Step by Step Guide to Finding Assisted Living Facilities For Elderly Care

Choosing a facility for your aging parent, friend or family member can be a vast responsibly. The longer and elderly person can stay independent the better, but there comes a time in their lives that they will need special care and attention that can only be provided by a caregiver or an assisted living facility.

Caregivers are normally a first option as this will allow the person to stay in his or her own home or that of a family member or friend. Unfortunately caregivers are an expensive option and it is not affordable for many older people or their families.

The next option is to look at a care facility that will be able to meet the needs of the person.

Assisted care is less intensive than nursing home care, where licensed nurses are required staff.

In assisted care the elderly person will have an own room, studio or apartment. They will also have access to certain services, such as meals, social and wellness activities. If they need help with daily tasks such as bathing, getting dressed or combing hair there will be people to help with that.

Many assisted living facilities have libraries, swimming pools, small shops, hairdressers and other services that will allow the elderly very much the same living conditions they had while living in their own home.

It is very important to allow the elderly person to be part of the decision making. Remember what they need and what you think they need are not always the same. They might prefer a smaller place with less people even if it is not as smart and luxurious as other bigger facilities. They might want to go to a place where they already know people or have friends or family members living.

Seek advice from doctors, spiritual leaders or family and friends in the same situation.

Take the elderly person's medical condition into consideration. Make sure emergency medical services are close by and available. Living somewhere in the country, close to friends or family, might not be such a good idea if these services are not available.

Affordability is also a main consideration. If the elderly person doesn't have the means to pay for this facility you should find out if there are grants available or if an affluent friend or family member can maybe assist.

Some of the services provided at facilities maybe excluded from the given price. Be sure you know exactly what is included and what extra fees will come to.

Making the right choice will ensure many happy years to come for your elderly loved one.

Marketing to Senior Citizens - Assume Nothing!

Once upon a time, senior citizens were old people. They were assumed to be suffering from ill health and in need of care. They sold their homes so they could move in with children or move to a care facility. Not any more.

Now senior citizens exhibit the same variety of health and fitness as people much younger. In fact, those who have actively taken care of themselves are probably more fit than those in their teens and 20's who shun exercise and live on junk food.

So, assume nothing, because senior citizens come in many varieties, with many different goals.

Many choose to remain in their homes, while others want a change of scenery. But even those want to sell have different reasons.

Some want to get away from excessive maintenance chores. They'll choose a smaller home with a smaller yard - or perhaps a condo. They may be in failing health, but don't assume so. They may just want to pursue hobbies or take up volunteer work or be free to travel. Many have something they want to do that they couldn't do before, and they don't want to be tied down by a high maintenance home.

Others want to find a new home with a large yard, or even acreage, so they can take up gardening or buy a horse or raise dogs.

Some just want to get away! They'll sell the old homestead and move into a motor home so they can see the places they've been dreaming about for all those years when they were tied to work.

Some want to move to a more temperate climate - they're tired of the cold and snow and want to get outdoors and play all year. Some have always dreamed of living on a lake or in the mountains or on the desert. Some wanted to get away to a small town with a slower pace - or to move to a city with opera houses and art galleries and the theater. But until now, they were stuck because they were afraid to move away from their work. Now they can go where they want.

Of course, there still are those seniors who are selling because they do need to move in with the kids or to an assisted living facility.

Your job as an agent is to not assume anything. If you want to sort your lists, set up a capture on your website with information about downsizing to a smaller home, and a separate capture with information about transitioning to assisted living. You could even have different pages on your site - just like you might have different pages and different information for first time buyers and move-up buyers.

When you get a call to list a home for a senior citizen, go with no pre-set ideas. Wait and talk to the homeowner before you try to anticipate just what kind of assistance they need. Otherwise, you'll risk alienating a new client before you get a chance to show your stuff!

Losing a Child - A Parent's Worst Nightmare

The older we become, death becomes eminent. It is something we can not escape and the only thing we can be sure of, other than paying taxes. When someone passes away, sadness overtakes us until we realize it is their appointed time to say good-bye. However, the death of a child is something entirely different. Last month, I recall reading the daily news... There it was, Section C, column 4, page 15; a parents worst nightmare! Three deceased children.

I tried to envision how horrible it must have been for the parents to learn their children were gone forever and how feverishly the medical personnel worked to save their childrens lives. The police said their deaths could have been avoided. Although the families did not know one another, they were bound together by circumstance and desperate to make sense of the tragedies that had befallen them. One child died in a car accident; a daughter from a drug overdose, and another boy, from a gunshot wound to his chest. Sadly, his best friend accidentally shot him while they were playing Russian roulette with his big brothers gun.

Work and play are verbs that are relative to one another. We all do them, some enjoy them, others prefer one over the other. But, death, is an acronym for "Despite Everyones' Attempt To Help"..... It is a omen that foretells an end to a set of circumstance as we know it, yet heralds a new beginning and step into the unknown. Whatever its formal meaning, it portrays exactly what we all believe it to mean; the finality of a situation.

Children are chosen by God and given to us as gifts. They are presented to parents to raise, teach and love. They are not ours to possess or keep; they are loaned. Parents believe we are here for our children, but in reality, they are here for us. Children are the teachers of patience, givers of wisdom and the reason for the skip in our steps. They are the reasons why we live and why we fight to survive deaths forerunners called, cancer, heart attacks, drug addiction and even suicide.

"Time heals all wounds," is another common analogy used to placate another whenever we are lost for words, or we do not know what to say to comfort them. It is tomorrows hope that somehow they will survive whatever tragedy has befallen them. Parents who have lost children know that "time" is like a diamond, and has many facets. It has the ability to make us wiser, less trusting or older. It can also bring with it promises of a new tomorrow, fresh ideas or another tragedy. It holds in its hand the perception of a glass half empty vs. a glass half full. Whatever its true meaning, one thing is clear; any parent who survives the loss of a child will never be the same.

Finding the Right Nursing Home for Your Loved One

No one enjoys the process of finding a nursing home for their loved one, but when their health is deteriorating before their eyes, the time may have come to find the right nursing home for them. There are four steps that you may want to follow when considering nursing homes for the ones you love:

The first step that you need to take when deciding on the best nursing home is simply determining whether or not one is necessary. If you notice that your loved one is losing weight or experiencing memory loss, you should have him or her evaluated by a geriatrician. The doctor will assess whether or not they can dress themselves, eat, without assistance, or if they falls frequently. The physician will also check for early signs of dementia.

If the evaluation determines that a home is necessary, you need to compile a list of nursing homes to consider.

Some things you should look for are:

- Distance from you. You don't want your loved one to feel isolated from their family, and you can check on the quality of care they are receiving.

- History of care quality. You want to check for nursing homes that have a higher ranking, while keeping in mind that these will be the most sought after, and will likely have a waiting list. You can find this information on state health department websites.

- Keep count of the caregivers and their schedules. The more caregivers that a home has, the greater the likelihood that it will have better care.

- Find an advocate. This person will know about the various nursing homes, and may also help you get into the better ones. They will also know where to go to find the necessary information on each nursing home's care and safety.

The next thing you should do is visit each of the finalists. While you are visiting, the administrators questions that are tailored to the needs of your loved one. You should also vary your visits to different days and times. Things to look for are a full parking lot, the sounds of visitors, how the staff relates to the patients, how the residents play and eat, and unpleasant smells.

Finally, once you have moved your loved one into his or her new home, you need to visit occasionally so that you can monitor their care. You should expect an adjustment period while your loved one gets used to the new surroundings. During these visits make note of any changes to your loved one's health, disposition, and appearance. If you notice any problems, calmly bring it to the attention of the administrators, as it may be something that they were not aware of.

Nursing Homes and Elder Abuse

Elder abuse in assisted living homes is a horrible thing, yet it still occurs today. Most recently, the Florida state government has responded to help eliminate this practice. Because of "rampant" abuse across the entire state, Florida's lawmakers have proposed two bills that will crack down on elder abuse. More specifically, if a patient dies because of poor care, these bills would enforce mandatory penalties that would cause the home to shut down. In other cases, individual caretakers would be banned from their profession.

Florida lawmakers claim that the state was not doing its job properly, as exposed by a series of articles written in the Miami Herald. Now, Florida is looking to go from one of the most lenient states regarding care all the way up to one of the strictest states in the U.S.

It's about time. Elder abuse is something that many people believe does not go on anymore, but it is still a rampant practice; the most common type of abuse being neglect. In Florida, a lot of the attention has been on the elderly folks who have died because of their mismanagement, but elder abuse takes on many different forms. These can range from missed medications to infected bed sores. Whatever the form that the neglectful abuse takes its shape in it is a practice that needs to be more closely monitored. If a home or a worker is found to be abusing patients, mandatory punishments, such as those proposed by Florida lawmakers, need to be enforced.

This marks the biggest overhaul of this type within Florida in over four decades. With the protection measures for assisted living facility patients slowly being stripped away over the last few decades, it is high time for a new mandatory set of regulations.

