What is the Caregiving Crunch and Why It Matters to Your Senior Loved One

As baby boomers age, America has more seniors than ever before. By 2060 it is estimated that the number of Americans over 65 years old will rise to 98.6 million, with 19.7 million people aged 85 or older. 

With so many seniors in the population, it begs the question: Who will care for those who can no longer care for themselves?

This potential problem has become known as the “caregiving crunch,” and it could be argued that it has already begun. Twelve million Americans require care today, and by 2050, it’s estimated that number will be more like 27 million, with over half of those needing care suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

How Did It Come About?

Between 2000 and 2016, the average age of an American according to the census bureau rose from 35.3 to 37.9 years old, with statisticians placing the blame for this rise on the baby boom, the post-World War II period from 1946 to 1964 when birth rates were high. Baby boomers started turning 65 in 2011 and more of them will be entering their senior years until 2029.

Added to the increased population, advances in medical science and data technology are helping people live longer. People are now more health conscious, illustrated by things like declining cigarette sales since the 1980s and wellness food trends growing. As medical treatments improve and people live healthier lives, the average age of mortality has reached 78.6 years, up from 74.7 only 30 years ago.

As well as people living longer, people are also more likely to be living alone. Although 90 percent of people marry, nearly half of all marriages end in divorce.  In 2010, the US Census Bureau estimated that 28 percent of seniors were living alone.

How Does the Caregiving Crunch Affect You and Your Senior Loved One?

Americans are very reliant on family members for caregiving in their senior years. Around 34.2 million Americans provide unpaid care to a senior. Ninety-five percent of those are providing care to family members. In total, these unpaid caregivers are offering $500 million of free services to family members, more than three-times what Medicaid pays for professional care each year; however, if you live alone, with no spouse and no family members, this isn't a viable option. As a result, more and more people are turning to professional home care or nursing home care. The number of seniors receiving professional in-home care is continually rising, and since 2015, more seniors have received in-home care than those who receive care in nursing homes.

Effectively, there are not enough caregivers to look after the number of people who require help. In the next decade, it is estimated that demand for caregivers will outstrip supply by over three million. Moreover, it doesn't just affect those seniors who have no family. The shortage will affect seniors who have family caregivers needing respite. It will affect seniors living with a condition that requires support. It will affect seniors whose family members can't care full-time due to work or other commitments. Families are more likely than ever to be spread geographically, so those who live far from loved ones are also more likely to be affected.

The quality of care is also a worry. As experienced professional caregivers’ schedules become fully committed, it’s more likely that families in need may mistakenly turn to unqualified and inexperienced caregivers.

Getting Professional Home Care Service

It is important to prepare yourself by researching options and speaking with professionals who can answer your questions and help you plan services. If your loved one has an existing relationship with a caregiver and receives care through an agency, he or she is more likely to be able to adjust services as needed.

Look into professional senior home care through a larger agency. While local caregivers may be available, a national brand may be able to offer more options. Going with a larger brand also tends to provide peace of mind to the family of the senior. Hiring through a large home care agency means you know that the caregiver has been through a vetting process and should be bonded, licensed and insured, offering a level of reassurance that you won’t find hiring through the personal ads.

About Visiting Angels Newton/Canton

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton senior home care agency provides high-quality in-home care services to seniors and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care, companion care, respite support, transitional aid, and senior home care services in Westwood, Norwood, Newton, Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Natick, Dedham, Watertown, Stoughton, Roslindale, Wellesley, and nearby towns. The services provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton will be sure to make a big impact on your loved one’s happiness and quality of life. Call us today at 617-795-2727 for more information.

Helping Your Senior Loved One Battle the Holiday Blues

For many, the holidays are the best time of year filled with family get-togethers, feasts and fun traditions; but for seniors, this can be the most depressing of all seasons as they pine for lost loved ones. And in a lot of cases, with family miles away, seniors struggle to decorate, shop, and prepare a meal. They struggle with feeling sad that they can’t move around as easily as they did when they were younger.

