What is a Living Will?
We all know what a will is, but do you know what a living will is? A living will (also known as “advance health care directives” or “advance directives”) is a legal document that is used to dictate a person’s desires regarding how life-prolonging medical treatments are provided. A living will is an important document to have so that your family and doctors know how you’d like to be cared for, should you yourself lose the ability to communicate it yourself. When Does a Living Will Take Effect? A living will only takes effect when you are diagnosed with a terminal illness or become permanently unconscious. It does not take effect for other medical emergencies, such as a heart attack. A living will kicks in when medical care providers determine that you are unable to recover from your condition. Who Should Have a Living Will? Unexpected health crises that render you unable to make health care decisions can happen to anyone at any stage of life. Having a living will prepared — at any age – can not only help insure that you are taken care of the way you want to be by your medical team, but it also reduces stress and confusion among loved ones who would otherwise have to guess how you’d like to be treated. What to Include In Your Living Will? When writing your living will, you’ll need to consider a variety of end-of-life treatment decisions. Should you be unsure of what you’d like your medical care provider to do in each scenario, you should consult with your doctor. A few of the situations you should provide clear instructions for in your living will include: Resuscitation Tube Feeding Organ Donations Antibiotics How to Create A Legally Binding Living Will You can create a living will with the assistance of an attorney, an estate planning software such as Quicken WillMaker Plus, or even basic living will declaration forms that can be found online. An estate planning software will provide a much less expensive way to develop your living will. In Illinois, your living will must be signed, witnessed and notarized. Once you have created your living will, you’ll want to share copies with your doctor, your family and a health care agent (a person outside your medical team that can adhere to your written wishes and advocate for them should there be disagreements about how you will be cared for). If you’d like to learn more about advanced care planning to dictate your end-of-life treatment wishes, please attend our POLST: Make Your Health Care Decisions Known event on Tuesday, April 21.
Five Resources for Finding Classic Movies
Did you know that many classic films are readily available to watch at any time online? Thanks to the Internet, you no longer need to own a copy of your favorite classic movie in order to watch it. Even better, you can watch many classic films for free. Below are five online resources that will allow you to watch classic movies on your computer, tablet or on a TV connected to the Internet. 1. WatchTCM Turner Classic Movies’ (TCM) online companion to their television channel features a portal to watch all of the classic movies you crave. Their ever-changing selection features around 100 on-demand films, from The Ambassador’s Daughter to Wyoming. Movies on WatchTCM are free to view, but you must provide your TV service provider (Xfinity, DirectTV, etc.) and login credentials. 2. Archive.org The Internet Archive is a non-profit that was founded to build an internet library. The website has millions of free books, movies, software, music and more. If you know what movie you’d like to watch, you can simply search for it in the search bar. Want to browse through their selection? Look to their collections, which includes categories like “feature films” and “classic TV commercials.” 3. Old Movie Time Featuring the best films of the thirties, forties, fifties and sixties, Old Movie Time carries a large collection of highly-rated classic films and television shows. The films on Old Movie Time are free to watch, but those who choose to become a subscriber can get access to an even larger number of films for $3.00 a month. 4. Black And White Movies Black And White Movies shares films that are available in the public domain, allowing all of the films to be watched legally and free of charge. You can easily create a wish list of all of their films you’d like to watch, search for your favorite movies, and can even request subtitles for your favorite movies. 5. Netflix Netflix is a great option for classic films if you’d like to have DVDs mailed to your house or if you are also interested in watching more current movies and television shows. If you aren’t interested in having DVDs mailed to you, you can stream your favorite classic (or current) films on your computer, tablet, or Internet-connected television. Plans start at $7.99 a month, but new users can try out their first month for free. Interested in watching some newer films, too? Be sure to read our recommendations for 30 Newer Movies That Older Adults Can Enjoy. What are your favorite classic films? Do you plan on using any of these online services to watch movies? Let us know in the comments!
Power of Touch: What We Learned During the Event
A recap of CMSS’s
Health Resolution #5: Get Rest
Simple changes you can make to help you sleep better.
2015 Health Resolution #4: See Your Doctor
Tips for making the most of your next doctor’s appointment.
Health Resolution #3: Eat Right
Nutrition guidelines that we can all follow to stay healthy and feel great.
Health Resolution #2: Strengthen the Body
Benefits of exercise for senior citizens and tips for staying active.
2015 Health Resolution #1: Strengthen the Mind
Five tips to help your mind stay sharp throughout 2015.
Are Your Older Loved Ones Really Ready for Winter?
