink, that’s actually not a great place for your loved one’s pill bottles. Medications should typically be stored in a dry, room-temperature spot, not in a place prone to moisture and heat (like a bathroom). But your family member’s nightstand or kitchen counter are safe storage options.

For any prescriptions that require specific storage, like refrigerating insulin or eye drops, just follow instructions from your loved one’s doctor and pharmacist. Finally, make sure you keep all their medication away from pets and children, even if the bottles have childproof caps.

3. Maintain a current list of their medications.

Knowing exactly which medications your loved one is taking will help them avoid negative drug interactions (unexpected side effects). An excellent way to do this is by creating a record of their medicines and updating it when necessary.

This medication list should include:

• Each prescription, OTC medication, and supplement your loved one takes
• How often they take each item
• Dosages for each drug
• Contact information for the healthcare provider(s) who prescribed each medication
• Symptoms each item is supposed to treat
• Whether each drug is for short-term or long-term use

You’ll also want to review this list of medications with your loved one’s doctor every so often. This is a great time to let the doctor know how the medicine is working for your family member, and mention any side effects or concerns they’re experiencing.

4. Pre-sort their medicine for the week.

Organizing your loved one’s medication ahead of time lets them feel prepared for which supplements, prescriptions, and medicines they’ll take throughout the week. You can do this with a seven-day pill organizer, preferably one with compartments for different times and days. This is helpful if your family member takes a dose of one medication in the morning, and a dose of another medication in the evening.

If you need to split your loved one’s pills, do this ahead of time. Then, they won’t have to worry about remembering to split them or using a pill cutter when it’s time to take their medication.

5. Plan ahead for medication refills.

For long-term prescriptions, it’s important to order refills on time so your loved one always has the medication they need. You can ask their doctor for a 90-day supply through a mail-order pharmacy, or one with delivery services. Then, you only have to remember to re-order every few months, and the medication will come right to your loved one’s door.

If delivery services aren’t an option for your family member’s pharmacy, just mark the refill dates on your calendar so you can order and pick up their prescription(s) on time. An in-home care professional can also help with prescription refill and delivery services, saving you time as you continue helping your loved one stay healthy at home.

6. Make sure you understand the usage instructions.

Following medication instructions lowers the risk of harmful drug interactions, as well as common side effects like dizziness or an upset stomach. If you or your loved one don’t understand something about a prescription, an OTC drug, or a supplement, don’t be afraid to ask the doctor or pharmacist! It’s their job to answer questions and provide the right medication to help your loved one stay healthy.

If your family member accidentally strays from these instructions (like missing a dose or taking an extra pill), try to stay calm — but call their doctor if you’re worried. The doctor will guide you on how to help your loved one avoid or cope with any negative side effects. You can also double-check for harmful drug interactions at Drugs.com.

7. Set up a medication reminder system.

Medication reminders can help your loved one take their medicine consistently (at the same time each day, with or without certain foods, etc.). You can create a simple chart with their medication names, dosages, and days/times, then check a box as your family member takes each dose. Tech-savvy seniors can also set alarms on their mobile phone or use a medication management app, like this one from MediSafe.

Medication management is challenging for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia, since they may forget about their prescriptions or supplements. You’ll need to remind them to take their medications in the right dosages. An in-home care expert can also assist you with medication reminders, so your loved one takes their medicine consistently and correctly.

By following these medication management tips, you can keep your loved one safe, independent, and healthy at home.

Managing your family member’s medications, prescription refills, and doctor’s appointments isn’t always easy — especially when you have work and/or your own family to take care of. An in-home care professional can help you and your loved one by:

• Pre-sorting your family member’s medicine
• Managing a list of their medications
• Filling and picking up prescriptions 
• Administering medication when necessary
• Disposing of expired medicine
• And more

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide transportation, financial planning, and other services so your loved ones can stay safe and independent at home. For more information, visit our website or like us on Facebook.

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Tips to Protect an Older Loved One from Viruses

Catching a virus is a nasty, uncomfortable experience no matter how old you are. For our older relatives and friends, however, the risk of getting sick is much higher than younger people in good health.

Illnesses like the flu and COVID-19 can have serious health repercussions for seniors. Each year, thousands are hospitalized with virus symptoms that have gone ignored or misdiagnosed. However, you can help the senior in your life avoid or treat illness.

