New Location for the Right at Home L.A. Blog

Along with the launch of our new website at www.glendale.rightathome.net we've moved our blog from our blogspot site to our new site.

We'll still keep our old blog up and running so you can visit it anytime right here at www.rightathomela.blogspot.com.

However, from this point forward we'll be posting on to our new blog site

So thank you to all of our old readers who are moving with us to our new site and we welcome all of our new readers.

Thank you for your continued interest in Right at Home.

Can a Robot Seal Really Take Care of Grandma?

Who doesn't want to hear more stories about senior citizens and robot seals? I sure don't and thanks to our friends at newser.com...we don't have to.

Is Paro—the adorable robotic seal designed to comfort the elderly—the best thing to happen to solitary seniors since the Clapper, or a tasteless substitute for human attention? Manufactured in Japan and recently cleared in the US as a Class 2 medical device, the $6,000 robot is intended as a sort of pet therapy (it can recognize voices and make "weird" sounds), just without the messiness of a living animal. But ethicists fear that we’re putting the emotional well-being of seniors in the hands (flippers?) of a gadget.

"Why are we so willing to provide our parents, then ourselves, with faux relationships?" asks one MIT professor. But Paro’s fans say it’s invaluable for certain needy patients, particularly dementia sufferers, reports the Wall Street Journal. The seal’s European distributor requires nursing home employees to take a class on the device, so they don’t allow patients to, in the words of one consultant, “escape into a strange seal robot’s universe.”

Activities for Senior Citizens in Los Angeles

As we head into the Dog Days of Summer, we thought the following list of activities and events for Senior Citizens throughout the Los Angeles area might of some value.

Summer Recreation Classes (City of Garden Grove)
Monday, July 5 7:00p
City of Garden Grove, Garden Grove
The Community Services Department offers year-round programs that provide a full range of opportunities for life enrichment, self improvement, personal growth, and artistic expression.

NARFE (National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association)
Wednesday, July 7 1:00pm
Joslyn Senior Center, Covina

Lean 101 Workshop
Thursday, Aug 5 9:00am
Cmtc Headquarters, Torrance
CMTC Presents the Lean 101 Workshop August 5, 2010 - 9:00am - 3:00pm - Lunch provided CMTC presents the 2010 Lean 101 Workshop.

Google Seminars for Success - Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, Aug 21 9:00am
Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale & Mtg Center, Glendale
Google™ Seminars for Success Learn Google Analytics & Website Optimizer in the Classroom! Make it a full week of training: Join Stasia Holdren for Monday & Tuesday's Google AdWords Seminars for Success!

Super Senior Saturday "Seniorstock 2010"
Saturday, Aug 28 10:00am
Buena Park Senior Activity Center, Buena Park
Come Boomers, come Seniors to the grooviest aging health fair of the year. Join us for a far out day of peace, love and information.

9th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair
Sunday, Sep 26 10:00am
West Hollywood Park Auditorium, West Hollywood
The City of West Hollywood and LA Weekly present the multiple, award-winning West Hollywood Book Fair that will take place on Sunday, September 26, 2010 at 10 am.

Happy Independence Day!

Everyone at Right at Home would like to wish you a happy and safe Independence Day!

Hipster Culture is Having a Senior Moment

I saw this L.A. Times Article from last month, published shortly after Betty White hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live. I enjoyed it and thought you might enjoy it as well. It was written by Tricia Romano. You can cccess the full article, as well as the rest of the L.A. Times online, here.

The average age of the American hipster has just gone up, way up.

Samuel Halpern, the 74-year-old subject of a Twitter feed based on his profane observations (currently being developed into a TV show, tentatively named "Stuff My Dad Says," starring William Shatner) has 1.3 million fans who eagerly await his every uncensored utterance. Halpern is not the only senior citizen rocking the Internet: DJ Ruth Flowers, a.k.a. Mamy Rock, is a seventysomething former singer-turned-jet-setting dance music DJ with a penchant for sparkly headphones and track suits, who became a YouTube sensation this year, nabbing hundreds of thousands of hits after going viral on Twitter.

And Hollywood's latest It Girl is none other than platinum-haired, 88-year-old Betty White. After starring in a Snickers Super Bowl ad, the former "Golden Girls" actress became the center of a Facebook campaign lobbying for White to host "Saturday Night Live." Half a million people can't be wrong — she was scheduled to host the show Saturday.

Suddenly, at least in parts of the blogosphere, it's hip to be old — a paradoxical twist for a youth-obsessed nation that injects, pulls and carves away any semblance of age. The "olds" (as sites like Gawker.com dub those old enough to remember rotary phones) are the subject of Facebook fan pages, YouTube shows, Twitter feeds and even fashion blogs.

Why is our youth-obsessed society suddenly so fascinated with the 65-plus set. For one thing, they are almost exotic creatures in our fractured modern lives, glimpsed only on major holidays.

"There's been a fragmentation of the family, and older people seemed to be left behind — put them in a home and put them away," Flowers said by phone from Paris, where she was getting her hair twisted into platinum white spikes. "My grandmother was my life!" said Flowers, noting ruefully that she lives more than 100 miles away from her grandson.