It’s December and winter is in full force! The temperatures are dropping, snow will soon fall and harsh winds will move in. When preparing your home for winter, think about the older adults in your life who may need help getting their homes ready as well. There are many preventative measures you can take to create a warm, comfortable and most importantly, safe home for your older loved ones. Keep the thermostat above 65. It may be tempting to turn the heat down at times to save on costs, but that can be dangerous. Older bodies are less efficient at regulating body heat, so it is imperative to keep rooms warm. Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your older loved one’s home. Check that drafts are blocked and windows insulated. You can hire someone or do this yourself in order to keep the heat indoors. Even the slightest openings between outside and the indoors can cause the temperature inside to drop drastically. Arrange for snow removal in advance. Don’t wait until the storms come! Make plans to come over after a storm, ask a neighbor or hire someone to clear the driveway and walkways when snow falls. This is also a great time to put salt down to prevent ice and the falls that come with it. Install sturdy railings on both sides of walkways. It’s not too late to put in sturdy railings for older adults to hold onto. This will give them a sense of stability and security when walking outside in the winter. Encourage older adults to wear non-skid boots. An easy way to prevent falls is making sure your loved one has non-skid boots or shoes with plenty of traction. Walking on ice is never easy, but a good pair of shoes can help with balance. Find indoor alternatives for exercise. When the weather turns bad, it’s easy to stay indoors to avoid the cold, ice and hassle. Unfortunately that isolation can lead to loneliness or depression, so offer to pick up your loved one and take them to a gym or the mall for a walk. Not only will this get their blood pumping, but it’s a great way to spend time together. Now is the time to take these preventative measures and keep your loved ones safe. If you need help with any of these home repairs or installations, feel free to contact PrimeLife Home Improvement to get them done as soon as possible.
Our Favorite Online Resources for Family Caregivers
Many family caregivers feel overwhelmed, underprepared, alone, and stressed as they face the great responsibility of taking care of their loved one. As we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month, we wanted to share our favorite resources to help the compassionate people who step into the family caregiver role every day. Elderwerks Elderwerks serves as a free senior housing and care resource network, helping seniors through the transition from one home to another. They specialize in personalized help: they’ll consider your medical conditions, budget, locations and desired amenities to help you pick out housing or services that you’ll love. Their website includes a collection of useful articles and guides on topics ranging from caregiving to financial guidance. Senior Living Experts Senior Living Experts is a website created by three local Chicago professionals who are intimately familiar with the senior living industry in the Chicagoland area. They offer free assistance choosing senior housing, taking into consideration your needs, budget and geographical preference. You can choose to be consulted with one of the Senior Living Experts via phone or e-mail, making getting the guidance you need incredibly convenient. Caregiver Action Network The Caregiver Action Network prides themselves on being “the nation’s leading family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for the more than 65 million Americans who care for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or the frailties of old age.” The website offers a forum where caregivers can go for advice from their peers, as well as a resource “toolbox” filled with tips, videos, webinars, checklists and more. Family Caregiver Alliance The Family Caregiver Alliance aims to support and educate family caregivers. A non-profit championing the work of the family caregiver through education, services, research and advocacy, the Family Caregiver Alliance website is packed full of information. From caregiving guides for specific conditions (including dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke) to webinars and support groups, caregivers will find the resources offered through Family Caregiver Alliance to be useful and easily applicable to their daily work. CareGiving.com Caregiving.com is a hub for family caregivers. The website has a community-oriented nature, and encourages visitors to regularly connect with other members. It features blogs from various family caregivers, webinars, online support groups, a question & answer section. We recommend taking a look at “The 6 Stages of Caregiving” to determine what tasks and goals to give yourself, based on what stage of caregiving you are in. AARP The AARP offers a Caregiving Resource Center, complete with information, tools and tips for caregivers. In addition to keeping visitors updated on caregiving news, you can get practical information on health insurance and Medicare/Medicaid, advice on managing your loved one’s legal and financial matters, and tips on how to care for yourself. AARP’s “Juggling Work and Caregiving” If you are one of the 42 million Americans caring for a loved one while balancing a career, Amy Goyer’s book “Juggling Work and Caregiving” (available as a free ebook on Amazon) is for you. Goyer, in collaboration with the AARP, offers practical resources and tips for maintaining your own wellbeing while caregiving. The book covers topics including how to work with your employer to make sure you can properly care for your loved one, how to stay sane, dealing with legal matters, and managing finances.
Top 10 Things to Look for When Choosing an Inpatient Rehab Center
When you are looking for a short-term rehabilitation for yourself or a loved one, there are many things to consider. Here are 10 important things to look for when searching for the right place: 10. Provider networks: It’s important to have the best coverage possible so you can take full advantage of your rehab experience. Make sure the places you are looking at are fully covered by your insurance to maximize your benefits. 9. Reputation: There are many facilities with stellar reputations for providing great care and good results. While you should not base your decision solely on this status, it is something to consider. 8. Physician referral: Your doctor may make recommendations to you based on their experience with certain facilities. A good working relationship between your physician and the facility may give you a smoother continuum of care. Your doctor may also recommend the type of facility you should look at based on your rehab needs. 7. Facility tour: If you are able, take an unannounced tour of the facilities you are considering. Get a feel for the physical surroundings, the staff, and the atmosphere of the rehab center. 6. Equipment available: Facilities should give you information regarding the rehab equipment available. A facility that has such equipment as a body-weight support treadmill (excellent for stroke rehab, as well as many other conditions), a car simulator, and so on, may be preferable, depending on your needs. 5. Facility specialty: Some rehab centers have areas of specialization or emphasis, such as brain injury, stroke, or trauma. Depending on your needs, you may want to choose a facility that focuses on one specific type of rehab. 4. Personal referral: A much more reliable source for referral than general reputation is a recommendation from a friend or family member. If you know someone who has spent time at a particular rehab facility, get their opinion. A positive review from someone you trust will help you make your decision. 3. Location, location, location: Successful rehab is much more likely if family and friends are able to visit frequently to provide support and to receive training as needed. Choosing a quality location as close to home as possible that loved ones feel comfortable visiting will positively impact your rehab. 2. Prior successful rehab: If you have previous experience with a facility, your own experience is an important factor in making a decision. Familiarity with the facility will increase your level of comfort and make the transition easier for you and your family. 1. Facility staff: When touring a facility, talk to some of the staff – nurses, physicians, therapists, social workers, and so on. Ask questions and get a feel for the people who work there. A caring, dedicated, friendly staff will work hard to make your rehab successful. You have many choices for inpatient rehab. Take the time to choose the right one for you in order to make your rehab more successful.