Visiting Angels, one of the largest in-home senior care companies in the nation, offers local families the vital service of hiring senior loved ones a holiday companion. Don’t know what to get Grandma or Grandpa for Christmas? How about a friend, or better yet, an angel - a Visiting Angel that is! A holiday companion is also a priceless gift that adult children can give themselves this year – Visiting Angels can provide them with a professional caregiver to tend to their senior loved ones’ every need as they prepare for a house full of guests or holiday event.

Roughly one in four seniors (age 65 or older) suffers from depression. More than 70 percent of older Americans feel isolated and lonely*. And, nearly one-third of all non-institutionalized older Americans live alone** (more depression information included below).

“The holidays can be tough on seniors because many have lost people they loved. Plus, they aren’t as mobile to visit friends and family or even decorate or shop,” says Larry Meigs, CEO of Visiting Angels. “Our caregivers socialize with seniors, take them visiting and keep them engaged instead of sitting at home feeling isolated and depressed. Plus, our caregivers give families the heads up about their senior’s state-of-mind, to differentiate between the holiday blues and full-blown depression.”

The Holiday Blues vs. Senior Depression

The holiday blues are often temporary and dissipate when the season ends. The holiday blues are also associated with the time change – as daylight hours become shorter. If the blues continue after the season, it could be a warning sign of depression.

Senior depression is often mistaken for other age-related issues. In fact, stress-related events such as the holidays may trigger half of all depressive episodes, according to the U.C. Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.
 
Common signs of senior depression include***

• Lack of appetite
• Extreme fatigue – excessive sleeping. The body shuts down to escape from the outside world.
• Problems concentrating
• Anti-social – may stop doing normal things such as going to church.
• Older adults may not express sadness (unlike kids with depression).
• Abuse of drugs or alcohol
• Being angry – sarcastic and criticizes others’ joy of the season.

How Angels Help Seniors Beat the Holiday Blues

Encourage seniors to exercise – Various studies reveal that staying physically active not only makes people feel good, but it has the same effect on mood and brain chemistry as antidepressants.

Keep alcohol use to a minimum – Alcohol is a known depressant. Visiting Angels caregivers can create some other festive drinks such as eggnog or a flavored hot chocolate to help seniors cheerfully toast to the season.

Don’t feel obligated to buy lots of gifts – Giving certainly can make you feel good but in times of financial despair, giving gifts can create a lot of stress. Instead, Visiting Angels caregivers can help seniors write and send personalized cards to family and friends.

Stay connected socially – Volunteer at a soup kitchen (or other organization) with a caregiver – giving back greatly improves people’s moods and increases their sense of self-worth. Caregivers can also teach seniors how to use computers or cell phones to stay socially connected with family and friends. They can take seniors to a local coffee shop or to look at Christmas lights for some holiday cheer outside the home.

Be a good listener – Sometimes all it takes to help a senior with the holiday blues is to simply listen. Through conversation, caregivers can help seniors live in the present (instead of dwelling on “the good old days”) and keep their holiday expectations realistic.

Caregivers also cook, clean, drive seniors to doctors and stores, and even help decorate! Get a professional caregiver for your senior loved one today!


*University of Michigan study, 2005
**Administration on Aging (2010 data).
***Gottlieb Memorial Hospital and Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide

About Visiting Angels Newton/Canton

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton senior home care agency provides high quality in-home care services to seniors and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care, Alzheimer’s care, companion care, respite support, transitional aid, and elderhome care services in Wellesley, Natick, Newton, Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, Stoughton, Roslindale, Norwood and nearby towns . The services provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton will be sure to make a big impact on your loved one’s happiness and quality of life. Call us today at 617-795-2727 for more information.

Clutter is a Sign that Your Senior Needs Home Care

Clutter can be one of the first signs that your loved one needs help. If you visit your loved one, who normally has the house in near-mint condition, and the house looks unkempt, it is a sign that something may not be right. You may have to play detective and interpret the clues. Seniors don’t always ask for the help they need, so you can’t wait for him or her to make the first move. If you think your loved one is struggling, it might be time to consider getting them support.