Learn a few simple tips to protect an older loved one from viruses, who is at risk, symptoms to watch for, and available treatments.

How can you prevent spreading viruses to your older loved ones?

Implementing a few of the following tips in your life, and helping your loved one do the same, can protect them from the flu, COVID-19, and other viruses year-round.

1. Get the flu vaccine.
2. Wash your hands regularly.
3. Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing.
4. Avoid contact with those who are sick.
5. Eat healthy food and stay hydrated.
6. Keep fully rested.
7. Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly.
8. Boost your immunity with Vitamin C.
9. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
10. Sanitize your computer and mobile device.
11. Stay clear of crowds or unnecessary travel.

Who is at risk?

Anyone can catch a virus, but some are more susceptible than others. The following are at the highest risk of falling ill:

• Anyone over the age of 50.
• Adults and children who have chronic diseases, such as heart disease, asthma, cystic fibrosis, kidney disease, or diabetes.
• Residents in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
• People with a weakened immune system, like those receiving chemotherapy or suffering from conditions like HIV/AIDS.
• Community members like policemen and firefighters.
• Anyone working in healthcare.
• Household members of people in this high-risk group.

How do virus symptoms manifest in seniors?

Common symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and loss of taste and/or smell. However, the “expected” symptoms of viruses are not typical symptoms in older adults. This confusion leads to many overlooked and misdiagnosed flu or virus cases each year. The following are the common symptoms that seniors may experience:

• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness or a light-headed feeling
• Weakness
• Delirium
• A worsening of a chronic heart or lung condition

If you suspect your loved one may have a virus, visit your primary care physician immediately. Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious health implications like pneumonia, dehydration, or even death.

What treatments are available, and when is hospitalization necessary?

Similar to other infections, bed rest and fluids are the best treatments available for viruses. However, for those needing additional relief, your loved one’s doctor may also prescribe an antiviral to further alleviate the symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also help with any aches and pains.

If your loved one begins to experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Sudden dizziness
• Symptoms that get better, then suddenly worse
• Seizures
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Swollen mouth or throat
• Confusion
• Severe vomiting
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

By following these tips and keeping in mind the symptoms and available treatments, you’ll be better equipped to protect an older loved on from viruses and keep them happy and healthy.

We know trying to keep your loved one away from germs can get overwhelming. If you need assistance caring for your parent or relative, there is no shame in asking for help. In-home experts can provide the necessary care and supervision to help keep your loved one virus-free. You can ensure he or she is happy, healthy, and safe while finding balance in your own life.

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide services such as transportation, personal care, and companionship to your loved ones so they can remain safely at home and maintain as much independence as possible. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.

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7 Safe & Easy Home Exercises for Seniors

As we get older, it’s important to stay active for our mental and physical health. Exercising as a senior provides plenty of benefits, including:

• Increased metabolism (which naturally slows with age)
• Reduced risk of conditions like diabetes and heart disease
• Improved mobility and balance (and less chance of falling)
• Healthy digestive and immune systems
• And more

Whether your parent or grandparent is worried about falling or just not feeling as energetic as they used to, they may struggle to find the motivation to exercise. But your loved one doesn’t have to work out for hours (or drive to the gym) to get the benefits of moving more. 

In fact, your parent or grandparent can try these safe and easy exercises for seniors from the comfort of their home or neighborhood!

**Note: Please make sure your loved one’s doctor clears them for physical activity.**

1. Wall Pushups

Your loved one may think their days of doing pushups and other strenuous exercises are behind them. But they can actually adjust this workout to their preferred difficulty level while still building upper body strength. Wall pushups also let those with an injury or disability get a workout in while keeping pressure off their legs.

For wall pushups, all your loved one has to do is follow these instructions:

• Stand close to a wall; stretch out arms to touch the wall.
• Keep back straight and core tight.
• Bend elbows to bring the chest toward the wall.
• Press back until arms are straight again.
• Repeat for the desired number of reps.

2. Stretching

While stretching may seem like a simple activity, it will help your loved one stay flexible as they age. As your parent or grandparent’s flexibility increases, so will their balance and coordination — which lets them reduce their risk of falling at home. If your loved one stays limber, they can also keep doing everyday tasks independently, like tying their shoes.