6 Little Known Facts About the Real Life of Caregivers
The vast majority of caregivers for seniors in the U.S. aren’t nurses or trained professionals. They are the spouses, partners, family members, friends and neighbors of the older adults who need care. They are people like you. These caregivers humbly choose to care for their loved ones day in and day out, and they don’t get paid to do so. Often, they don’t get recognized as they should, either. Today, in honor of Caregiver Appreciation Month, we’d like to share a few lesser known facts about caregivers in order to show our appreciation for the work they do. 1. 65.7 million caregivers make up 29 percent of the U.S. There are caregivers who attend to the ill, elderly and aging next to you in line at the grocery store, sharing a backyard with you or sitting behind you at the movies. Caregivers are everywhere. You never know who may need an extra hand with their groceries or just a simple smile after a long day watching after someone else. These millions of Americans are inspirations. 2. A Gallup survey found 72 percent of caregivers care for a parent, step-parent, mother-in-law or father-in-law. Although caregivers can also include neighbors or friends, they are usually children or close family. In many cases, this makes their jobs even more emotionally taxing. 3. 50 percent of all caregivers in the United States are fully employed, and 11 percent are employed part-time. There are many caregivers out there who are working demanding jobs on top of their full-time job of caring for their loved one. A financial burden is often taken on when caregiving, increasing their need to stay employed. 4. Research shows that 17 percent of caregivers feel their health in general has gotten worse as a result of their caregiving responsibilities. The sacrifice of time and energy required to care for someone else can lead to stress, weight gain and fatigue for caregivers. Focusing full-time on the wellbeing of another often leads to dismissing your own needs. 5. Caregiver services were valued at $450 billion per year in 2009. This calculation focuses mostly on professional caregiving, and would be even more staggering if the costs of providing care for a close loved one were fully included. 6. 26 percent of caregivers have looked online for someone with similar health concerns, compared with 15 percent of non-caregivers. Caregivers are also more likely to tap into their offline social networks when they need health information, care, or support. If you know a caregiver, be sure to thank them for the time and energy they put into caring for their loved ones, and remind them to care for themselves, too. If you are a caregiver yourself, thank you for the amazing work you do. Please check out our event calendar as we have support groups for caregivers every month: Events
An Open Thank You Letter to Family Caregivers
Dear Caregivers, The month of November is National Family Caregiver Month – when we recognize the 90 million family caregivers in the U.S. today. Chicagoland Methodist Senior Services (CMSS) is proud to have gotten to know many of you who selflessly dedicate your time, energy, and attention to caring for your loved ones. You play such a significant role in the lives of those you care for – including those of you that receive assistance from outside sources such as home caregivers. You’re also an important part of the equation when it comes to planning care provided by CMSS: the coordination between you and the CMSS staff is vital in properly caring for your loved ones. Despite the fact that you provide so much, you rarely receive the recognition that you deserve. AARP estimates that the economic value of the unpaid contributions of family caregivers in 2009 alone to be $450 billion – with a staggering 39% of U.S. adults acting as a caregiver to an adult or child with significant health issues. With close to half of American adults acting as family caregivers, it is crucial for us to recognize and support the work that you do. We know that you often juggle the care you provide for your loved ones with your employment, children, social lives, and your own health. As the Caregiver Action Network explains, “managing medications, providing wound care, and operating specialized medical equipment” are just a few of the many important tasks that you must carefully execute. In additional to the medical care you provide, you also offer something equally important: love and companionship. The mental health benefits that you provide for your loved ones is too often far understated and undervalued. To all of the family caregivers who so graciously provide compassionate care and support to their loved ones: thank you so much for all that you do. Sincerely, -Everyone at Chicagoland Methodist Senior Services
Sharing Caregiver Responsibilities
As family members age, the responsibility of their care often falls on the younger generation, usually their children and grandchildren, and according to a study done by the National Alliance for Caregiving in 2009, that includes more than of 65 million Americans. Managing a loved one’s care is often a full-time job, as that person’s living situation, finances and physical and mental health often all need to be cared for. Sharing these responsibilities amongst other family members can help alleviate some of the stress that comes with caring for an aging parent or grandparent, but it’s typically not that easy. Disagreements about how much care and who will play what role in giving that care can easily plague caregivers who don’t communicate well with each other. Fortunately though, if caregivers are proactive about their approach to caring for aging parents and grandparents, the process can be much smoother for their family. Here are a few tips for sharing caregiver responsibilities with your family: Think Ahead The best time to discuss how to care for an aging family member is prior to a crisis. Sit down with your siblings, cousins or anyone else involved in your loved one’s life and talk about how everyone can best contribute to the care of that person. Laying the groundwork with a basic plan like this helps get everyone on the same page so that if there ever is an emergency, your family is prepared and can jump into action faster. Also, don’t be afraid to discuss with your parents and grandparents how they’d like to be cared for. Understanding their wishes can help the rest of your family make decisions when a situation occurs. Understand Finances Medical care is usually quite expensive, so it’s important for all of the caregivers to understand the finances of the person being taken care of. Meeting with a financial planner can shed light on the best and most financially responsible way to budget for your family member’s care and keep everyone on the same page in terms of money. Divide Up Responsibility When the time comes to begin taking care of aging family members, be sure to specifically divide up responsibilities amongst all the caregivers. Having specific duties helps minimize confusion about medical care, meal planning, appointments, etc. It also will help make sure that no one caregiver is shouldering too much responsibility, which in turn can limit caregiver disagreements. Should a disagreement flare up talking to a professional, such as a licensed social worker, can be of assistance to your family. These experts will be able to provide an objective point of view on your loved one’s care and help everyone decide on what is best for them. What else have you done to make caregiving easier on you and your family?