The proposed laws would take away a home's license if a patient dies from "shoddy" care. They would also avoid settlements in cases of neglectful deaths. The maximum penalty would automatically be imposed upon these offenders. The minimum qualifications of workers would also be increased. Instead of just having a high school diploma, a caretaker would be required to have a college diploma with at least some course work in health fields. There would also be severe criminal penalties for fraudulently altering assisted living facility paperwork regarding patient care.

Florida is finally taking steps in the right direction. The care that elders receive often is taken for granted, but as the case in Florida suggests, this should no longer be the case. Elder abuse needs to be looked out for and it needs to be reported to the authorities when it does happen. There is no excuse for shoddy care, our parents and grandparents deserve the best care possible.

Moving Family to a Nursing Home - What to Bring

Moving is always a challenge. As long as you're organized and make a list of things to remember, it can be manageable. If you're moving a parent or loved one to a nursing home, chances are it will be more daunting because you've never done it before. Below is a list of things that nursing home staff say are often overlooked by families. Keep them in mind and you can make a loved one's stay more comfortable.

1. Clothing for at least 7 days. Generally, residents moving into a nursing home are encouraged to bring in at least a week's worth of clothing changes. If a resident will be participating in a rehab or walking program, they are also encouraged to bring extra sweatshirts, sweatpants or jogging suits. Also, the shoe of choice for these programs has been the gym shoe with Velcro closures. Two or three pairs of non-skid socks may also be indicated. Various sweaters or jackets are also a good idea, so your loved one is comfortable in varying weather and room temperatures.

2. Leave the jewelry and valuables at home, with relatives or in a safe deposit box.

3. Shampoo and soap if the resident is sensitive or has brand preferences.

4. Personal touches for the resident's room such as pictures, quilts/blankets, clocks, calendars and decorative items. Make sure items are labeled with the resident's name.

5. Glasses, hearing aids and dentures. Make sure these items as well as their containers are labeled with the resident's name.

6. Radios or small TVs. Check with the nursing home to find out what sizes are appropriate or if these items are already provided. If you do bring them, make sure they are labeled with the resident's name.

7. Extra furniture and clothing. While these items go a long way for the comfort of your loved one, space in a nursing home is limited. Consult with the nursing home before you bring these items.

8. Phone and cable services. Consider whether the resident would benefit from having their own services and ask the nursing home how they are arranged within their facility.

9. Emergency contacts in an easily accessible list. Try laminating or using an inexpensive frame. Place it somewhere easy to access, yet is not readily viewable to visitors -- like inside a wardrobe door or bedside table drawer.

10. Address book to keep in contact with friends and family.

11. Laundry basket or hamper. This will keep the resident's room tidy and will be helpful if family will be doing the laundry.

12. Bladder control products. Products like Depends are a must-have if your loved one has loss of bladder or bowel control. Nursing homes generally supply cloth products but these can be less effective and may require more clothing on hand in the event of leaks.

Elder Care Trends You Might Not See in Your Personal Support Worker Course

You love the idea of making the golden years shine brighter for the elderly residents of nursing homes. You can't wait to start your personal support worker (PSW) courses, so that you can learn everything there is to know about assisting elderly residents in the tasks of daily living. But are you aware of all the trends in elder care that may impact your working life after you finish your personal support worker course? Here are five trends to watch for.

1. Ethnic-focused Old Age Homes

The Globe and Mail newspaper recently reported on the Yee Hong Centre for Geriatric Care in Ontario. This "caring community" is so popular that there is a five-year wait to get in to one of its homes. Its secret? It is one of the few old age homes in the Greater Toronto Area that caters specifically to Chinese Canadians. A recent job posting states that the Centre is seeking a "graduate of an approved Personal Support Worker course" with a "knowledge of Chinese." Most of the job postings ask for a similar combination of PSW courses and a knowledge of Chinese.

Graduates of PSW courses who work at the Yee Hong homes may find themselves accompanying residents to such culturally oriented activities as Chinese painting, Chinese opera and tai chi.

2. Chair Yoga

Upon graduation from your PSW courses, you may also be asked to accompany senior citizens to chair yoga classes. Many assisted living facilities offer this gentle form of yoga, which is practiced while seated in a chair. It is a way for seniors with limited mobility to experiment with yogic breathing and relaxation in a safe, supported setting.

3. Local Food in Institutional Food Services

According to Foodservice and Hospitality, a Canadian hospitality business magazine, a company called the 100 Mile Market in Kitchener, Ontario helps large institutional food services in hospitals and other healthcare facilities access locally grown food. Perhaps in the future, graduates of PSW courses will choose their employer based on the provenance of its veggies!

4. Pet Therapy

St. John Ambulance's Therapy Dog Services brings volunteer pets and their owners into nursing homes, where residents are not allowed to keep their own pets. The animals - usually dogs - are pre-screened and certified. It is meant to encourage bonds, promote healing and activate pleasant memories: all goals that are in line with what you will learn in your PSW courses.

5. Kindergarten Classes in Nursing Homes

As you will learn in your PSW courses, one of the biggest challenges for residents of old age homes is isolation. To combat this, some nursing homes have opened their day rooms to local kindergarten classes. In these programs, children typically spend one to two days a week at the nursing home, where the residents help them learn their letters, etc.

You may not learn about these trends in your personal support worker course, but many graduates of PSW courses will encounter them after graduation.

Paying For Care - Assisted Living Homes

More and more elderly people are opting to spend their golden years in an assisted living facility in lieu of living in a nursing home, with a family member, or at home, alone. One drawback to assisted living for many people who are interested in this type of living arrangement in the elder years is the financial burden of paying for care. In many cases an older adult has prepared well for their future and money may not be such a huge concern, unfortunately that scenario is not as prevalent as it should be. In too many cases the elder adult did some preparation but by far not enough and money is a concern.

There may come a time when an elder adult cannot live on their own any longer they need some help with day to day living activities. Assisted living homes are usually the perfect answer. Of course they are not free and require money to pay for.

Where to Find the Money for Assisted Living Homes

If the elder adult is a homeowner the home can be sold to raise capital to pay for the assisted living home, if they are not there are other options that are available. It can be a combination of financial backing that can be pooled together to pay for the residency.

There are some insurance policies that will cover for part of the care that is provided in adult group homes. Primarily the medical end of things will be covered. If the elder adult was fortunate enough to have some foresight and opted for an extended care option on their policy, then more services will be covered.

To pay for the rest of the care that insurance does not cover, retirement income can be used. Many folks get a check each month from retirement investments that they made with the company they worked with before they retired from. This can go toward the monthly payment as well. In almost every case even if there is not a retirement check coming in there will be some type of government check that is paid each month, this can also help to supplement the costs.

Liquefying assets are another way to find money to pay for this type of care. Selling off stocks and bonds, even selling off cars can raise the money that is needed to keep this option going for a while.

Family Members

In many cases the family members of the elder adult can kick in some money each month to help to offset the cost of paying for the assisted care homes. If there are multiple family members that can help with the costs, then the financial burden would be lightened considerably.

Paying the costs for assisted living homes can be met by pooling resources the cost can easily be met. It is well worth the cost and the effort to find a way to meet

Tips For Parents Looking For Home Nursing Care For a Special Needs Child

Children with medical complex conditions have different needs to be maintained in the home setting. These children need care focused on their medical diagnosis, activities of daily living, and their lack of growth and developmental abilities. Parents need equipment in the home setting that is in excellent working condition and in most cases, a back up plan for malfunction.

It can be an emotional and physical challenge to find safe and appropriate home care for a child with more than one need. Parents do not need a babysitter, but a qualified and trained skilled nurse in their home to care for the same needs the child would have if hospitalized. Parents need reliable companies to deliver and service things like feeding pumps, respiratory supplies, and life supporting ventilators and suction equipment. And above all, they need skilled nurses they can trust to use the equipment properly and render the care their child needs in the comfort of the childs home setting.

What Parents need to know...? Parents looking for excellent skilled care for their child in the home setting might consider these tips:

1. Check on how an agency is accredited and don't be afraid to ask what state and federal guidelines an agency follows to be a provider of pediatric skilled care.

2. Ask how an agency trains the nursing staff and how they monitor the skills of the caregivers who come to a home. An agency who claims to provide skilled care for children should have a pediatric specific orientation plan and skills education program in place and should not be afraid to share it with the parents of the child they hope to care for.

3. Seek agencies that provide pediatric specific care and who have skilled nurses who have the experience needed to meet the child's needs. Most adult care nurses would need extra training to care for a medically complex child so make certain the nurses from the agency you choose are trained specifically for pediatric home care.

4. Choose equipment supply companies that employ respiratory therapists and nurses as part of their staff. Those companies have a better understanding of the child's needs and the importance of properly functioning equipment. Monitor the company response time when you have a question about equipment and don't be afraid to change companies from the one assigned at the hospital to a company of your choosing. Service is everything when your child depends on the machine to breath and survive. You must expect excellence.

Use these tips to get the care your child needs and the excellence you deserve when bringing your special needs child home. Children with special needs reach growth and developmental milestones and require less hospitalization when home care is provided by skilled nursing and reliable equipment companies. Make certain you child is receiving both to ensure their successful transition from hospital to home.