Clutter poses a significant risk to aging seniors living alone at home because they often have underlying health issues that can make them more prone to falling. When you consider poor eyesight, a misplaced item on the floor in a walkway can become a fall risk. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in seniors; they lead to severe injuries, like hip fractures, broken bones and brain injuries. If your loved one falls once, the risk of future falls double, and the possible health complications increase with each fall.

Clutter could be a sign of underlying health problems as well.

Clutter can be a sign that your loved one isn’t able to handle day-to-day housework anymore. Your parents may be reaching an age where their muscles and skeleton weaken; or they may have arthritis, which can affect dexterity. Often, seniors can be too proud to ask for help, or in denial that they need assistance. This may be because they don’t want to be a burden on family or friends, or because they fear that a change in routine might lead to a loss of privacy and independence.

Clutter may also be an early sign of dementia, e.g. when your loved one is missing steps in their usual daily routine, like forgetting to vacuum or clear up after dinner. Other similar signs include not carrying out basic personal hygiene or forgetting to pay bills. We all forget things, misplace car keys or mix up names, but regular occurrences, particularly in an older person, could be a warning. If you suspect your loved one is exhibiting signs of dementia, contact their physician.

A decline in the cleanliness of your loved one’s home could also be due to depression or mental fatigue. As they age, they don’t produce the same levels of chemicals like serotonin that help balance moods. Physical problems, like loss of mobility, can cause them to become isolated and loneliness can be a prime cause of depression. Boredom can be a factor and seniors also face many issues that can be upsetting, like the loss of friends and loved ones, and facing their own mortality.

As with dementia, if a general malaise and lack of effort around the home is accompanied by other signs of depression, like weight loss, sudden mood changes and trouble sleeping, it may be wise to contact a medical professional.

Maybe friends and family could help your loved one with housework if needed, but remember, this may be a long-term commitment. Of course, you can pick up after your loved one, but that may not address the underlying causes of the clutter in their home.

A professional home caregiver from Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can help your family member with housework, either by carrying out tasks that they physically can’t manage or by offering gentle reminders of the tasks still to be done. If your loved one is determined to live at home as mental faculties wane, professional home care can help tremendously.

If the clutter in your loved one’s home does become evidence of a deeper problem, a professional caregiver from Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can help with those conditions, too. If your loved one is in the early stages of dementia, a caregiver can help them keep up with daily routines and offer stimulation to help to slow the advance of the disease, while watching for signs of the condition deteriorating. If your loved one is depressed, a professional caregiver can help with activities and socializing, either by offering companionship or by enabling interaction with other seniors.

Whatever the reason for the clutter in your loved one’s home, the time to act on it is now. It may be indicative of underlying problems that must be addressed.

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton understands that each client has unique needs. Therefore, we design a personalized home care plan for each client, based on the results of an initial in-home consultation by one of our case managers. Then we carefully choose the right caregiver for the client, considering factors such as technical skills, personality traits, and experience.

Our home care aides are professional, experienced and always treat clients with respect and dignity. They are trained with the use of Hoyer lifts, gait belt or other transfer equipment.

We are on call 24/7 at 617-795-2727, always ready to provide help to your loved one. And, we have a large pool of back-up caregivers. Your loved one will not be alone if your regular caregiver cannot provide service due to unexpected circumstances.

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton has won the Best of Home Care Provider of Choice, Leader in Excellence and Employer of Choice from Home Care Pulse for years. Our quality is recognized! If you loved one needs senior home care assistance in Needham, Dedham, Canton, Watertown, Brookline, Wellesley, and nearby areas, please call us at 617-795-2727 for a free consultation.

It’s Your Turn to Take Care of Mom

There’s nothing like a mother’s love. Whether she was making your school lunch, giving you a pep talk after a disappointment, acting as your biggest cheerleader, or spoiling your kids, Mom was always there for you.

Perhaps that’s why it is so difficult for grown children to accept the fact that they are not always able to take care of an aging mother themselves. In a perfect world, you would be able to take care of your aging parent in your home or theirs, relying only on family to help you. But the reality is that caring for an aging or ill parent is a full-time job that can take a toll on the caregiver; add to that the demands of raising a family, working, and other responsibilities, and chances are you’ll need a little assistance along the way.