In the End, Who Really Rescues Who?
Acadia, one of the many lovable cats available for adoption at Tree House Humane Society I’ve blogged before about the physical, emotional and mental benefits of owning a pet. From lowering your blood pressure to providing mental stimulation, pets not only reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, but they can also be trained to detect seizures and assist with various forms of rehabilitation. What I’ve neglected to discuss is where you can go to find the perfect little fuzzy companion for you or your loved one. With increasing amounts of abuse and neglect being reported, as well as a lack of responsibility for breeding practices, puppy mills are not the best option. Various rescue organizations, founded by those who deeply care for animals and not the profit that can be made from them, have sprouted up across Chicagoland to help stop the euthanization of over 20,000 animals in Chicago each year. Rescuing a pet can not only be less expensive than buying a specific breed from a breeder, but the act itself can provide more peace of mind and fulfillment for the heart. Top 5 Chicago Rescue Picks One Tail at a Time A no-kill, 501(c)3 all-breed rescue organization committed to lowering euthanasia rates in the area, One Tail at a Time provides humane education programs as well as assistance for disadvantaged and low-income families. Adoption fee is $200 or $300 for puppies 6 months and under. If the dog is over 7 years old, the fee is $150. All fees cover a wellness exam, spay/neuter, age-appropriate vaccinations, heartworm test and microchip. Email AdrienneOTAT@gmail.com or visit http://www.onetail.org/ for more information. New Leash on Life A volunteer run, nonprofit organization, New Leash on Life (NLOL) is committed to finding loving homes for shelter dogs that otherwise would be euthanized. They do not discriminate by age or breed. Furthermore, their focus is on non-adoptable dogs that are often overlooked by other organizations. NLOL has the patience to work with these dogs to help them overcome their anxiety, so you might find a plethora of options. Adoption fee is $250, and dogs are fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered and microchipped prior to adoption. Call (312) 458-9839 or visit http://nlolchicago.org/ for more information. Alive Rescue Originally run only through foster homes, Alive Rescue now operates out of “the little barn” in Roscoe Village. In addition to focusing on older animals or those with special needs, Alive Rescue also values sustainable living and care giving by creating awareness and respect for all animals and the environment within our communities. They are GREEN and certainly take it seriously. The requested donation for cats is $150, $300 for dogs over 4 months old, $325 for dogs under 4 months . A $75 training deposit is required, but refunded once proof is provided that the training class has been completed. Email info@aliverescue.org or visit http://www.aliverescue.org/ for more information. Chicagoland Lab Rescue, Inc. If you are a lover of labs and want to stay specific to that breed, then this organization is for you. Their mission is to save these great family dogs through their network of shelters and vets. Adoption fees vary by age -dogs under 9 monthsare $325, over 9 months are $275 and over 8 years old are $175. Email info@chicagolandlabrescue.com or visit http://www.chicagolandlabrescue.org/ for more information. Tree House Humane Society A cageless, no kill humane organization specializing in the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured stray cats, these folks are all about the cats! With vast amounts of information and resources on their website, there’s no mistaking how much Tree House cares for the kitties. They have adoption facilities in Uptown, Bucktown and a new center and low-cost clinic on the way. The adoption fee of $85 covers the cost of one cat’s care to include spay/neuter, deworming, flea treatment, FIV and FeLV testing, AVID microchip, veterinary examination and all vaccinations. Email adoption@treehouseanimals.org or visit http://www.treehouseanimals.org/site/PageServer?pagename=home for more information. Information taken from: http://www.onetail.org/, http://nlolchicago.org/ , http://www.aliverescue.org/ , http://www.chicagolandlabrescue.org/, http://www.treehouseanimals.org/site/PageServer?pagename=home Carrie Robertson Research & Community Education Chicago Skilled Nursing Chicago Senior Living
Neurologic Rehabilitation for Older Adults
Older adults who have been affected by any neurological condition, including stroke, Parkinson’s, balance disorders, Multiple Sclerosis, or even carpal tunnel, often have difficulty with day-to-day activities and require neurological rehabilitation to return to a better quality of life. Neurological rehabilitation is just as it sounds: rehabilitation for those with diseases or trauma in the nervous system. Neurological rehabilitation can be a bit more intensive than orthopedic rehabilitation, due to the fact that cognitive therapy is often required on top of physical therapy, and in some cases, speech therapy. Possible neurological conditions requiring rehabilitation: Stroke ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease Cerebral palsy Guillain-Barre syndrome Muscular dystrophy Multiple Sclerosis Parkinson’s disease Balance disorders Infections (such as meningitis, encephalitis, polio, brain abscesses) Spinal cord injury Bell’s palsy Seizure disorder Alzheimer’s disease Huntington’s disease What to expect from a neurological rehabilitation program What to expect from a neurological rehabilitation program truly depends on you or your loved one’s specific conditions or needs. Whether inpatient or outpatient, most programs include a team of therapists and doctors that will create a plan with various phases to help regain the utmost level of independence possible. That plan may or may not include the following: Speech therapy to assist with speaking, reading, or writing Swallow therapies Relearning daily activities such as eating, dressing, bathing, housekeeping, and cooking Bladder and bowel control Re-education of social and behavioral skills Mobility training, muscle control and function, gait training, and balance Targeted exercise programs to maintain strength and range of motion Cognitive activities that improve concentration and memory Nutritional counseling Stress management Emotional support Home care needs assessments Family education and counseling It is important for you and your loved ones to be involved and actively engaged with the rehabilitation team and the goals set forth within the plan to ensure progress and overall quality of life is regained and maintained. For information on the rehabilitation programs at Wesley Place Rehab, visit Wesley Place. Information taken from: http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ and https://www.corahealth.com/ Carrie Robertson Research & Community Education Chicago Skilled Nursing Chicago Senior Living