Gone Fishing - The Struggles of Retirement

How is retirement? It must be good to be able to sleep in each morning. I envy you. Do you have any travel plans? How is your golf game? I have heard these comments many times in the last six months, and as I respond, I deal with a flood of feelings and thoughts. It is assumed that I have come to that time of life when I can take it easy, do as I please, and wait until God calls me home to glory. Retirement is perceived by some to be a soft life with no more workplace responsibilities. Life goals are complete. These questions can be interpreted as demeaning, degrading, or even condescending, especially by the person who has had an active life. That person may respond with anger, feeling put down, and with disgust over others lack of understanding. The dictionary does not help by defining retire in this manner: to withdraw from business or public life so as to live at leisure on one's income, savings, or pension. Many of the misperceptions of retirement are created by people who have reached this stage of life. They may say, I have been there, done that, and I don't want to be involved, or Don't ask me to do anything I have done my time. They may carry an aura of bitterness at being set aside. Some have held prestigious positions, and suddenly they feel they have lost their identities. What is my worth my value? It is easier to withdraw. Many become depressed. But the biblical view of retirement is vastly different from these views. Old age is to be a position of honor and respect. With age comes wisdom. Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord (Lev. 19:32). Listen, my sons, to a fathers instruction; pay attention and gain understanding (Prov. 4:1). They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green (Ps. 92:14). Retirement is getting off the freeway and enjoying the country roads. It is a time of growth and change, of refocusing, retooling, and renewal. But above all it is a time of reflection, contemplation, meditation, and prayer.

My first retirement took place in my late 50s after 30 years in the public education arena. I had experienced fulfillment as a school psychologist, an administrator, an adjunct college professor, and a marriage and family therapist. The prospect of a leisurely life flashed its seductive beams my way, but God in his wisdom placed in my pathway opportunities that were more appealing to me. Heeding the Holy Spirits nudges, I seized the day carpe diem. The next 10 years proved to be the most fulfilling of my life! My very diversified career preparations suddenly came together into a meaningful whole. The old mans dream spoken of by the prophet Joel (2:28) and reinforced by the apostle Peter on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17) came into fruition. Programs became realities, people were blessed, and the power of God's presence filled me with abundant joy. Yet at every stage of development, life presents its problems. This is especially true with the Christian life. The Scriptures never depict this life as one of ease or as a bed of roses. We are called to participate in the sufferings of Christ in order that we can share in his glory (2 Cor. 1:5; 1 Peter 3:14, 17; 4:1, 12-19). The apostle Paul often wrote of the hardships he suffered as a servant of Jesus Christ, but he also rejoiced in the comfort and blessings he received in abundance. In like manner, the Christian counselor must be cautious about portraying the good life over 60. These years can be the happiest years of a seasoned citizen's life, filled with opportunities for inventiveness and creativity. Yet the retirement years can also be fraught with health, emotional, and financial problems.

*The Counselors Role*
The Christian counselor can play a significant role in helping the prospective retiree redefine the term retirement. As life expectancy increases and Baby Boomers age, the number of persons over 65 will
increase dramatically. Retirement can be a time of joy, hope, and fulfillment. Granted, there will be financial problems for some, the scourge of depression and loneliness for others, problems brought on by physical disabilities and poor health for still others. Yet the astute counselor can guide a concerned individual into a change of attitude in dealing with these issues. The role of the Christian counselor is to provide a solid platform upon which to build a strong behavioral structure for the individual who is approaching retirement. Help the client to redefine the words freedom, productivity, and time in terms that are relevant to his or her new life style. Freedom is the greatest gift retirement gives freedom to follow one's own interests, pursue one's dreams, develop one's talents, and discover new avenues of fulfillment; freedom to do those things one has always wanted to do. But freedom can be abused if used as an escape from purposeful endeavors. Freedom defined within the spiritual realm can take on new meaning. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Gal. 5:1). Proper use of this newfound freedom can provide the space needed to make new discoveries about one's abilities and talents.

Productivity within the world of work provided a means of financial gain, but in retirement, the product of a person's endeavor may bring not monetary reward but the personal satisfaction of achievement in a whole new vista never before explored. The pressure of earning a living is now off, and retired people can start to live freer, more elective lives. Motivation to produce is now a free choice, without the fear of failure or disapproval. Be willing to take a risk. It may not always be in the persons comfort zone, but it can open up new avenues which lead to aliveness, bringing a new freshness to his or her day. Time takes on a whole new dimension. The eight-hour workday can be decreased or expanded by whatever the task at hand requires. Flexibility becomes the key word in reference to time. Quantity and quality of sleep are very Important for the person who is growing older. If an evening's activity extends to late night hours, the flexible schedule allows for sleeping in the next morning. However, it is easy to flounder when time is not anchored to a specific mooring, especially when no parameters are set for the day.

Guidance is needed to help the prospective retiree establish goals, a purpose in life, and a strategic plan for the future. It is good to have something to get up for in the morning. One advantage of retirement is
that one can devote more time and energy to the things one considers Important. For some, it may be difficult to set long-range goals. Affirm them in establishing short-term retirement goals, perhaps planning no more than a year ahead. A real service is provided to prospective retirees by helping them anticipate the inevitable bumps in the road. A knowledge of the problem areas that may be encountered will help establish coping power to deal with them and perhaps avoid late-life crises. As we grow older, we know that eventually we can expect physical decline and debilitation. But the apostle Paul tells us not to lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (2 Cor. 4:16-17). When our physical bodies begin to seem more like burdens than blessings, as persons of faith, we have the assurance that the life of Jesus is working within us that God may be glorified. It is easy for elderly people to perseverate on the state of their health. It can become an obsession, the primary topic of conversation. People can become so preoccupied with their health that there is little else about which to talk. And the more they talk, the higher the anxiety level. Joy and contentment are possible even when health is fragile and waning. We do not need perfect health to be productive. There are people of all ages who have learned how to live with disabilities. My mother-in-law was confined to a recliner and wheelchair 24 hours a day. Yet in her 80s, she was still extremely active, conducting Bible studies, editing a newspaper for the nursing home, and ministering to individuals of all ages. It was a joy to be in her presence. As Robert Seymour says in his excellent book, Aging without Apology, It is a good thing to have health, but our obsession with health is unhealthy.

*Emotional Problems in Retirement Years*
Equally debilitating as physical ailments are the emotional problems that occur in later life. Retirement is often considered a period of loss: loss of good health and physical strength; loss of work, income, and prestige; loss of relatives and friends through death. Grief over these losses can dominate every aspect of a person's behavior to a point of complete inertia. The loss of a lifelong mate where attachments have been strong can be devastating. As with all losses, a strong support group of caring individuals who are adept at listening and limited on advice-giving will help alleviate the emotional pain. If this grief is not appropriately dealt with, it may evolve into withdrawal, loneliness, and depression.

Loneliness and depression are two of the most frequently encountered emotional problems among the elderly. The active individual who is suddenly thrust into an environment where vital relationships are not present feels the aloneness and the personal lack of significance. Depression then presents itself in many varieties. An excellent discussion of these varieties can be found in Emotional Problems in Later Life: Intervention Strategies for Professional Care givers, 2nd edition, by Dan Blazer, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Dean of Medical Education at Duke University Medical Center. This book is a tremendous resource for dealing with all emotional problems experienced by the elderly. Many seniors also have serious concerns about their financial situation. Will there be sufficient funds to care for my bills? they ask. It is true some have limited old_resources, but many, if properly counseled, can live comfortably as long as they are judicious in their spending. Everyone should start early in making wise investments for the later years. Also, long-term insurance is wise in order to avoid depleting savings with costly nursing-home care if it should be required. Many reputable investment firms provide inexpensive seminars and literature that can be very helpful. There is an initial difficult time in retirement of making the transition from a monthly paycheck to retirement funds. Spending must be significantly reduced but, with creative planning, the life style need not change. The Christian counselor has guided many through the stormy waters of a mid-life crisis. Now the opportunity presents itself to assist the aging individual into a new stage of life, a stage that can bring new opportunities for fulfillment and joy. Instead of a period to be dreaded, it can be an adventurous journey to explore new areas of endeavor.

*Stage of Spirituality*
Perhaps this stage of life should be referred to as the Stage of Spirituality. It is a time in which to allow God to do his perfect work in us, molding us more and more into the Image of his dear Son. The seasoned senior has the opportunity to grow in the area of the spiritual disciplines, as is so poignantly described in Richard Fosters book, Celebration of Discipline. There is time now to contemplate and meditate on the riches of God's grace, his majesty and glory. The most Important ministry at this time of life is prayer, constantly communicating with the Father on behalf of others. We have been given the responsibility to tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done (Ps. 78:4). New opportunities of this nature are now being developed in many areas. Elder Quest is developing an institute where college students are paired with seasoned seniors for an intergenerational week of dialogue and fellowship. A pilot program will be held on the campus of Palm Beach Atlantic College in the spring of 2000. Elder Quest also provides stimulating programs for older people at various Christian conference centers throughout the country. Not only is this an opportunity for Christian fellowship but a time to explore God's Word as well as other areas of interest. Focus on the Family has just begun a new ministry to those who are over 50 and entitled it, appropriately, Focus over Fifty. Their new publication, Life Wise, should be a tremendous resource for seniors. As Christian counselors, let us encourage those entering the retirement years to keep active spiritually, mentally, and physically. Let us help restore the older person to a biblical position of honor, respect, and dignity. Seasoned seniors will encounter many roadblocks on their journey, but even as the apostle Paul struggled with his thorn in the flesh and
pleaded with the Lord to take it away, the Lord responded, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). God's grace is sufficient for all of us, no matter what the situation might be. Prospective retirees and their counselors can rejoice! The best is yet to be! Online Christian Counseling is a nice way to get suggestions.