That’s where Visiting Angels come in. A national network of franchised non-medical senior homecare agencies, the company provides senior homecare to help elderly and older adults continue to live in their homes. These caring, experienced home caregiversprovide up to 24-hour care in the comfort of the client’s own home.

Unlike most elderly care service agencies that assign staff and schedule appointments with little input from their clients, Visiting Angels representatives begin by meeting with potential clients in order to get to know them. They also talk with involved family members, and when necessary, a person’s physician or social worker in order to develop an individualized program to manage the particular daily needs of each care recipient. Clients participate in selecting their own caregivers, and the client and her family have the final say in the selection process, ensuring that the match will be a good one.

You can be confident that your caregiver is qualified and has excellent references. “Character counts,” says Richard Bitner, of Visiting Angels. “We build relationships with families and hire only experienced caregivers who pass a rigorous screening process.”

“The families schedule is our schedule”. The company also emphasizes the intangible traits of the caregiver, such as a caring personality. Many of the company’s caregivers are former hospital staff who have grown tired of budget cuts taking over healthcare and who appreciate the opportunity to do one-on-one personal care.

“We want our clients to look forward to a visit by their caregiver,” says Bitner. “That’s why the client is in complete control from start to finish.” After the caregiver has been placed in your home, the company continues its personalized contact through telephone check-in and home visits to make sure you and your caregiver are a good match.

Although Visiting Angels are non-medical caregivers, they can provide a vital link in patient care. In cases where seniors are coming home from the hospital or a nursing home, the agency will consult with doctors, nursing home staff, social workers, physical therapists, and of course, the family, to establish each client’s personalized needs. In addition, although Visiting Angels do not dispense drugs, they can help monitor whether the patient is taking their medication.

Because caregivers have access to a great deal of health information about their clients, Visiting Angels is one of very few national non-medical senior homecare providers to be compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). “Such information is very sensitive, and all of our clients deserve the protection that HIPAA compliancy can provide,” says Bitner. Many families request we take their Mother’s to their Doctor for scheduled appointments, so we can keep the family in the loop.

In addition to offering joyful companionship, Visiting Angels will also do light housekeeping, run errands, prepare meals or do shopping — other ways they can provide a respite for families dealing with the care of a loved one.

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton senior homecare agency provides high quality in-home care services to seniors and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care service, Alzheimer’s care, companion care, elderly care, respite support, transitional aid, and elder home care services in Wellesley, Newton, Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, Natick, Stoughton, Roslindale, Norwood and nearby towns . While non-medical in nature, the care provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can make a big impact on your loved one’s happiness and quality of life. Call us today at 617-795-2727 for more information!

Keep Elderly Minds Sharp Using Elder Care Services

Summary:  Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can keep elderly minds sharp, including a proper diet, physical exercise, and mental exercise.  Using elder home care services can assist a senior in a healthy routine to maintain a sharp mind.  Visiting Angels provides non-medical home care and joyful elderly companionship.
_______________________________________________________________________
 
A healthy lifestyle can lead to sharper minds in the elderly.  This fit standard of living includes healthy eating, exercise, and stimulating the mind with mental activity.  By using elder care services, a senior can get the support and encouragement they need to keep up with their physical and mental health.   

In addition to physical health, diet contributes to brain health and protects against cognitive decline.  Five servings of fruits and vegetables a day should be consumed, as well as fish once or twice a week.  Trans and saturated fats should always be avoided.  A companion from elder care services can make sure that someone living on their own will continue with their healthy eating, and not skip meals. 

Physical activity that maintains cardiac fitness and vascular health can take of your brain as well.  Preferably thirty minutes of exercise every day, but at least three times a week, allows for cardiovascular benefits.  This vascular health and maintenance translates into a sharp mind for seniors.  Hiring a compassionate home caregiver to visit an elderly loved one can make sure that a patient keeps up with their daily exercise routine. 

Engaging in mentally challenging activities can also keep elderly minds quick and healthy.  Reading, crossword puzzles, sudoku puzzles, games, brain teasers, or learning a new language or musical instrument keeps minds active and occupied.  They are also very enjoyable pastimes, and an elder care service providing a friend to share in these activities can be a positive experience. 