The Power of Habit
Habits: good or bad, we all have them. In fact, they influence every part of every single day, from what we say to how we say it to what we eat and do and even when we do those things. Why is it that some habits seem like they should be easy to control while others seem so ingrained that no amount of will power could possibly alter them? Do we become our best selves through nature, habit or instruction? Aristotle seemed to think that the behaviors that occur without thinking provide evidence of our truest selves. In The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business, Charles Duhigg lays out the case, through poignant research studies from neurologists and countless examples from organizational experts, that people have unrecognized trained habits and those habits can be changed. Duhigg contends that we make invisible decisions every day that we consciously chose at some point in time. We’ve just stopped thinking about them and have continued to make those choices. It has become a formula that our brain follows. If we change that formula and become prepared in our habits, we can then fulfill on any intention. Duhigg does not provide a secret formula to adjust your habits as there is not a one-size-fits-all formula.. What Duhigg does provide, through various types of examples, is the proof that habits are driven by cravings and the understanding of why they exist and how they function. The crux of this book is the frame work to how habits work. Why is this so crucial? Once you understand habits, you can get on with the business of transforming the ones you despise. Identify the Routine There is a loop at the core of every habit that involves a cue, a routine, and a reward. Routine is the most obvious of a habit; it’s the behavior I want to change. For example, let’s say I have the habit of going to the coffee cart every afternoon and purchasing a $3 cappuccino. I’ve tried everything to alter this habit, but nothing seems to be working. Experiment with Rewards Now it’s time to think about what rewards you are getting from your habit. For my habit, is it the energy boost I get from the coffee? Is it socializing at the coffee cart? Is it the change of scenery? Take a few weeks to collect some data. Change up your routine every day and then record the results. For example, I could walk a different route and not buy coffee one day; the next, purchase a cookie instead. I could drink the coffee at my desk one day; the next, eat a banana while socializing. The goal is to try to figure out which craving is driving the routine by testing 4-5 different rewards. Jot down the first 3 things that come to mind when you’ve completed the task. They could be emotions, reflection, or random thoughts. Then set an alarm for 15 minutes after you’ve jotted your thoughts down to ask yourself if you still feel the need for that coffee on the days you didn’t purchase it (in my scenario). If I still wanted coffee, I could conclude that maybe it was the boost of energy I was craving. If I didn’t, then maybe it was the social interaction or a break from work that I was truly after. Isolate the Cue What cues might be triggering your habit?. For my habit, am I bored, hungry, lonely, tired, or have low blood pressure? This is the hardest part because there is so much happening when our behaviors are unfolding. I should ask myself why do I buy coffee every afternoon around 3:30pm? What triggers that behavior? Is it because everyone else is going at that time or that is a standard break time or that I feel I shouldn’t consume caffeine after 4pm since it might keep me up at night? Scientists have recognized that cues fall into 1 of 5 categories: location, time, emotional state, other people, and immediately preceding action. This takes some of the guess work out. Therefore, the moment the urge for your habit hits you, you should jot down the answers to these 5 questions. Where are you? What time is it? What is your emotional state? Who else is around? What action preceded the urge? This will help you see the patterns to discover your cue. My answers might be: At my desk, 3:30pm, sleepy, no one, just completed a project. Have a Plan Hopefully, you now recognize the loop and can make a plan to change the behavior to give your brain a new formula to follow. For me, I realized that upon completion of a project where I had isolated myself to do the work, I craved a pat on the back before moving on to a new task. I saw the cue (completion of a lengthy project), I did the routine (get coffee) and got the reward (a break before beginning a new project). I found the reward was equally satisfying if it was socializing with someone for a few moments, having a snack, or even stepping outside for fresh air and sunshine. It didn’t have to be coffee for me to feel satisfied. Consequently, I was able to make a new plan to cut down on my $15 a week habit. My Plan: When I complete a project, I will find someone to chat with for 15 minutes. If no one is available, I will go outside for 15 minutes to enjoy some fresh air. If the weather is unfavorable, I will eat one of the pre-bought healthy snacks at my desk. Change is hard and I did fall off the wagon a few times because I wanted something warm and steamy. So I added tea bags to the pile of snacks in my drawer and I got back on the wagon. Before I knew it my plan became automatic. […]
When is Inpatient Rehabilitation Care Needed for Older Adults?