Winter Is a Popular Season for Slip and Fall Lawyers

Ice, snow and sleet are recipes for disaster when it comes to safety during winter months, and staying on two feet can be a challenge for people of any age when these conditions are present. This is why it's important to understand slip and fall lawsuits, and how serious these accidents can be.

Slipping and falling, especially in icy conditions, can cause severe injury and sometimes even death. In 2009, 212,760 work-related injury cases involved falls, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. In addition, in 2006 there were 52 fatal injuries from a fall due to a floor, walkway or surface.

Those numbers don't even include the falls that happened outside of the workplace. In some instances people will slip and fall on someone else's property, or at a business. Regardless, people who have suffered significant injuries from slipping and falling could potentially be compensated, depending on the following circumstances:

Circumstances that warrant a lawsuit:

• The owner of the property or business has caused the spill, or was responsible for creating the slippery or dangerous surface that created the fall. For example throwing water out on the sidewalk on a cold day, letting a hose or water run on a driveway during winter etc.
• The owner knew about the dangerous surface, such as ice on the steps or snow piled in front of the door, and did nothing about it, when he or she realized that it was dangerous.
• The owner of the property or business should have known about the problem, and it can be proven that another "reasonable" person would have discovered it and repaired it or fixed it.

Circumstances that do NOT warrant a lawsuit:

• The conditions, or surface, where the fall took place were naturally occurring conditions. This would include a natural slop to the surface of the ground, a drainage grate or a manhole
• The natural conditions were those in which the property or business owner could not possibly have prevented or kept under control at all times. This would include a sidewalk during a rainstorm or snow showers.
• The fall was due to the pedestrian not paying attention or being distracted.

There can be a fine line as to whether the circumstances that caused a slip and fall accident warrant a lawsuit, therefore, someone looking to file a lawsuit based on a slip and fall accident should seek the help of an attorney.

A personal injury attorney or slip and fall lawyer would be able to handle this type of lawsuit and help the victim decide if another person is to blame for their fall and injuries. Personal injury attorneys are familiar with their state's procedures and are also familiar with workplace laws and the types of insurance workplaces already provide for slip and fall accidents.

Although slip and fall lawyers can help provide compensation for an accident that was the fault of another, the best way to handle slip and fall lawsuits is to avoid them, especially during the winter. Property owners should maintain the safety of their property during the winter; shovel snow off of stairs, walkways and driveways and make it a habit to check the property for potential hazards. Pedestrians should be mindful of weather conditions and pay attention to where they are walking, limiting distractions in hazardous conditions.

Available Options in Litigation Funding

Litigation in any form can prove to be an extremely expensive process. Especially in the case of personal injury claims, where the plaintiffs aren't always affording; it is preferred that the ICBC claims lawyer that is hired is on a contingent fee basis. This means that the attorney does not receive any compensation until the case is successfully settled, and typically his or her fees involve a pre-decided percentage of the money that is settled upon.

Many a times law firms advance money for the cost of litigation or plaintiff's find it difficult to identify a lawyer who would be willing to work on a contingent fee. In such cases, the plaintiff is expected to make a significant about of personal expenses which may or may not require support from external funds.

Since it is against the ethics of law for the lawyer himself to lend the plaintiff any money, here are some viable funding options one can choose from -

1. Pre-Settlement Lawsuit Loans

Considered to be an opportunity much like venture capitalism, a large number of litigation funding companies have cropped up over the last couple of years. These companies offer funding packages in the form of 'lawsuit loans' which is in simple words the provision of sufficient money to get you to the end of a case, when you hope to receive a decent amount in settlement.

In these cases, the advances received are offered in the form of 'non-recourse' financing; which means that the plaintiff is not obligated to pay back more than the share of the settlement and if in case your case id dismissed or the judgement is in favour of the defendant, the plaintiff need not pay anything to the funding company.

The only drawback of opting for this source of funding is the high funding fees associated. It is important that you gauge all your options well before you identify a single funding company. Make sure you consult your lawyer and other trusted advisors before making any major decisions.

2. Personal Loans

If the plaintiff has a satisfactory credit history, it is not an impossible task for one to obtain a personal loan for the litigation at an affordable rate of interest. The success of acquiring funding through this route primarily relies on your credit history and your relationship with the lending institution.

Make sure that the fees on interest rate through funding option do not exceed that offered by other funding modes such as the lawsuit loan.

Sometimes in spite of the high interest rates of lawsuit loans, you may realize that it is comparably cheaper to opt for those than personal loans especially in a situation where you are unable to make your payments due to a settlement which isn't in your favour.

In addition to this, you can also approach family members and loved ones who may be generous with you in your time of need. You can reassure your family in the presence and cooperation of your lawyer that they will be repaid out of the share that you receive. You can also consider opting for a home equity loan or other such loans that make use of your assets as collateral.

Hiring A Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Is The Way to Go

Many people are under the impression that the legal system is broken and extremely inadequate. These are the people who have witnessed the faults of the justice system firsthand. They may have been a victim of assault or theft, only to find out that the defendant ended up walking away with little to no consequences. So, in order to ensure personal justice, they decided that they would never again trust another lawyer. This way of thinking can lead to many mistakes in the handling of court cases. If your loved one has been the victim of elder neglect, this mindset can be particularly damaging, as a nursing home abuse attorney could really help them get the compensation and justice they deserve.

For these people, when it's time for them to go up against someone in the court of law, they may take things into their own hands. In their eyes, no one else is capable of handling the situation as well as they can. They are happy to represent themselves. In their eyes, nothing is worse than spending money on a lawyer. Then, there are those who would rather bypass the legal system altogether. This will allow them to create their own form of justice.

One particular instance where someone could decide not to seek legal assistance is in the case of elder neglect. They may find out that their elderly parent or grandparent has been mistreated and abused while staying at a nursing facility. Finding out this type of information is enough to make anyone angry. However, the smartest thing wouldn't be for them to take matters into their own hands, either by arguing their own case in court or otherwise. Choosing not to hire a nursing home abuse attorney, in this case, could be one of the worst decisions the person could make.

By taking matters into their own hands, the person is doing their victimized loved one a huge disservice. A nursing home abuse attorney can help to make sure that the victim gets fairly compensated for their injuries, expenses and pain and suffering. This lawyer can also help to make sure the abuser is actually brought to justice, and is unable to neglect or victimize any other people in the future.

So, although seeking vigilante justice may seem like a better idea than hiring a nursing home abuse attorney; it actually is the worst route someone can take. Of course, the legal system has its flaws. However, when all is said and done, justice is usually served.

Visiting Angels Franchise Review - Franchise Facts

Introduction:Jeffrey Johnson worked as the Director of the Social Work department in a Baltimore nursing home in the Maryland area in the 1980's. During his tenure at the nursing home, he listened to families expressing their frustration about the limited options and alternatives available in the assisted living centers or nursing facilities. This motivated Jeffrey Johnson to start Visiting Angels in the year 1992. Visiting Angels was set up to provide facilities to seniors citizens through in-home caregivers who are experienced in this field.

In 1998, three other directors joined Jeffrey and established Visiting Angels home care agencies into a nationwide network. Two of the directors had extensive experience in operating private duty that was non-medical through self-owned home care agencies. In a period of just 4 years, this goal of the company had been realized completely.

Philosophy of the Franchise:The philosophy of the directors of the Visiting Angels has always been related to their business of care giving. They believe that their business should provide senior citizens, as well as other people who are in need of home care, the best care and facilities possible while completely respecting the group of the care-giving staff. The directors believe that their network of Visiting Angels franchises of home care agencies should have the best training and support possible. This will help them in providing top-quality care to elderly clients wherever the need comes up. This has made Visiting Angels the "America's Choice in Homecare".

Business Operations:The franchise business is very strong. As a senior market company, it is very clear that this will give you an opportunity where you can learn more and your growth factor will be permanent. Visiting Angels can be a good franchise option for you if you are looking forward to the senior and basic health care industry. This senior industry is not only a profitable service but also a growing industry for many. The Visiting Angels missions are to be independent and give dignity to their customers by giving them service of the highest level, helping to keep them in private home care, as well as to have responsible managers. All of these facilities come at a very reasonable price. As there is a growth in the population, the needs of inexpensive, but quality care services are also on the rise.

This franchise can be an excellent choice for those who are looking to contribute to the senior market.