Not surprisingly, this interest in the elderly is also somewhat narcissistic. It's not like young hipsters are gleaning bits of history from these grandparental figures, as Ruth Flowers did when she was young, learning about the Titanic and other world events.

No, they're interested in one subject above all else: themselves.

This Father's Day, Remind Dad About Health Screenings

Father's Day is a great day to celebrate fathers! It's also a great day to take stock of men's health and well being, to help Dad enjoy many more Father's Days.

Men lead women in 14 of the top 15 causes of death in the United States. More than half of premature deaths in men are preventable. But most men are not aware that simple screening tests can dramatically improve their health. University of Maryland Medical Center experts offer this list:

Heart Health. Cardiovascular disease kills over 410,000 men each year. Risk factors for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol, can begin in the thirties. Mandeep R. Mehra, MBBS, head of cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, tells us that unfortunately many men do not pay attention to the heart and may feel invulnerable to heart disease.

Recommendations: (1) Blood pressure. Normal blood pressure in adults is below 120/80. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. One out of every four men has high blood pressure, but many men are unaware that they have it. High blood pressure is sometimes called the "silent killer," because it usually has no noticeable symptoms until other serious problems occur. Blood pressure should be checked at least every two years, starting at age 18, or more frequently if it is at or above 140/90 or if you have other risk factors. Ask your doctor. Don't have time for an appointment with a health care provider? Stop by a neighborhood fire station for a free blood pressure check-up. (2) Cholesterol. Your total cholesterol number should be below 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and your good cholesterol (HDL) should be 40 mg/dL or higher. A lipid panel test (a simple blood test that measures blood fats such as cholesterol or triglyceride) is recommended for all men age 35 and up, and much earlier if heart disease runs in the family.

Diabetes. This chronic disease can be life threatening if it is not controlled. Complications include: heart disease and stroke, blindness or vision problems, nerve damage, kidney damage, gum disease, sleep apnea, and depression. Risk factors include: obesity, a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal blood fat levels, and an inactive lifestyle.

Recommendations: According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, men age 45 or over, especially those who are overweight, should be screened for diabetes. Testing is also strongly recommended in men younger than 45 who are overweight with one or more risk factors. If results are normal, testing is recommended every three years.

Prostate Health. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind lung cancer. The best way for a man to protect himself is to catch prostate problems early, when chances of successful treatment are better.

Recommendations: Two prostate screening tests are advised: a physical exam, and a blood test, called a prostate specific antigen test. Dr. Michael J. Naslund of the University of Maryland School of Medicine recommends that men begin the physical exam and the PSA test at age 50. Two groups at higher risk for prostate cancer—men with a family history of the cancer and African-American men—should begin the screening when they are 40.

Colorectal (Colon) Cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in men, after prostate cancer and lung cancer. Healthcare providers suggest one or more tests for colorectal cancer screening. These include a colonoscopy, which is used to visually examine the lining of the large intestine. Other screening methods include virtual colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and double contrast barium.

Recommendations: The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50, men at average risk for developing colorectal cancer receive a colonoscopy every 10 years; or a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years; or a virtual colonoscopy every five years. Men with a family history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps or a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease should begin screening earlier.

Skin Cancer. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, men are more likely to develop skin cancers than women. One form of skin cancer, called melanoma, causes about 73 percent of skin cancer deaths.

Recommendations: A monthly mole self-exam should be performed by men in all age groups. In addition, starting at age 20, a doctor should do a mole exam every three years. For men 40 and older, a doctor should do a mole exam every year.

Additional Screening

The University of Maryland team also reminds men to speak with their healthcare provider about the right schedule for dental exams, vision and hearing care screenings and immunizations.

Source: University of Maryland Medical Center.

The History of Flag Day

Today is Flag Day! This is an oft-overlooked holiday. It seems these days even Arbor Day gets more attention. And let's not even talk about Groundhog Day. There was a whole movie about Groundhog Day. But Flag Day...no movie starring Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis...no public spectacle featuring Al Gore and the guys from Wilco. So we felt we'd take this time to teach everyone a little bit about what Flag Day is all about.

There are two recognized definitions of the term, Flag Day. The first definition is used to designate a day to fly a flag of a certain area, mostly that of nations. The second term is that a day is set aside to honour an event specifically involving a national flag (eg. creation/adoption).

Flag days are usually codified in national statutes, however, a decree by a head of state of the specific country can also order flag days. The display of the national flag on this day, mainly to fix it at either full or half staff. The locations of where the flags are flown (and how are they flown) can be also dictated by national law or decree.

In the United States, Flag Day (more formally, National Flag Day), is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

In 1916, Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, though on June 14, 1937, Pennsylvania became the first (and only) U.S. state to celebrate Flag Day as a state holiday.

June is "Home Safety" Month

June is “Home Safety Month,” an opportunity to educate and empower older adults and their families to take action and increase the safety of their homes. The aging population can continue to live safely and independently in their homes by implementing fall prevention and fire safety habits.