Temporarily living in a rehabilitation center after a fall or trauma has become a favorable situation for older adults. This residential setting can be more convenient and less cumbersome than traveling to and from a rehabilitation center for appointments – especially if the injury is orthopedic in nature and traveling to appointments risks re-injury. Many hospitals, nursing and assisted living residences offer inpatient facilities. You might think that being away from home in an unfamiliar environment might would be more stressful; however, that is not always the case. In fact, studies have shown that a more successful recovery is achieved when there is 24 hour supervision and treatment since you or your loved one can rest assured knowing someone is there to help at any point in time. A doctor may recommend inpatient over outpatient rehabilitation for older adults. You may be wondering what types of injuries can be treated in an inpatient rehabilitation center. The majority of injuries needing rehabilitation are orthopedic, neurological, and/or cardiac. Inpatient rehabilitation treatments might include treatment for the following list of conditions: Musculoskeletal injury, such as a fracture or broken bone Joint replacement Amputation Arthritis Brain injury Aneurysms Neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, Bell’s Palsy, Epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis Stroke Nerve impingement Cancer Tumor Though this is only a partial list, it demonstrates that a large number of treatments involve recovering lost mobility, rebuilding muscle function, developing needed strength for utilizing walkers and wheelchairs, improving communication skills, and providing the emotional support needed to cope with the trauma and resume daily activities. The length of the stay can vary based on progress – it all depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s participation in the process. Most centers have a staff that consists of a variety of therapists (physical, occupational, speech, etc.) and health care workers to create a plan based on each person’s needs and condition. The over-arching goal of any inpatient rehabilitation facility is to get the patient comfortably functioning so they can get on with the business of living their life. Discussing inpatient and outpatient options with you or your loved one’s doctor is a good place to start if you have injuries that have been diminishing your quality of life. For information on the rehabilitation programs at Wesley Place Rehab, visit Wesley Place. Source: http://www.agingcare.com/Articles/elderly-parent-inpatient-rehabilitation-138342.htm Carrie Robertson Research & Community Education Chicago Skilled Nursing Chicago Senior Living
World Alzheimer’s Month – Can We Reduce the Risk?
This September, we are observing the third annual World Alzheimer’s Month, an observance designed to raise awareness and challenge stigma surrounding this illness on a global scale. Alzheimer’s disease affects an estimated 5.2 million Americans and is the leading cause of dementia in older adults. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are ways you may be able to reduce the risk of developing dementia by keeping your brain healthy. As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of our health, physically and mentally. Much like our bodies, our brains lose strength and stamina as we grow older, especially if they’re not “exercised” properly. In order to stay in shape mentally, it’s important to adopt a brain-healthy lifestyle. Here are four easy ways to change your lifestyle that will help keep your brain healthy: Stay Physically Active Aerobic exercise like walking, biking, jogging and yoga helps get the body moving and your heart pumping. These types of exercise are important for maintaining good blood flow to your brain, which helps with the creation of new brain cells. Stay Mentally Active An active brain is a healthy brain! Research suggests that mental activity increases the brain’s vitality and builds up brain cells. Reading, writing, crossword puzzles, adult education courses and plays are all excellent options for keeping you and your brain engaged and curious. Socialize Social activity like sports, clubs, traveling, or simply eating a meal with a friend help reduce stress levels and make mental activity more enjoyable. Eat Brain-Healthy Foods A diet high in fat and cholesterol can lead to heart attacks and strokes, which inevitably have a negative impact on both the brain and the rest of the body. To promote both brain and overall health, cut down on fats and cholesterol and replace them with dark fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants. If you are interested in raising awareness and funding for research to help end Alzheimer’s, please join team CMSS at the Walk to End Alzhiemers on Sunday, September 28 at Montrose Harbor. More information can be found here. What are you doing to keep your brain healthy and active during this World Alzheimer’s Month? Alyssa Conrardy Marketing & Communications Skilled Nursing for Dementia Chicago Senior Services
Where to get your flu shot in Chicago
With flu season rapidly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about getting vaccinated. Are you at risk for catching the flu? The Northern Illinois Public Health Consortium reports that every year, between 5% and 20% of the U.S. population contracts the flu. What’s more, 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 die from complications ever year. The risk for contracting the flu and experiencing more serious complications increases for at-risk populations, including seniors, people with health conditions and people with disabilities. It is highly encouraged that these populations get vaccinated to help decrease their risk of getting sick. Even if you aren’t in a high-risk population, getting vaccinated will help reduce your risk of getting sick and spreading the flu to high-risk individuals. Where can you get the flu vaccine in Chicago? There are many locations throughout the Chicagoland area that provide flu vaccinations. Most insurance plans cover part or all of flu vaccination costs, but double check with your provider prior to vaccination to be sure. The Chicago Department of Public Health created a great tool that plots vaccination locations on a map. If you live within the city of Chicago, this is a great resource to quickly find your closest pharmacy or clinic. This tool even maps locations that provide free vaccinations. If you live in the suburbs, your best bet is to visit a chain pharmacy, grocery or big box store for your vaccine. Visit the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to find a location in your town providing vaccines. Walgreens: To find a location nearest you that can provide a flu shot, visit http://www.walgreens.com/topic/health-shops/flu-shots.jsp. CVS: To find a CVS Pharmacy location, visit http://www.cvs.com/promo/promoLandingTemplate.jsp?promoLandingId=flu. Jewel-Osco: You’re going to be getting groceries anyway – why not get vaccinated while you’re at the store? Visit https://svu.reportsonline.com/SVUSched/program/program165/Patient/Advisory to set up an appointment. Target Clinic: Target locations with Target Clinics provide flu vaccinations. To find a Target Clinic location near you, visit http://www.target.com/store-locator/find-clinic. Free flu vaccines in Chicago If you don’t have insurance or your insurance doesn’t cover flu vaccines, you aren’t out of luck. A number of clinics across the city offer flu vaccines free of cost. Please note that the locations below may have limited operating hours, so check with the City of Chicago website for hours and locations. Greater Lawn WIC Lower West WIC Roseland Community WIC Englewood Neighborhood Health Center Uptown Neighborhood Health Center Have you been vaccinated for the upcoming flu season? If not, do you plan to? Let us know in the comments! Brittney Lane Marketing & Communications Chicago Skilled Nursing Chicago Senior Living
When are Retail Health Clinics the Best Option for Health Care?