Here are just a few flexibility-boosting stretches your parent or grandparent can try:

Calf stretches: 

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
• Step forward with the right leg and bend the right knee. 
• Bend the left knee until there’s a stretch in the left calf.
• Hold, then repeat with the opposite legs.

Ankle stretches:

• Sit near the edge of a sturdy chair and stretch legs out.
• With heels on the floor, bend the left ankle so toes point up.
• Hold this position, then bend the ankle so toes point down.
• Release, then repeat with the right ankle.

Back stretches: 

• Sit near the edge in a sturdy chair.
• Pull shoulders back and reach the left hand behind.
• Grab the chair with the left hand, and place the right hand on the left thigh.
• Gently twist and hold for a few seconds.
• Release, then repeat on the other side.

3. Chair Squats & Stands

Safe and easy strength exercises, like chair squats and stands, are perfect for seniors living independently at home! Your loved one doesn’t need any special equipment and can adjust the workout based on their ability. Plus, building lower body strength will help them cross chores off the list, like bending down to put groceries or pots and pans away.

Your parent or grandparent can follow these easy steps for chair squats and stands: 

Chair squats:

• Stand with feet hip-width apart and knees over toes.
• Stretch out hands and lower until seated in the chair.
• Stand and raise one leg to gently tap the knee with the hand. 
• Repeat the squats; knee taps are optional.

Chair stands:

• Sit near the edge of a sturdy chair; place feet shoulder-width apart.
• Keep core tight and square shoulders.
• Cross arms and lean back against the chair.
• Slowly rise back up from the chair.
• Stretch arms away and stand.
• Gently sit down and repeat.

4. Arm Raises

Whether your loved one has full mobility, or they’re in a wheelchair due to a disability or injury, they can work on upper arm strength without overexerting themselves. Overhead arm raises are especially great for those with arthritis or joint pain, but any senior can enjoy these exercises; small weights or water bottles are the only equipment they’ll need.

Your loved one can protect their muscles and joints with these overhead arm raises:

• Pick up small weights or water bottles, and place feet shoulder-width apart.
• Keep shoulders back, and lift arms to a 90-degree angle.
• Breathe out while lifting weights or bottles above the head.
• Breathe while lowering arms.
• Repeat as many times as preferred.

5. Chest Presses

Chest presses are another safe and easy exercise for seniors, even those with a disability or injury. Working on flexibility, arm strength, and proper posture can also help your loved one continue doing things on their own — from carrying groceries to closing doors. All seniors need to get a few reps in: a sturdy chair and a light resistance band. 

For chest presses, your parent or grandparent just needs to follow a few steps: 

• Sit up straight in a chair, on a bed, or on the couch. 
• Loop a light resistance band behind the back, at chest level.
• Hold one end of the band in each hand; bend elbows to a 90-degree angle.
• Starting with elbows at the side, straighten both arms against the band.
• Slowly return to the starting position; repeat as desired.

6. Walking

Going for a walk with a friend, in-home companion, or family member can be a great way to boost your loved one’s mood. They’ll also strengthen their muscles and bones while enjoying a beautiful day! Your parent or grandparent may notice aches or stiffness when they start walking, but once they keep moving, they’ll probably feel a lot better overall.

Make sure your loved one stays safe with these walking tips for seniors:

• Wear comfortable sneakers (or orthopedic shoes, for foot problems).
• Dress for the weather; wear layers to add (if cold) or remove (if hot).
• Bring a bottle of water along to stay hydrated.
• Walk familiar paths during the day or in well-lit areas in the evening.
• Watch out for uneven sidewalks and other tripping hazards.

7. Chair Yoga

These chair exercises are a great way for seniors to access the benefits of yoga — like better breathing habits, deeper sleep, more and flexibility — even if they have limited mobility. All your parent or grandparent needs are comfortable clothes and a sturdy chair to start practicing this modified yoga from home!

Here are a few chair yoga poses your loved one can try:

Seated Cat-Cow Stretch:

• Sit in a chair with both feet on the floor. 
• Place hands on knees or thighs.
• Cow position: Breathe in, arch the spine, and roll shoulders back.
• Cat position: Breathe out, round spine, and drop chin to chest, letting the shoulders and head come forward.
• Repeat for five breaths (cow on an inhale, cat on an exhale).