A non-medical home care agency provides personalized care for seniors as an alternative to assisted living facilities or nursing homes.  The longer a senior can remain in their own home, the more active both mentally and physically they will stay.  Companionship provided by home care agencies can help an individual with their routine and assist in their activities.  It is crucial your loved one continue to live a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a sharp mind. Elder care services contributes to this goal.   

About Visiting Angels Newton/Canton:

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton MA is an award-winning local home care agency providing high caliber in-home care services to elderly and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care, Alzheimer's care, companion care, respite support, transitional aid, and senior home care services in Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Wellesley, Newton, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, Natick, Stoughton, Roslindale, Norwood and nearby towns. While non-medical in nature, the care provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can make a big impact on your loved one's happiness and quality of life. Call us today at 617-795-2727 for a free in-home consultation!

Preventing Falls is Important to Senior Health

When you think of your aging loved ones, what do you worry about most? Is it a heart attack or stroke cutting short their life, or perhaps cancer? While these illnesses are very real worries for everyone as they age, it may surprise you to discover that falls are the second leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and 75 percent of these falls occur in the older adult population.

Falls are the single largest cause of injury among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than they are for injuries from other causes. One-third of older adults who fall, sustain a hip fracture and are hospitalized, die within a year. 

Even if a fall does not result in hospitalization, fear of falling can become a major factor in seniors’ quality of life. Fear leads to inactivity and loss of confidence which in turn produces a cycle of fear, loss of self-confidence and inactivity.

Dr. Roberta A. Newton, Ph.D., Temple University College of Health Professions in Philadelphia has spearheaded efforts to study and research why falls occur and how they can be prevented. Recognizing the importance of preventing falls, Visiting Angels, a national network of franchised non-medical senior homecare agencies, has partnered with Dr. Newton to increase the public awareness and importance of this sometimes overlooked issue.

To help seniors and their families find out more about falls and how to prevent them, Visiting Angels, a senior home care services franchise, conducts free seminars across the country. “As our loved ones age, it is important to recognize that things like throw rugs that once didn’t warrant a second thought, now become household hazards. Mobility and agility limitations require a fresh look at the everyday contents of the home,” says Pat Drea Vice President of Operations. Here are some easy tips to help minimize the risk of life-altering falls for your loved ones.

* Throw rugs can be a tripping hazard. Either remove them or make sure they are securely tacked down.

* Add hand rails to all stairs.

* Clear clutter from walking paths, and make sure hallways and stairways are well-lit.

* Eliminate long extension cords that snake across a room. Plug lamps into outlets near the wall so cords are tucked away.

* Add grab bars next to the toilet, tub and shower.

* Getting in and out of the tub can be hazardous. In addition to grab bars, make sure the tub has non-skid mats. A tub seat may make showering easier, too.

* Trade in floppy slippers for well-fitting slippers with non-skid soles. Also, avoid night clothing that drags on the ground.

The experts at Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can help you check for hazards in your loved one’s home. Call Visiting Angels Newton/Canton, the home care agency in Newton, or call us at 617-795-2727 for a free consultation to help you assess your situation and address the elderly home care issues that are important to you and your family.

About Visiting Angels Newton/Canton:

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton MA is an award-winning local home care agency providing high caliber in-home care services to elderly and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care, Alzheimer's home care, elderly companion care, respite support, transitional aid, and senior home care services in Newton, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, and nearby towns . While non-medical in nature, the care provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can make a big impact on your loved one's happiness and quality of life.

What to Do When Your Loved One Needs Long Distance Care

You took that fantastic job offer in another state. Mom and dad were healthy and fine. As time passed, you were promoted and became successful. Dad passed away and mom is not doing well on her own. She’s reached an age where daily assistance may be necessary and you’re a 1,000 miles away. How do you manage this situation without picking up and moving your family or your mother? If this scenario sounds familiar, remote care giving might be the answer.

Visiting Angels supports remote care giving, taking the burden off families and loved ones of those that need care. “Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are not the only options available,” says Richard Bitner, President of the national franchise, Visiting Angels. Non-medical home care services allows your loved ones to live where they want to be … their own home.