Cost and Fees:

Total Investment to be paid initially: $51,800-$78,900

Royalty Fee which has to be paid: 2.95%-2%

Initial Franchise Fee which has to be paid: $25,990-$47,200

Term of Agreement: 10 years

Renewal Fee: $2.5K

Advertising Fees: N/A

Visiting Angels is a good option for those who want to invest in the senior care market. Make your choice and contribute to the senior care industry.

Assisted Living - A Brief History and Definition

Assisted living residences are sometimes referred to as assisted living facilities (ALFs). They supervise or assist with activities of daily living (ADLs). In addition, the residence frequently coordinates with third party healthcare and service providers on the resident's behalf.

Examples of assistance might include the administration or supervision of prescribed medication, or personal care services provided by a trained staff person or outside service provider.

Assisted living emerged in the 1990's as the next step of continuing care for people who cannot live independently in a private residence, but who also do not require the 24-hour medical care provided by a nursing home. Many senior living providers promote the Assisted Living designation as a philosophy of care and services that foster independence and dignity. The costs associated with this enhanced level of care can vary widely based on geography, services, and need.

There is no nationally recognized definition of assisted living. Assisted Living facilities are regulated and licensed at the state level. More than two-thirds of the states use the licensure term "assisted living." Other terms intended to relay this same level of care include Residential Care Home, Assisted Care Living Facilities, and Personal Care Homes. Each state licensing agency has its own definition of the term it uses to describe assisted living. 

When performing preliminary research or trying to find a retirement home online, the search term "assisted living" is generally accepted and will yield significant results from both the search engines and the senior living community. Remember to be aware of the fact that the term may be generally accepted, but the definition and service restrictions may vary significantly.

Choosing the Right Nursing Home Furniture

Nursing home furniture needs to fill a whole host of special needs: from its look, to its ease of cleaning and durability. The best furniture for nursing homes answers all three of these criteria affordably and well - allowing residents and temporary patients alike to live in the closest comfort they can to their own homes, whilst affording nursing staff the manoeuvrability and solidity they require in order to do their job effectively. As such, good furniture for these places presents quite a design and construction problem - though one, fortunately, that is being answered well by some new corporate furniture web sites: including the UK's own Triangle Interiors.

Triangle, which has made a pretty successful business out of designing and supplying bulk furniture for conference centres and hospitals, has recently added a quality range of nursing home furniture to its list. The range answers the three design criteria of good nursing furnishings extremely well. Triangle offer living room chairs, for example that have clearly been designed to replicate the kind of chair one might expect to find in the home of a person of that generation: pleasant, naturally coloured arm chairs, with high backs and furled armrests. They look almost indistinguishable from the "real" thing - but are stuffed with ergonomic design features that ensure ease of use in the nursing area situation. This nursing home furniture is easy to clean - it can be wiped down and disinfected in minutes. It's extremely durable, which means it holds its brightness and colour, as well as its working features, for a length of time that makes it economically practical to order. And it can be altered to make taking a patient out of it, in an emergency situation, extremely efficient and easy.

There are also ranges of bedroom furniture, built with the same three golden rules in mind. All the beds are comfortable, the tables are ornamental and simply built - but everything works in accordance with the daily requirements of a nursing establishment. This is nursing home furniture at its best: designed to look and feel like "normal" home furnishings, but well capable of withstanding the more intense stresses and strains of supporting less mobile patients. In effect, it's a trick, albeit a very kind hearted one: hospital furnishings, when all is said and done, made up to look like home decoration.

This, of course, is the most important trait of all. A nursing home is a place intended to give dignity, peace and as much happiness as possible to people who can no longer live in their own houses or flats. As such, the better ones are trying to take care of a wealth of memories and habits - and to detract attention from the frustrations inherent in having to be looked after. Nursing home furniture has a vital role to play in this illusion. Everyone knows that it is, really, hospital grade, designed to facilitate treatment rather than ornament: but, in the best of all possible worlds, it's also reminiscent of the homes the patients have been forced to leave.

Senior Care - Assisted Living Facilities

As we progress into the later years of our life, taking care of ourselves becomes harder and harder. This is why there are many senior and elderly care organizations that are available for our use and to provide assistance. Usually the most common and most convenient way is assisted living for senior care. There are many assisted living facilities that are set up just for this cause. The function and aim of these many facilities is to provide help and aid to people that need help in performing the chores and tasks of daily life. Who are these arrangements ideal for? These arrangements are set up for people that are unable to perform some of the needs and chores that are necessary to survival, such as bathing or grooming themselves, or even doing some of the simple housework. People who fall in these categories can consider assisted living facilities in which they are helped out thoroughly with all their needs. Keep in mind that these facilities are not really meant for people that need constant medical care and attention. There are many costs that are involved with assisted living facilities, but do rest assured, they cost a lot less than the amount for nursing homes. The costs are generally between $1500 and $2000 a month give or take a few. This number does depend on the individuals themselves as well. There may be some additional fees added for individual requirements. There are some extra fees for people with other medical needs and disabilities.

With that being said, what do assisted living facilities provide:

1. Assistance for daily tasks such as grooming, eating and bathing - and even more


2. Regular meals, usually 3 times a day


3. Help with exercise and staying fit and healthy


4. Housekeeping and laundry


5. Transpiration help


6. Recreation activities, such as bonding, cultural and church activities.


7. Around the clock service. People living here will always be tended to and will have their needs fulfilled usually without delay

There are many financial aid organizations and other financial aid that is available for such people who are not able to afford a facility like this. The cost of a facilitated living home is a lot less than the cost of nursing centers. Planning ahead and saving money for after retirement and such is very helpful. Assisted living facilities fulfill the many needs that senior may need, without giving up privacy or being totally detached from their previous life.

Lymphedema Swelling - Healthy Steps to Follow

If you have lymphedema, a chronic swelling of limb, breast, head, neck or trunk, you are not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from this condition, including many cancer survivors like me. While lymphedema can lead to loss of energy and mobility-and possibly even to depression-don't let it get you down. 
 
Like Lot's wife looking back at Sodom with regret for what could no longer be, I used to pine for my pre-lymphedema life and, before that, my life without breast cancer. Days that were carefree, blissfully ignorant-and non-compassionate. I had not yet recognized and appreciated the blessings that come from developing lymphedema. Eventually I came around to enjoy my post-lymphedema life, replete as it is with interesting exercises I'd never heard of before and opportunities to help others reeling from a lymphedema diagnosis. Who wants to turn into a pillar of salt as Lot's wife did? As lymphedema survivors we are to minimize our salt intake, not become it!
 
Besides giving tips on what works for me, a delight of my new life is engaging in appropriate activities. Our bodies require a healthy lymphatic system to optimize immune response and disease resistance. Fluid forced out of the bloodstream during normal circulation is filtered through the lymphatic system to remove bacteria, proteins, and other material that accumulates in the vessels. Unlike the circulatory system that has a pump (the heart) to move its contents, the lymphatic system moves by inertia. Thus, when lymphedema compromises our lymphatic system, we need help to remove built-up matter from congested areas.

Many ways exist to control chronic lymphedema swelling, including therapeutic dancing, active-elongation exercises, deep abdominal breathing, and swimming. A fascinating and fun program I explored to rev up my circulation was Healthy-Steps, otherwise known as the Lebed Method, Focus on Healing. Started by Sherry Lebed Davis, herself a lymphedema survivor, this program may reduce lymphedema symptoms by lowering fluid amassment in affected tissues so that participants can enjoy improved circulation, more energy, and a better attitude toward life. 
 
By focusing on the areas of the body having the largest lymphatic collection sites and unclogging lymphatic "drains," Healthy-Steps opens up the lymphatic system through gentle, rhythmic movements and deep breathing. Healthy-Steps works in conjunction with compression garments to improve their effectiveness in controlling swelling.

Check to see if Healthy-Steps is offered in your area, for example, in medical centers, hospitals, exercise and fitness centers, dance and yoga centers, retirement communities and assisted living facilities. When I took this program last year, I thoroughly enjoyed stretching, ball throwing, interactive social support, laughing and blowing bubbles. I don't have any financial interest in this program, but merely recommend it as a patient who experienced the benefits for herself. 

It has been several years now since I dissociated myself from Lot's wife, someone who looked back with longing on a life no longer available. As a breast cancer survivor with chronic lymphedema I embrace each moment of my existence and take healthy steps toward optimizing my lymphatic system. You can, too!

Senior Citizens And Their Housing Program

Fortunately for Americans, the U.S. Federal Government has established a comprehensive housing program for the senior citizens of the country through the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) primarily leading the implementation of affordable and useful alternatives for this sector.

In tandem with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the HUD seeks for organizers and volunteers in the respective communities all over the country to draw up plans and programs for senior citizen housing. This is also supported by the country's HOME Investment Partnership Program that gives out federal funds to localities within the states that need funding for housing particularly for them.

Among the highlights of the program is to give various options for oldsters to select their preferences. Elderly people can stay in their homes, rent an apartment or choose to go into an established care facility specializing to meet their emotional needs.