Seated Raised Hands Pose:

• Sit in a chair with a straight back, relaxed shoulders, and ribs over hips.
• Anchor sit bones in the chair and take a deep breath in.
• Raise arms toward the ceiling and hold for a few seconds.
• Lower arms slowly on an exhale.
• Repeat as desired.

Seated Forward Bend:

• Sit near the edge of a chair and breathe in.
• Breathe out, then bend forward over legs.
• Let hands rest on the floor (if they reach), and relax head.
• Breathe in again, and rise back up.
• Repeat a few more times (bending on an exhale, rising on an inhale).

As your parent or grandparent gets older, staying active will help them fight disease, improve their balance, and feel better overall. And with these safe and easy exercises for seniors, they don’t even have to leave the house or neighborhood!

No matter which activity your loved one prefers, an in-home care expert can help them exercise safely while respecting their space and independence.

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide transportation, personal care, and other services so your loved ones can stay safe and independent at home. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.

The post 7 Safe & Easy Home Exercises for Seniors appeared first on Safe T Home Care | In Home Care.

5 Ways to Help Loved Ones While They’re Staying Safe at Home

Many people are feeling anxious during this pandemic, especially seniors with preexisting conditions like lung disease or cancer. According to the CDC, they’re at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19 and developing severe complications. Elderly men and women who live alone may also struggle with being isolated from their family and friends.

But the seniors in your life don’t have to live in loneliness or fear. Here are five things you can do to help loved ones who are staying safe at home.

1. Write them cards or letters, and send pictures.

Handmade cards and handwritten letters are gifts that your loved ones will treasure, especially when you can’t visit them right now. (These are also great for seniors who are hard of hearing and may struggle on the phone.) If you have kids, they can get involved by making cards or coloring pictures for Grandma and Grandpa.

This time can be confusing for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia, who may not understand why their routine has changed or why family can’t visit. But research shows that even those with severe dementia will respond to photos. You can send pictures to seniors with their family and friends, and label photos with names and dates on the back.

2. Help them use technology to stay connected.

Calling or FaceTiming your loved ones regularly can help them feel less isolated and lonely. If your parent or grandparent isn’t sure how to use FaceTime or Zoom, you can walk them through the process over the phone. When you’re chatting with your loved one, keep them engaged by sharing a happy memory you can both reminisce about. Or, if you have kids, they could tell your children a bedtime story over the phone.

You can also help your loved ones access online religious services if they normally attend a church, temple, or mosque. Faith is often a major part of the older generation’s lives, and tuning in to a service may help your parent or grandparent feel connected to their religious community. For adults with hearing difficulties, closed captions can guide them in following along with the service.

3. Ask how they’re feeling (physically and emotionally).

When you’re connecting with your loved ones, check on their physical and mental health. Ask if they’ve had a fever, a cough, or trouble breathing within the last 2-14 days. If they have, tell them to call their doctor. And even if your loved ones are feeling great, encourage them to keep taking precautions like staying home and washing their hands often.

Aside from physical ailments, your parent or grandparent might feel anxious during the pandemic. This stress may lead to symptoms like:

• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Worsening chronic or mental health conditions
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Headaches or stomachaches
• Feeling lonely, sad, or helpless

Your parent or grandparent can combat these symptoms with safe, socially distant interactions. Simply saying hello to the mail carrier or calling a neighbor will remind your loved ones that they’re not alone during this time. Encourage them to eat three meals a day and get plenty of sleep, too. This will both protect their immune system and help them stay mentally healthy.

4. Create an emergency contact list, and ask about their doctor’s appointments.

Even if your loved ones are healthy, they should have a list of emergency contacts in case they get sick or need anything. Besides your phone number, you should also include contact information for:

• Neighbors and family members
• Their doctor(s)
• Local mental health services
• Their pharmacy
• Their in-home care provider

You can also check with your loved ones’ doctors to see if they offer telemedicine (allowing your parent or grandparent to email or video chat with their specialist or primary care provider). If not, help your loved ones reschedule any non-essential appointments. A Safe-T Home Care staff member can also provide transportation to necessary labs and visits.