Visiting Angels has over 300 senior home care agencies around the country to help educate families and provide care to seniors and people with disabilities. Here are some questions to consider when determining if your loved one needs professional care:

• Does your loved one need assistance with walking?
• Has their physical and/or emotional health been declining?
• Are they able to prepare nutritious daily meals?
• Are they able to shop for themselves?
• Are they able to manage their bills and financial responsibilities?
• Are they taking their medications on time?
• Are they still able to drive safely?
• Are they in need of companionship?
• Are they able to dress and groom themselves?

If your answers to these questions highlight a loss of ability for your loved one to care for themselves independently, professional elderly home care might be an option for you. When considering agencies, choose one that can offer more than basic homemaker services, including dressing, bathing and other hygienic activities. If the home care agency is based in Massachusetts, be sure to check that it is bonded, insured and accredited by Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts.

For piece of mind for you and your loved one, understand the caregiver’s background and experience. Home care agencies should be able to provide you this along with conducting a criminal background check on its employees. You also should be able to meet with the caregiver before you agree to services to make sure that personalities match and you are comfortable with the service they provide.

“And you should be entirely comfortable with the person helping your loved one,” adds Bitner. “For example, at Visiting Angels, we try to match the personalities of our clients with the personalities of our home caregivers. If something doesn’t fit, we find someone who does. This makes everyone happy and allows us to give the best care possible.”

Since home care services are non-medical, they currently are not covered by Medicare. But you do have options. Elderly home care services can be paid individually or by long term care insurance. Often, funds from associations are available as well. For example, contact the organization that is involved with the illness that your loved one is afflicted with. Funds are sometimes available for their members.

Veterans and their spouses might qualify for the Disability Pension for Aid and Attendance. Others decide to take out a reverse mortgage. Whatever your situation, the proper research can determine the best route for financing care.

Most importantly, stay in contact with your loved one and the people involved in their care. Establish periodic phone calls and visit when you are able. Conversation shows you care whether you are in the same room or across the country.

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton senior homecare agency provides high quality in-home care services to seniors and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia home care service, Alzheimer's care, companion care, elderly care, respite support, transitional aid, and elder home care services in Wellesley, Newton, Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, Natick, Stoughton, Roslindale, Norwood and nearby towns. While non-medical in nature, the care provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can make a big impact on your loved one's happiness and quality of life. Call us today at 617-795-2727 for more information!

Take the Pressure Off with Respite Senior Home Care

Summary:  There are many responsibilities when caring for an aging loved one and sometimes family members cannot be there all the time.  Senior home care services from Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can provide a much-needed respite for families.

________________________________________________________________________

Many adult children are finding themselves in the role of primary caregiver for their aging parents (and other family members).  There tends to be a great struggle to find the balance between juggling their own families, careers, and the responsibilities of caring for their parent(s).  When at all possible, it is advised to seek support and ways to incorporate personal time and wellbeing into the caregivers’ schedule.  Visiting Angels Newton/Canton respite senior home care is helpful with daily tasks, overnight support, and live-in care.

A home health aide can take over tasks such as household maintenance and daily chores. Your Visiting Angels Newton/Canton caregiver can assist with bathing and grooming, changing of linens, and laundry, preparing meals, and helping your loved one prepare for bed. Having the help of a home health aide brings a substantial difference and much-needed balance and piece of mind to the family and senior receiving the care.

In addition to chores and keeping up with household duties, maybe a challenge is overnight care, or even being responsible for someone who lives out of town.  It is not unusual for loved ones to live in other states and countries, making transition challenging and decision making an immediate priority.  If the adult child who is responsible for their parent lives out of town, how will their loved one get to a doctor’s appointment, have a companion to check in on them, or take their proper medication?  Hired elderly home care is available, offering caring, secure, and trained caregivers.  You may only need home care at night, so your loved one is not alone and has assistance as needed.  Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can provide overnight coverage as well as live-in caregivers, offering 24 hour a day, seven days a week coverage. 