This type of accommodation has been foremost in the government's agenda to give medical and non-medical support to this sector that is oftentimes forgotten or ignored. Thus, the trend has been to grant independence and the privilege to choose which location or setup he or she wants.

When the older people have younger members of the family supporting them, the family can proceed to seek assistance through HUD approved counselors who provide the much-needed data and information about different programs and various appropriate housing communities.

A database on all the states is kept for rendering information about where the elderly can reside or the options made available for him to meet his needs. For those who can afford private housing, there is the privately-run institution that constructs homes or apartments designed either as a single and detached unit or communal accommodation where those who have reached the golden age can interact with each other.

There are even options for them to continue residing in their homes and to get a credit line against the equity on the home, either paid in full or has a small outstanding balance. The HECM, or simply housing assistance, persuades them continue to live in their own residences, to use some money for repairs, improvements, or to pay for monthly rentals.

Unlike before, nursing homes are not the only available option for oldsters to where they were automatically sent by their families upon reaching a certain age. Instead, the housing programs for the elderly in the country have been redesigned to make living comfortably also living healthily. However, senior citizen housing communities are not complete without the usual medical assistance or services offered by nurses, caregivers, or counselors who help in preserving the good health of the pensioners. The services also include non-medical needs like shopping and doing laundry.

Choices abound for retirement homes, whether living independently or communally, or for bigger communities that cater to social and emotional needs of senior citizens. Those who have been impaired by illness or have been affected mentally as in memory disorders or are in great risk from a terminal sickness are given priority by the federal government through the specialized centers for that purpose.

Housing woes like mortgage repayments have also been attended to carefully by the federal government by the Housing Choice Vouchers for the economically disadvantaged senior citizens. The multi-faceted housing program of the government for elderly people is indeed laudable. These programs make people look forward to their golden years as non-threatening to one's future. The federal government has been in full swing to continue to make housing programs for senior citizens and has specially handled this issue with care.

Things to Know in Selecting In Home Caregiving Services

Caregiving for a loved one is a demanding, challenging job and no one is outfitted to do it alone. For many, the challenges of caring for a loved one are part of daily life. If your senior loved one has difficulty living independently, you have options other than a nursing home, assisted living or other senior care facilities. With home care services, your loved one can receive 'round the clock' or hourly assistance to help them live life according to their needs and on their terms. Even for seniors who only need a little help in their daily living, in home care services may be a good option.

Live-In Home Care

Live-in home caregivers stay for multiple days at a time in the senior's home. They are expected to provide the senior with full-service, day and night care as needed. Live-in caregivers are able to give their complete attention to sustaining a well-conditioned and positive environment for your loved one. When selecting a live-in home care provider, make sure you choose someone who has enough experience and staff to give senior clients proper safety, care, companionship, and emotional support.

Hourly Home Care

Many elderly people do not need 24-hour or live-in care, and so they use their care providers on an hourly basis. For example, they may need assistance and appropriate care only during the morning evening, on Saturdays and Sundays, or when they visit their doctors or other appointments. With this choice, elderly people can get the appropriate care they need, in the proper place and at the right time.

By obtaining help as required, seniors are able to maintain their normal day-to-day schedules as independently as possible. Thus they can thrive by being in their familiar surroundings, with their own possessions and pets as they are given the help they need.

When searching for an hourly, or "come and go" caregiver, you should look for someone with the same expertise as a live-in home care provider. This includes the agency or the caregiver you may hire. Like a 24-hour or live-in caregiver, the hourly person should also be able to provide safety, emotional support, and companionship to their senior clients. They should also be devoted to the well-being and protection of their clients.

Care Outside Home

During hospital admissions caregivers can also be used for providing companionship and monitoring to your loved one. They may also accompany seniors on vacations or travel to insure their comfort and safety. Now you can have your much needed peace of mind knowing a reliable, professional caregiver is there for your loved one.

Here are some things you may want to consider when preparing to find an agency that will provide quality care to your loved one:

Working with agencies

- Conduct an in-depth appointment interview with each selection. Screening applicants on the phone should always be followed with a face-to-face personal interview. Initially this interview will be with the agency management, but later you will want to meet their proposed caregiver(s).

- Be particular of all the tasks, abilities, and daily activities that are required for your situation.

- Discuss compensation and payment schedules. Do not pay for services in advance. Payment should never be made directly to the caregiver, but instead the agency should issue invoices for payment.

- Ask for several work and personal reference sources, and then check them thoroughly. Confirm the information provided, and ask all sources about experience, credibility, punctuality and the care provider's capability to deal with stress and difficult tasks.

- Demand the highest levels of general and professional liability insurance coverage.

- Hire only an agency that has properly background checked and credentialed all of their proposed caregivers. Additional credentialing should also include health screenings, drug testing, proper licensing and training.

Be sure to ask the following questions:

- How are your employees screened?
- Do you guarantee a compatible "fit" of your proposed person with the client?
- Is your agency licensed, and by whom?
- Does your agency have any special accreditations, such as the Joint Commission?
- Are your proposed personnel payroll employees of your agency, or independent contractors?
- Can I see a copy of your business insurance coverage's? Does this include bonding of your employees?
- Do you require an upfront deposit or length of service commitment?
- What are the training programs and standards of experience for your personnel?
- Will you provide specific competency training to meet our unique family needs?
- How, and by whom, are your personnel supervised? Do you charge for these management services?
- What are your processes for emergencies or caregiver cancellations?
- Is your agency licensed and insured to provide medical services as well as basic in home care services?
- How do you include the extended family in the provision of your services?
- Does the program offer transportation, meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping?
- What is the cost of services? How do you handle invoicing arrangements?

Using these criteria are a great starting point to define the agency and caregiving services that will be required for your situation. Doing this level of homework will protect the client at a critical point in their lives when they need care at home. Doing all these things will allow you to start care with the confidence that you have done your best to select the highest level of care for your loved one. After the start of services, ultimately the real determination about the effectiveness of your decision will come down to the level of the actual care provided in the home, and the relationship that develops with the agency, caregiving staff and the client. This dynamic should be reviewed regularly by the family and adjustments made as necessary to insure continuation of the best possible care for their loved one.

About Multitasking and Vehicle Accidents

One of the main causes of vehicle accidents in the United States is driving distractions. Many have been injured, died, and incurred damages to property every year because of these.

Ironically, even though many drivers proclaim that they drive with safety as their top priority, many of them are still unaware that doing other activities simultaneously with driving can be dangerous and at times even fatal.

On multitasking

There are two words that best describe the lifestyles of many of today's people: fast and demanding.

Accordingly, many people nowadays are capable of doing two or more things at the same time. Multitasking, for most people, contribute to being productive and being able to save time.

This term usually refers to the manual tasks involved in an office setting. But then, multitasking is not only reserved on such situations-even driving involves multitasking. However, it can be dangerous, especially if the activity is outside of the realm of driving, wherein one has to take the eyes off the road and hands off the steering wheel.

Factors on why multitasking while driving happens

Technology is one factor why vehicle accidents happen in relation to multitasking. Drivers nowadays have their mobile phones in handy, but many of them use them while they drive. Doing so is called distracted driving, and it can greatly increase the likelihood of a person to get injured or killed.

According to statistics, out of 80 percent of drivers who admit to multitasking while driving, 19 percent of them use their mobile phones to answer a call or send a text message.

Incidentally, even the interior design of the vehicle is seen as a factor why drivers multitask while driving. Many car manufacturers nowadays design and build their vehicles with so-called 'creature comforts' like drink holders, dashboard audio/visual entertainment provisions, trays, and compartments for certain gadgets like mobile phones and laptops.

Unfortunately, such add-ons only tempt drivers to mind them as they take the wheel; indeed, a serious breach of safety driving rules.

Multitasking activities

Here are some examples of activities that drivers do while driving that can be considered as multitasking:

• Eating or drinking
• Pressing on the controls of the car stereo
• Doing make-up or other grooming activities
• Disciplining children inside the vehicle

Multitasking can indeed cause problems not only for the potential victims, but for the drivers themselves. Accordingly, victims who may think that there is someone liable for their injuries have the right for compensation from the damages received. But first, they must hire a Los Angeles vehicle accident lawyer for them to be properly guided and advised.

The Importance of Communication When Dealing With a Nursing Home

Do you have an aging parent or loved one in the nursing home? Well, I have my 92 year old mother there right now and I have a new appreciation for everyone who is caring for mom at this time. Since I am mom's primary caregiver at home I have made my presence known at the nursing home...since I have nothing else to do....HA!

I have had so many questions and the caretakers are so busy that I have been quietly observing and keeping a watchful eye out for mom. So far, I couldn't ask for more caring nurses and nurses aides but this isn't a perfect world so there are a few sprinkled in here and there that aren't as kind...you know what I mean. BUT on a whole, the wonderful caretakers far out weigh the bad ones in my opinion.

Now, as I was visiting mom this morning at 4:45 a.m., yes you heard me, I am a very early riser, I was in the room when the night shift nurse came in with mom's morning pills. When the nurse said "Alice here are your morning pills" my ears perked up.

When we had our second meeting with the doctor, he made mention that he wanted this particular medicine to be taken at a certain time and a certain way or it would not have the effect that it was suppose to have.