5. Make sure your loved ones have food, medicine, soap, and other essentials.

We’re not sure how long this quarantine will last, but you can ensure your loved ones have everything they need while staying safely at home. Make sure they’re stocked up on:

• Food and water
• Toilet paper 
• Soap and disinfectant wipes 
• A 4-week supply of essential medications (Many pharmacies are providing local delivery during this time.)

It may be helpful to have someone assist you with getting essentials to your loved one, especially if you’re sick, at work, or caring for children. A Safe-T Home Care staff member can shop for your loved ones and bring supplies directly to their door.

By taking these steps, you can help your loved ones stay healthy, combat loneliness, and connect with family and friends.

Safe-T Home Care is continuing senior in-home care during this time, so you and your family don’t have to worry about service disruption. If you have any questions about helping loved ones who are staying safe at home, just give us a call at 574-218-0926 or 855-401-SAFE (7233). We’re here for you!

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide transportation, personal care, and other services so your loved ones can stay safe and independent at home. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.

The post 5 Ways to Help Loved Ones While They’re Staying Safe at Home appeared first on Safe T Home Care | In Home Care.

Home Care Safety Tips for Every Room

Your aging family members understandably want to keep their independence as much as possible. While you value their safety and want to make changes, you can do so without limiting their freedom.

When you’re caring for a loved one with mobility or memory struggles at home, there are a few easy ways to make each room less hazardous. Check out our home care safety tips!

Bathroom

While the bathroom is a common place for slips and falls, there are simple ways to make the space safer and more comfortable for loved ones with impaired memory or mobility:

• Mark the hot water knob on the sink with red nail polish or marker to prevent accidental burning.
• If possible, put a telephone near the toilet in the event of an emergency.
• Remove the lock on the bathroom door to allow easy access in case of a slip and fall.
• Get rid of all glass items in the bathroom to prevent cuts from any shattering.
• Keep extra rolls of toilet paper within easy reach.
• Clean the tub regularly to avoid slippery soap, mold, or mildew from building up.
• Install designated support bars for balance, NOT towel racks, glass doors, or soap dishes.
• If your loved one’s shower or tub is white, get a colorful non-slip mat to help them judge distance.

Bedrooms

An easily accessible bedroom is a necessary part of keeping a routine. Ensuring your loved one can get in and out of bed, move without trouble, and prepare to handle an emergency is easy with a few simple adjustments:

• Keep a flashlight by the bedside table for a power outage or other situation where vision is limited.
• Have a sturdy chair or table near the bed for support when getting up and down.
• Move the bed against a wall to minimize chances of falling out of bed.
• Remind loved ones that dressing while lying down is okay.
• If a family member is weaker on one side, encourage them to dress the weaker side first.
• Purchase an inexpensive room monitor to make alerting you easier.
• Get rid of clutter, clothing, and towels on the floor.

Kitchen

Keeping the kitchen safe for aging family members is an important part of helping them retain their independence. Here are a few ways to reduce risk:

• Keep appliances as clean as possible to prevent a fire hazard, including the toaster, microwave, and stove top.
• Add adhesive, raised dots to common settings on the microwave and stove or oven.
• Remind loved ones to avoid handling electrical equipment with wet hands.
• Place commonly used items at a convenient level within reach—somewhere between the shoulders and the knees.
• Suggest that family members use non-glass dishware, or at least get rid of any cracked or chipped items.
• Unplug electrical appliances and encourage your loved one to only plug them in when they’re in use.

Living Room

Your family members should feel safe and comfortable at home, especially in shared spaces. There are a few ways to make the living room more accessible:

• Agree on a furniture arrangement that helps your loved one navigate the living room. Once it’s decided, don’t make changes.
• Keep floors free of clutter.
• Be sure the living room and other frequently navigated areas are well lit, possibly adding automatic night lights activated when it gets dark.
• Make sure furniture is sturdy in case your loved one needs to lean on it for balance.

By taking these easy steps, you can keep your aging loved ones safe without limiting their independence. If they still need transportation assistance or even a little help around the house, an expert can assist them so you can handle other responsibilities.

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide services such as transportation, personal care, and companionship to your loved ones so they can remain safely at home and maintain as much independence as possible. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.

The post Home Care Safety Tips for Every Room appeared first on Safe T Home Care | In Home Care.