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton provides caring, at-home caregivers offering respite for families, alleviating the stress of trying to balance career and family. Using Visiting Angels Newton/Canton’s services can assist with learning how to function in a new and unfamiliar role as caregiver to a parent.  Our caregivers allow the maintenance of a family’s schedule while providing personalized home care to their loved one. 

If you are looking for home care services in Brookline, Watertown, Newton, Canton, Wellesley and nearby areas, call Visiting Angels Newton/Canton at 617-795-2727 for a free in-home consultation. 

Everyday Eldercare Needs

Summary: Routine tasks and responsibilities, such as housekeeping, personal grooming, and health maintenance may become overwhelming for a senior.  In-home eldercare can help with these chores and be the support one needs to remain in their homes. 
​________________________________________________________________________  

Many seniors are able to live independently, but there are some daily tasks that may become too much for them.  In their younger days, one would take for granted the ability to do the laundry or clean the kitchen. To an elderly person, with perhaps some physical limitations, these tasks are daunting and overwhelming.  In-home caregivers are great supports for families who need help with a loved-one with these tasks.    

Statistics are showing more and more seniors choosing to age at home (1). The goal is to be able to live on their own with support, as needed.  The continuation of their routines in their homes and communities is good for their physical and mental health.  A family may consider a nursing home or assisted living facility when a parent starts having trouble with basic responsibilities. In some cases, this may be necessary, but with some daily assistance with their routines, aging at home is becoming achievable to more and more seniors and people with disabilities.    

Some everyday routines that loved-ones may need assistance with are meal preparation, housekeeping and errands. The choice to have specialized meals prepared, daily exercise routines, cognitive health exercises and monitoring and reminders on which medications to take, can, in some cases, enhance someone’s life and well-being.  Perhaps tasks like getting dressed and basic grooming and hygiene are a challenge for an individual, but with assistance, these tasks can be accomplished with little stress.  Having a daily grooming routine has been shown to improve mental health and elevate a person’s mood (2). A companion can assist with these chores and more while allowing a person to remain in their homes.    

An in-home elder care service provides loving and secure caregivers to help with shopping, light cleaning and food preparation.  They assist with tasks of which an individual may no longer be capable, day or night; therefore allowing them to stay in their homes safely and happily.  An in-home elder care service can be an alternative to an assisted living facility or nursing home, and their caregivers are available part or full time.   

1. https://www.inclinator.com/5-benefits-aging-in-place/
2. http://miamihomecareservices.com/blog/personal-hygiene-and-its-importance-for-seniors/ 
 
 About Visiting Angels Newton/Canton:
Visiting Angels Newton/Canton MA is an award-winning local home care agency providing high caliber in-home care services to elderly and people with disabilities. Countless families have benefited from our dementia care, Alzheimer's care, companion care, elderly care, respite support, transitional aid, and senior home care services in Wellesley, Newton, Needham, Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Canton, Westwood, Dedham, Watertown, Natick, Stoughton, Roslindale, Norwood and nearby towns . While non-medical in nature, the care provided by Visiting Angels Newton/Canton can make a big impact on your loved one's happiness and quality of life. Call us at 617-795-2727 for information!

Why Choosing the Right Caregiver is So Important

As the number of seniors in the U.S. continues to grow—indeed, the first “Baby Boomers” will turn 65 in 2011—so does the market for non-medical senior homecare services.  Chances are, you will at some point be looking for a caregiver for an elderly family member.  Visiting Angels is one of the nations leading providers of non-medical senior homecare, with over 170 locations nationwide.
 
According to Barney Freiberg-Dale, co-owner of Visiting Angels Newton/Canton, Massachusetts, “At Visiting Angels, we are dedicated to working with clients and their families to ensure the best possible non-medical home care services.  Nothing is better than providing the quality care that allows an elderly client to stay in the comfort of their own home.”  
 
“Today’s seniors wish to maintain their independence and quality of life as long as possible,” states Barney Freiberg-Dale.  “At the same time, their adult children are often sandwiched between taking care of their own offspring and helping their elderly parent, who may live hours away.  That’s why our non-medical home care agency has become popular in the Newton, Canton and nearby areas.”
 