Every morning for two weeks I just assumed that the orders were followed out. NOT!

After the nurse completed her task and walked out of the room I quietly followed her without alarming mom and asked her if that particular medicine was to be taken alone. She looked at me puzzled and said "I don't know but I sure will find out."

She immediately looked in mom's chart that she had before her and read to me that it did not confirm what I told her so she continued to investigate and sure enough found that indeed the original doctor orders did say what I thought.

I very kindly apologized to her for butting in but thanked her for not brushing me off and she graciously said to me they make mistakes and she was thankful for my letting her know and she immediately changed the orders.

Now, I know I could have been rude and demanding but where would that have gotten me?

A MAD NURSE!!!

That's not what I want so....

I decided to be kind about it and I got a pleasant thank you back from her. We can make it hard or we can make it easy for all of us.

This is just my opinion but I have been observing a lot while sitting in that room with mom and it has changed my way of looking at nursing homes in general.

In future articles I will continue to give you little tips or heads up to make your loved one's stay in the home a little easier.

Remember....it depends upon our communication when dealing with all the health professionals who may be in charge of the care of our elderly and aging parents.

We need to remember that even though these special workers have our elderly's lives in their hands and we put our trust in them to make sure to the best of their ability to keep everything correct, they are human beings just like you and I and they have a HUGE responsibility on their shoulders when caring for our loved ones.

Let's help them, instead of making their task at hand harder.

You know what you deal with at home....these folks don't deal with just our aging parent or loved one but with many more all at the same time.

When I walk out in the hall and see all the lights that are lit up I wonder how in the world they can make everyone happy because they just can't get to all the little people at once. It is a process and we need to be more patient with the ones who have the lives of our loved ones in their hands.

So the next time you are visiting with your parent or hear your parent say they are being neglected....they aren't!

We need to show more patience with these wonderful nurses and nurse's aides who are giving their life to care for our aging family members.

I COULDN'T LIVE WITHOUT THEM!

How the Travel Nurse Must Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Physical Abuse to Elder Patients

As I have mentioned in previous articles, travel nurses are not well trained in recognizing elder abuse. Even though most states require courses on child abuse, no such course is required on elder abuse. Nurses also do not contribute bruises, broken bones and other physical injuries as abusive, but attribute them to a higher incidence of elderly people tripping and falling. Thus, the caretaker who commits physical violence, and states that the patient had fallen, is likely to be believed. As well, many abused elders suffer from dementia, Alzheimer and other mental deficiency entities which prevent them from telling how they obtained their injuries. In neglect cases unless the victim is extremely dehydrated or malnourished, the Travel Nurse will not attribute the deteriorating condition of the patient as neglect.

A comprehensive thesis of elder abuse has been compiled by Mary Jo Quinn, RN, MA and Susan Tomita, MSW. They organized maltreatment into three categories: physical abuse, failure to thrive, and self neglect. Their studies will be cited in how to recognized, document and report elder abuse.

Physical abuse must be recorded by utilizing a sketch sheet to demonstrate the anatomical area of the assault. Accompanying photographs must be taken for documentation. These conditions are not in themselves diagnostic of inflicted abuse, but are signs and symptoms that must be explored to rule out abuse.

In an assessment, one must note bruises and hematomas. One must note the lesions distribution over the body. Note if bruises are over bony prominences (elbow, knee, etc.), which are more indicative of a fall, versus inner arm and thighs, which are consistent with abuse. Do the bruises resemble the shape of an object or a thumb/palm/finger print? Note for the presence of old and new bruise. Multiple discolorations in multiple areas are indicative of repeated, systematic abuse. Are the injuries in different stages of resolution? Look for burns; are they unusual in location? Note rope burns to the wrist, ankles or thighs, or mouth gag mark. These are consistent with forcible restraints. Contracture of the musculature may indicate confinement for long periods of time. Assess the ambulatory state, in some incidences; poor ambulation in a capable adult may suggest sexual assault.

Documentation of the physical abuse must record the size, shape and location of the injury. Note the stages of the discoloration, take photographs of the injury. Finally, have an independent source sign the photographs and sketch allegations of abuse to be submitted to state authorities.

What Is A Standby Generator?

Most people get their power from the local electric grid. While this is quite useful, it is not always dependable. A particularly bad bit of weather can easily knock out the power to your home or business, and even a mistake on the lines might leave your home dark for days. While this is an annoyance for most, it is far more dire for those who need to have power twenty-four hours a day. Whether you are worried about keeping an oxygen machine going for a loved one or you do not want to risk losing the food in your refrigerator, you may want to look for a standby generator to alleviate such power problems.

A standby generator is a handy product that makes sure that loss of electricity from the utility company does not mean that electricity will be lost to your home or your place of work. Rather than depending on the traditional electric grid of power, most of these devices make use of some form of gas power, generally through natural gas, propane or even diesel power. These generators can often work for several hours at a time, and the only real limits on the power of these generators is their source of fuel. Though not meant to be a replacement for electricity, these generators can be quite useful in an emergency.

The average standby generator differs from other emergency generators due to the fact that its activation is usually an automatic process. The generator itself is hooked to an automatic switch, a device which can sense whether or not power is still flowing in from the electric company. Once the power goes out, the switch is triggered and the standby generator will kick in. When power returns from the utility, most generators will likewise be powered down by the same switch. This leads to less time with power lost during emergencies and less fuel usage when the generator is not needed.

Most standby generators are used by those who are required to have them. Hospitals are the most common owners of such equipment, as are nursing homes. Other required owners are those who own high-rise apartment buildings, as the elevators are generally required to have power even in an outage. There are many others who simply choose to make use of the generators, though, noting the sheer utility of the products. Many major food chains keep standby generators available to make sure that their refrigerated units do not lose power, and even some homes make use of standby generators to keep important appliances or even life-saving equipment online.

Important Things to Know About Nursing Home Software

Designed as a total facility management answer, nursing house software brings an array of influential nursing home requests. The one treatment home software package which brings you today's most supple, gainful nursing home organization tools, nursing home software is a adaptable system which can be configured to the precise needs of your association.

Ideal for solitary and multi-facility nursing homes as well as big nursing home chains, nursing home software revolves around adaptable, fully included application units. Built to carry out under even the mainly demanding situation, nursing home software provides you with the aptitude to contact the in order you use mostý"when you need it and where you need it.

Nursing Home Software Products

Nursing home software prearranged around your mainly important in force procedures, nursing home software products give an array of clinical and monetary nursing home request designed to permit easy preservation of your most significant data. From care plan information and user-defined enduring assessments to PPS billing and universal accounting in order, nursing home software is a dependable, easy-to-update nursing home organization solution.

Clinical Nursing Home Software Modules

Nursing home software proffer an array of scientific submission modules intended to help you uphold your nursing homes most vital care plans, information, physician's orders, progress notes, and excellence assessments. Designed to unite standardization with suppleness, clinical nursing home software modules also give access to accurate MDS, RAPs, user-defined assessment, and CMS reports.

Financial Nursing Home Software Modules

An tremendously adaptable way to trail every financial sign within your nursing home's operating arrangement, nursing home software particular financial nursing home software modules give the ability to uphold, track, and recall patient accounting, nursing home trust funds, third-party billing, collection letters, PPS billing, universal secretarial in order, and more.

The Best Uses of Nursing Software

If you are a nurse you cannot refute that have a PDA with nursing check-up software on it can be a marvellous help. Nurses who have a PDA up to with proper software will have relevant and significant information in their hands at every time.

This article will give you data of what software for nurses are available. The reason of this piece of writing is to give you with information as you start your research for nursing medical software. This article is not supposed to be the concluding say-so on this category of software, but an initial point for you to commence your exploration.

1. Handbook Of Signs And Symptoms

This software package actually helps you to connect the dots so to speak, of your patient's indication and the signs that they are present. It comprises the level of importance and the steps that you require to take throughout the examination. There are over 300 ordinary signs and symptoms as well as an extra 250 less ordinary signs and symptoms which are included in an appendix. One of my favorite description of the software is the herbal cure that are fixed.

2. Nursing procedures

as you can picture from the title this program lists over 500 procedures. Each procedure includes instructions, necessary equipment you will need for the procedure, documenting, and what to do in case of complications. This is a very user-friendly software Index the procedures can be found easily through the search function and there are hundreds of illustrations that bring life to the procedure.

3. Drug Guide For Nurses

One thing that nurses are constantly doing is amount calculations. With this software it has never been easier to compute meds. The software includes 5,000 drugs classified into 150 categories. This software has a built in error avoidance and warnings when trouble may arise, as well as enduring warnings such as taking food.

As you can see, there are ample of dissimilar software for nurses' letters to help nurses do their job. Especially in the check-up field you really cannot take too numerous precautions. I also know persons who use the software in Brazil while they are giving medical attention to village people.

Why Not Use Nursing Scheduling Software

If you are in the healthcare industry you know how difficult scheduling can be. There are many confront that you face when you are trying to programme for dissimilar shifts of persons in dealing with all the ins as well as outs of setting up.