Convenient care clinics – walk-in clinics that are located in places like drugstores and grocery stores – can be a great option if you need to receive treatment for minor illnesses or preventative health care. With clinics popping up at retailers across the country, such as Walgreens, CVS and Target, you may be wondering if they are worth visiting. Services offered by retail health clinics According to the Washington Post, retail walk-in clinics treat a variety of non-life-threatening but frequent illnesses, including bronchitis, mononucleosis, sinus infections and minor injuries. Retail clinics can be a particularly great resource for seniors. The month of September is Senior Vaccination Month at the CVS Minute Clinic. Flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccinations, among many others, are available throughout the year. While minor illnesses and vaccinations make up a large chunk of treatments currently provided by these clinics, the Institute for HealthCare Consumerism says that we should expect a wider breadth of health services from retail health providers in the near future. They noted that “Walgreens announced it was expanding the scope of services provided at its retail clinics to include assessment, treatment and management for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma and others, as well as additional preventive health services.” Medical care, made more convenient While your doctor’s office may be open from 8-5, medical care is often needed outside of regular working hours. Retail clinics operate for longer hours than traditional doctors’ offices, with an average of 12 hours a day during the week and eight hours a day on the weekend. Holly McDonald, CVS Caremark/MinuteClinic state practice manager, Georgia, says that half of the patients that come to the CVS Minute Clinic when their traditional physician office is not open. In addition to expanded hours, clinic locations are convenient. A third of the population lives within 10 miles of a retail clinic, putting health care closer to many who may not be close to a standalone physician’s office. When should you visit your regular physician or an emergency room? While these convenient care clinics can be a great resource for many common ailments, it’s important to remember that they are not always the most appropriate provider of care if you are suffering from certain life-threatening or complex symptoms. For example, if you are suffering from chest pains, you should visit an emergency room for proper care. More complex medical issues – including prolonged symptoms that have yet to receive a diagnosis – may be more appropriate for your traditional doctor, who has a more in-depth knowledge of your medical background and a wider breadth of available resources in-office. Have you visited a health clinic within your local pharmacy, grocery store or big box retailer? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! Brittney Lane Marketing & Communications Chicago Skilled Nursing Chicago Senior Living
Stay Healthy and Active with Up-to-Date Immunizations
Although people often talk about vaccinations in reference to babies and young children, the truth is that staying up-to-date on immunizations is important at all stages of life. Immunizations are crucial to staying healthy as an older adult, and as this month is National Immunization Awareness Month, it’s a great time to make sure you’re staying on top of your immunization needs. Why are vaccines important to seniors? Immunizations can improve your quality of life by protecting your body from disease. For example, a quick flu shot can help you avoid the discomfort and lost time that goes along with catching the flu. For seniors, this is especially important because even a relatively mild illness can lead to chronic complications. Did you know that there are also vaccinations available only to older adults to protect against diseases most common in seniors? For example, adults 65 and older can receive a shot that protects against pneumonia, meningitis and related infections. Adults over 60 are also eligible for the shingles vaccine, as they are at a greater risk for the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, “one out of every three people 60 years old or older will get shingles.” In some of these people, shingles leads to long-term, debilitating pain and other complications. The shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of shingles and shingles complications. Getting your own vaccines protects your loved ones, too. Staying on top of your immunizations not only protects you, but also helps prevent the spread of illness or disease to your friends and family. How can I stay on top of my immunizations? National Immunization Awareness Month is a great time to ask your doctor if all of your vaccines are up-to-date. Although you may have been vaccinated against common illnesses as a child, immunity can fade over time and must be renewed. A doctor can also discuss with you whether particular vaccines are appropriate given your individual health needs or complications. Once you get caught up on what you need, plan ahead so that you will not fall behind in the future. There are tools available to help you keep track of your vaccine schedule. The CDC provides a general schedule for adult vaccines that you should print out and post in your home for an easy reminder. If you have a smartphone, you can also use any calendar app to set reminders for routine immunizations, and can even download immunization apps to learn more about specific vaccines. The free app Vaccines on the Go: What You Should Know provides important information about adult vaccines. It includes information about types of vaccines and the diseases they prevent. The app also has information about special considerations and common side effects to keep you informed throughout the immunization process. This month, take control of your own health by talking to your doctor about the appropriate immunizations for you. While you’re at it, remind your friends and family of the importance of staying healthy by preventing disease through immunizations as well. Karoline HutsonDirector Chicago Skilled NursingChicago Senior Living
How to Make Flying with Seniors a Breeze