“Many seniors do not require a nurse, but simply need the assistance Visiting Angels provides helping with the tasks of daily living,” continues Barney Freiberg-Dale. 
 
Visiting Angels’ services include, meal preparation, basic household chores, personal hygiene, shopping, companionship and, in some case, providing a respite for family caregivers. In addition, for clients who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia, Visiting Angels provide caregivers who are trained in dementia care techniques, and we provide guidance to family members, so they have tools and skills to assist with their loved-ones as well. Our Alzheimer’s home caregivers and dementia home caregivers always treat clients with dignity and respect.
 
Due to the increased need for such assistance, many non-medical homecare agencies are sprouting up across the landscape. However, not all agencies are alike, and it’s important to understand the differences.
 
Visiting Angels Newton/Canton understands that each client has unique needs. Therefore, we design a personalized care plan for each client, based on the results of an initial in-home consultation by one of our case managers.
 
Then we carefully choose the right caregiver for the client, considering factors such as technical skills, personality traits, and experience.
 
Our home caregivers are professional, experienced and always treat clients with respect and dignity. They are trained with the use of Hoyer lifts, gait belt or other transfer equipment.

We are on call 24/7 at 617-795-2727, always ready to provide help to your loved one. And, we have a large pool of back-up caregivers. Your loved one will not be alone if your regular caregiver cannot provide service due to unexpected circumstances.
​
Visiting Angels Newton/Canton has won the Best of Home Care Provider of Choice, Leader in Excellence and Employer of Choice from Home Care Pulse for years. Our quality is recognized! If you loved one needs senior home care assistance in Wellesley, Newton, Needham, Canton, Watertown, Brookline and nearby areas, please call us at 617-795-2727 for a free consultation.
 

Let an Angel Help You Care for Your Loved One

In a perfect world, you would be able to take care of your aging parent in your home or theirs, relying only on family to help you. But the reality is that caring for an aging or ill parent is a full-time job that can take a toll on the caregiver. Add to that the demands of raising a family, working, and other responsibilities, and chances are you’ll need a little assistance along the way.

That’s where the angels come in. Visiting Angels is a national network of franchised non-medical senior home care agencies providing senior homecare to help elderly and older adults continue to live in their homes. These caring, experienced home caregivers provide up to 24-hour care in the comfort of your own home.

You can be confident that your caregiver is qualified and has excellent references. “Character counts,” says Richard Bitner, of Visiting Angels. “We hire only experienced caregivers who pass a rigorous screening process.” The company also emphasizes the intangible traits of the caregiver, such as a caring personality. Many of the company’s caregivers have grown tired of the Medicare model taking over healthcare and appreciate the opportunity to do one-on-one personal care for elders.

The staff at Visiting Angels works with each family to develop an individualized program to manage the daily needs of the client. They then match those needs to the best possible caregiver; caregivers are then introduced to the family, who has the final say in the selection process.

“We want our clients to look forward to a visit by their caregiver,” says Bitner. “That’s why the client is in complete control from start to finish.” After the caregiver has been placed in your home, the company continues its personalized contact through telephone check-in and home visits to make sure you and your caregiver are a good match.

Although Visiting Angels are non-medical home care providers, they can provide a vital link in patient care. In cases where seniors are coming home from the hospital or a nursing home, the caregiver will consult with doctors, nursing home staff, social workers, physical therapists, and of course, the family, to establish each client’s personalized needs. Although Visiting Angels do not dispense drugs, they can help monitor whether the patient is taking their medication.

In addition to offering joyful companionship, Visiting Angels will do light housekeeping, run errands, prepare meals or do shopping. They can also serve as a respite care provider for families dealing with the care of a loved one.  They can also provide special assistance for adults who need Alzheimer's home care or dementia care.

Visiting Angels Newton/Canton is an award-winning senior home care agency serving Wellesley, Natick, Newton, Needham, Canton, Watertown, Brookline and nearby communities. Since 2004, countless families have benefited from our dementia home care, Alzheimer's care, companion care, elderly care, respite support, transitional aid, and senior care services. If your loved one needs home care assistance, please contact us at 617-795-2727 for a free in-home consultation!