This software has been intended to make your preparation errands rapid and competent. On the other hand it is not so unbending that it will not let input from you. In other expression it is supple enough to still permit you to vigorously contribute in the scheduling process.

Because of this you will discover that it is very simple to begin using this nursing agenda software.

There are many reimbursements to using nursing agenda software such as Care Ware. When you use setting up software you will be offered with a impartial schedule that will comply with entity worker preferences, policies and work rules. You will also become aware of an enormous reduction in official procedure for your nursing unit manager.

Because of this payback you will also notice that your operating costs will go down. In effect let's go over the base line of what this kind of software will be to you.

1. You will discover that reporting is much easier. You can run reports and provide reports to your supervisors with confidence because you will recognize that the data in the reports is accurate.

2. All the information can be accessed in concurrent from any scene. No more waiting until you get to the place of work to see what the schedule is.

3. Fewer time is spent managerially trying to craft a schedule.

4. This kind of software will reduce overtime and require pulling from a pond staff.

As you can see there are a lot of features and reimbursement, especially benefits, for manager who use nursing agenda software such as Care Ware. The reimbursement will be found not only is cost savings, but also in conditions of happier workers and a smoother pour of work.

Hospital Tips For the Elderly

Let's face it; going to the hospital for any kind of procedure is daunting, even for the young and relatively healthy individual. But, for the older American, a hospital visit can be quite frightening and even dangerous. Older people are more susceptible to hospital borne infections and can often be a bit neglected by busy nurses and other caregivers. The following hospital tips have been compiled specifically for the older individual who is facing a hospital stay.

1. If you know you are going to be admitted to a hospital in the near future, ask a relative or close friend to visit you as much as possible, while you are in the hospital. Ask that person to be prepared to watch over you and make sure that your needs are met, should you not be able to do so, yourself.

2. Whenever possible, try to do most of the pre-admission process over the phone before the day of your surgery/treatment. That way, you can be sure that the information you are giving is correct and you will not be as nervous as you will be on the day of your admission. Be sure and tell the admissions coordinator about ALL medications you are taking (including non-prescription pills and supplements). You should also plan to bring these medications with you on the day of your surgery/treatment in their original containers. Expect that they will be taken from you and then reissued by the hospital pharmacist in conjunction with your physician. Hospitals do not allow patients to take medications on their own while under their care.

3. Make sure you bring your favorite nightclothes, a robe, slippers and some comfortable clothes to wear home after discharge. You should also bring your own toothbrush, toothpaste, brush, shampoo, deodorant, shaving cream and razor, etc. Hospitals will not provide these items to patients. Should you forget to bring any of these items, the hospital gift shop should have these items in stock at all times.

4. Do NOT bring valuable jewelry, including your watch and wedding rings. Leave these at home or with a trusted friend but don't wear them to the hospital! It is also best not to bring electric hair dryers as they may not be grounded to the hospital's standards and pose a safety issue.

5. A geriatric assessment may be done by the hospital care team for some elderly patients. There may be complex problems that could threaten their ability to live alone after certain surgeries or procedures. Usually, the physician assigned to the case will request the assessment by another physician, nurse, social worker and physical therapist. This assessment can help older patients receive all of the care they may need after they are discharged from the hospital.

6. Older patients can take much longer to recover from the effects of anesthesia than younger individuals. It is important that the patient get plenty of rest and a lot of fluids to help offset these effects. Report to a nurse or the physician if excessive dizziness, nausea or forgetfulness continues to be a problem more than 24 hours after the surgery. Also, the older patient should not be allowed to get up on their own after anesthesia without someone else to assist and evaluate their ability to get around without tripping over wires and tubes (always a hazard in the hospital),

7. Older patients can also experience more problems with IV's because their skin is much thinner and their veins tend to collapse. Any arm pain, sudden coldness, a huge bubble forming under the skin or stinging should be reported to the nurse right away as the vein may have collapsed and the fluid could be leaking under the skin.

In short, the elderly need special attention and care when admitted to the hospital. It is the responsibility of the hospital staff to make sure that the outcome is the best it can possibly be, but the reality is that the elderly need an advocate (or several) in the form of family and friends to make sure their needs are truly properly met.

CNA Job Description Varies With Employed Position And Health Care Facility

You may have completed your nurse aide training program and earned CNA Certification, and now you must be aiming to start your career in the health care field. But, are you aware that as a certified nurse aide your CNA Job Description varies with the type of job you are employed and your job position.

As a certified nurse aide, you can get employment in a hospital, long term care unit, nursing home, adult homes, rehabilitation center, hospice, psychiatric care center or health clinics. It is also possible that you may work as a private duty CNA, home health aide, travel nurse aide, military nurse aide or school nurse aide.

Different types of Job Description need execution of specific nurse aide duties that are essential for that particular job. CNA Programs must have trained you for executing common and basic everyday routine cares, but the skill and knowledge gained from the training program needs to be executed differently for separate jobs. For example, if you work in a physicians office, you will have to perform separate set of duties than working as a home health aide.

Again, the position you are employed also needs execution of duties more related to that work. In same facility also you may be employed in different departments where your responsibilities also vary. Working in an OPD of a hospital needs performance of separate set of duties than working in an operation theater or intensive care unit.

Hospital Nurse Aide

If you work in a hospital, your job description is divided among different units of the hospital. You may work in the opd, intensive-care unit, operation room, neo natal center, neurology department, post-anesthesia care unit, neo natal intensive care unit, emergency department, pediatric intensive-care unit, cardiology or coronary care unit or hospital stores looking after medication and other hospital inventory supplies.

In an operation room of the hospital, your duties are more concentrated in assisting surgeons and specialized nurses during surgical operations. You may also have to sterilize operating knives, scissors and other equipments. It is also your duty to prepare the patient for operation and counsel him/her about the treatment and operation procedures.

If you are employed in an OPD of a hospital, you are required to attend incoming and outgoing patients, provide them medications as directed by the physician and perform other duties.

You must also remember that in a hospital, you are required to execute your duties and responsibilities under the direct supervision of a physician, registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

But, suppose if you are working as a home health aide, your job description shows that you will have to offer care to patients who are recovering at home from long treatments or patients that are released from the hospital after certain period of time.

Home Health Aide

In the home of the patient, you may have to execute duties, such as count, measure and record vital signs, measure intake and output of fluids, measure height and weight, proper use of bed pan, dressing and undressing patients, cleaning and dressing wounds, clean the room and change bed linens.

In addition, you may also have to perform some house keeping, cook for the patient, assist in movements through wheel chairs and walking, supervise exercises, answer light calls and execute numerous other duties.

Therefore, your CNA duties are specified to units and positions you are employed. Even your CNA salary also depends on these factors and as a certified nurse aide working in an Operating room or Intensive care unit you earn much higher than working as a home health aide.

Compensation for Car Accidents and Requirements to Be Successful During the Settlement Process

Car accidents usually occur unexpectedly, so when this unfortunate event happens, victims and their families can go through a lot of pain and needless suffering when dealing with other party or parties, the insurance companies, hospital personnel and the list goes on.

Often enough, people who happened to get in a car accident, regardless whether it is their fault or not, will be facing multiple problems along the way related to insurance claim filing and very complex legal system's procedural framework and issues which can be hard to follow or comprehend by an average person in the existing litigation system. Add to this a possibility that the victim is burdened with damages or injuries they have to endure and deal with after they contacted the police, and the need for hiring professional and well-qualified lawyer become an obvious route to take.

Finding an experienced auto accident attorney to take care of the legal complexities after an accident can greatly improve the otherwise long process of getting paid for damages or personal injuries and get medical bills compensated with adequate settlement. Professional lawyers firm will go a step further in trying to get reinstated in life and take care of things that normally do not measure in money equivalent, things like lost wages, impact on psychological well-being and emotional; health. The mere fact of knowing that someone with expertise and a lot of experience is working for you will make you feel appreciated and taken seriously, even if it involves paying extra to someone who is doing the work for you.

With a help of qualified attorney law firm, you can be reassured that every aspect of the damages as a result of the accident is taken into account and real help is provided when needed. Sometimes, insurance companies can offer accident settlement or compensation amount that people get easily lured by, but they often do not see far enough and miss the real compensation blinded by the sudden guarantee of entitlement to quick money. When these matters are discussed with the auto accident attorney representatives, every detail is scrutinized sufficiently enough to see the real benefits of analyzing every little detail with the lawyer that can help the client with getting much better of than originally thought.

Some things related to the car accident and when looking into the party's fault can suddenly come into play and considerably help the victims when a very thorough and detailed reconstruction of events takes place in the attorney's office. The lawyer will play an essential role here trying to listen to the story and guide and assist the person who is seeking legal advice to carefully approach and analyze the sequence of events and how externals factors might have influenced the rights of the victim which he might have, but does not know about them unless discussed with the support of the lawyer. Lawyer's or attorneys' previous history of working on similar cases or trying to prove the fault of another party can help tremendously in finding the perfect direction for the case to take in order to look for and receive the most deserved compensation for medical injuries or damages experienced because of someone's fault experienced as a result of the auto accident.