Traveling with your loved ones is one of the most special ways to spend time together. Certain aspects of traveling with older adults, including flying, can present unique challenges in your journey. In order to make travel a breeze, we suggest the following tips. Request special airport services in advance With advanced planning, a trip to the airport can be made much easier with special services provided by airports and airlines. The New York Times explains that wheelchairs should be requested when booking airline tickets. In the event that you were unable to request a wheelchair while booking, call the airline at least 48 hours prior to your flight to arrange for wheelchair services. When you arrive at the airport, let the ticket agent know about your request. From there, you or your flying partner will be escorted to your gate in a wheelchair. Often times you or your travel companion may be healthy enough to walk, but unable to walk fast or for sustained periods of time. This can make for a stressful airport experience, especially if you are rushing to get to your gate. If this is the case, many larger airports offer electric carts to move fliers around the airport quickly. You won’t need to reserve an electric cart – simply ask your ticket agent where to get one. Arrive early Even with a reserved wheelchair or intentions of hopping on an electric cart, you’ll still need to plan for extra time to get around at the airport. You can never guess if you’ll be waiting for your wheelchair or if it will be ready and waiting when you get there, but you can get to the airport early just in case. American Airlines suggests arriving at the airport 90 minutes prior to departure when checking bags. When traveling with an elderly passenger, especially if it is during a peak travel period, arriving even earlier is highly advisable. Stay healthy during your flight Airplanes can be a breeding ground for bad health, with the risk of illness increasing with the length of the flight. Older adults are often especially susceptible to the unhealthy conditions on flights. Luckily, a bit of preparation can help keep your travel companion feeling great. One common yet easily preventable issue that fliers may encounter is dehydration. Dehydration is caused by the lack of humidity in an aircraft. The plane’s dry air has a humidity level much lower than typical indoor humidity levels; according to Everyday Health, the average humidity level of an airplane cabin is between 10 and 20 percent. Without much humidity, the mucus in your airway isn’t as moist as it should be to help trap germs entering the body, leaving you with an increased risk of catching a cold. Because of this, it’s important to be well hydrated. Start increasing the amount of water you drink 24 hours before your flight, and choose water (instead of dehydrating beverages such as soda or alcohol) during your flight. Another health risk fliers should be aware of are blood clots. Sitting for long periods of time can increase the risk of blood clots. To help keep your blood moving, it is advisable to get up and stretch during the flight. USA Today suggests wearing loose fitting clothing and compression socks. Compression socks can help stimulate blood circulation in the feet, making it a great option for those unable to easily get up and move around the cabin. Have you flown with an elderly family member or loved one? What tips do you have to keep your airport and airplane experience as stress-free as possible? Let us know in the comments! Brittney Lane Marketing & CommunicationsChicago Skilled NursingChicago Senior Living
How to Make Your Next Move More Manageable
Moving is an exciting yet challenging transition, as almost any person can tell you. Who hasn’t experienced a wide array of emotions before, during and after the process? Moving can be a daunting task, even under the best conditions, and making a move later in life can be even more stressful. If you are helping an older adult transition from one living space to another, these tips can help make the experience more manageable. Start early and slowly, with more time set aside than you think you’ll need A month or two before the move, sit down and begin to sort through spaces such as basements or attics, which often go untouched for months or years at a time. Make lists of what will stay and what will go. Time spent together will mean a lot to that person during what is almost certainly a challenging transition. Be patient about preferences for how the move should work, and listen for any concerns that you can alleviate ahead of moving day. Organization is key Make a list of all the things that you need to get done. While packing, keep similar pieces together and label boxes by room or function in order to minimize the confusion and disarray that can happen when unpacking later on. For mementos like photo albums, label boxes by period of time and make sure they are sealed tightly to protect them from humidity and other potential damage. Prioritize Whether you are going through items or rooms, take care to sort through it all at a manageable pace. If that is not possible due to time constraints or other restrictions, prioritize must-have items and memorabilia; setting them aside will display respect and attentiveness. Break down big tasks – like a china cabinet deconstruction – into smaller ones, like wrapping the china (something an older adult may be able to help with). You can also leave some tasks to the pros, like disassembling and moving the cabinet. Help them make their new environment a home If you packed everything up nicely, it won’t take long to unpack some of the things that will help make a new place feel like home. Decide where important photos will hang, which shelves will store the coffee mugs and how to make the new bathroom layout work. If you are helping older adults who have mobility issues, make sure you help set up assistive features of the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom so they can feel safe and maintain some independence as they get acclimated to the new environment. Tricia MullinDirector of Community RelationsChicago Skilled NursingChicago Senior Living
Surviving Family Reunions
Family reunions are the perfect time to announce big news, celebrate wins and share your losses with the people you love the most. They can also be quite stressful. If you feel a mix of excitement and anxiety when you see the date getting closer on your calendar, you’re not alone