“No one wants to think about being injured at home as it is a safe haven for many of us,” said Doug Dickstein, President of Right at Home in Glendale. “Thankfully there are many simple actions you can take to help save lives and prevent injuries. Right at Home is available to help older adults and their loved ones identify and correct household hazards that can lead to slips, falls and other dangers.”

For many older adults, falls can be a life-changing event leading to less mobility, independence and even death. According to the Home Safety Council, an average of nearly 5,000 Americans age 65 and older die from fall-related injuries in their homes each year. Right at Home offers free in-home assessments that include a safety check walk-through of a senior’s home to identify potential fall hazards and other safety ideas. For more information on these assessments, contact Doug Dickstein at 818-956-5905 or doug@rahglendale.com or visit www.glendale.rightathome.net. The Home Safety Council also offers the following tips for fall prevention:

• Install handrails on both sides of the stairs and ensure they go from the top to the bottom.
• Tape small rugs to the floor or do not use them at all as they can be a tripping hazard.
• Have plenty of lights at the top and bottom of the stairs and be sure to keep them clear of debris.
• Place night lights in the bedroom, hallway and bathroom.
• Lay a mat or non-slip strips in the tub and shower and have grab bars installed.

Older adults and their families are also encouraged to prepare for fire emergencies. Older adults are twice as likely to suffer injuries or lose their lives in a fire than the general population, according to the Home Safety Council. The Home Safety Council also offers the following tips for fire safety:

• Make sure there is a least one working fire alarm on each level of the home, located inside or near sleeping areas.
• Create a home escape plan and practice it at least twice a year. Move the bedroom to the first floor to escape outside quickly in case of a fire.
• Keep escape routes clear and make sure doors and windows open easily.
• Keep a phone in the bedroom to call for help if necessary.
• Always stay in the kitchen when food is cooking on the stove and avoid loose clothing while cooking.
• Smokers should use large, deep ashtrays on a sturdy table and stay alert while smoking.
• Plug only one cord into each electrical outlet and unplug appliances when not in use.

“Taking many of these simple safety steps can help to keep older adults living safely and independently in their own homes,” Dickstein said. “We know that living independently has many benefits and we are privileged to help older adults maintain their independence and enjoy a full life.”

Social Networking Offers Many Benefits for Seniors

Seniors are increasingly turning to social networks for companionship and support. Social networking provides opportunities for seniors to meet new people, stay in touch with family and friends and support their hobbies and interests. Facebook was the third most popular online destination for people 65 or older in November 2009, compared to the forty-fifth most popular destination in 2008, according to The Nielsen Company.

The most popular social networking site is Facebook, which is used by 90 percent of senior social media users, according to a recent eMarketer study. However, experts from aging, healthcare and senior services have joined together with social media experts to create interactive sites connecting seniors through common interests, such as Eons and Vibrant Nation.

“Social media is giving seniors a voice and an outlet to communicate without limitations,” said Doug Dickstein, president of Right at Home in Los Angeles, a provider of in-home care throughout the Greater Los Angeles area. “It is not only bridging the generational gap with their grandchildren and younger generations of their families, but allowing them to create new social groups at a stage in their life when it is often difficult to do so.”

Benefits of Social Networks
The benefits of social networks are similar to the benefits of real-world groups of friends and families. About one-third of people 75 and older live alone, according to a 2009 study from AARP. Many seniors feel a sense of isolation, and social networking is an easy solution to find companions with shared likes and interests through groups, discussion boards, polls and relevant articles. Topics ranging from gardening to travel to volunteer opportunities are engaging seniors.

Social networking is a great option for seniors with limited mobility, as it can be done independently from the comfort of their own homes. They also may deal with hearing problems which make it challenging to talk on the phone. The Internet offers methods of communication that work for almost everyone. They can independently view photos of their grandchildren, follow their family’s activities and reconnect with old friends. Many sites also feature engaging and stimulating brain games to keep aging minds young and vital.

As seniors age, they often reach out for support for life challenges and health issues. Many social networking sites feature discussion boards and groups focused on health, aging and fitness. The encouraged open communication can help combat depression and provide a support group without leaving the home.

Tips for Getting Started
Social networking can help seniors stay connected like never before. But many may feel apprehensive about embracing the growing technology. They may ask themselves “How do I know where to begin?” or “Why should I join in?” Seniors may want an introduction to the basics of Internet use. Many community centers and organizations offer introductory classes to help seniors feel more comfortable while venturing out into social networking spaces. Also, social networking has a language of its own. There are many online resources available for seniors to become familiar with terms including “status update,” “wall” and “pokes,” including this recent article from AARP.

Seniors must also decide which type of community to join. Some, like Eons, are more interest-focused, while others, like Facebook, offer the opportunity to connect online with family and close friends. Most sites are free and require only an email address and password. Once an account is setup, seniors can add to their profile, express themselves and interact with people all over the world.

However, every age group has vulnerabilities online and seniors are no exception. It is important to be aware of hackers, scammers and identity theft. By getting to know the privacy settings on the site being used, seniors can control who can and can’t see the information they are sharing. Seniors should also be aware of emails from friends selling products and services or requesting money. If it doesn’t sound right, their friend’s account may have been hacked without them realizing it. This recent article from Right at Home’s free adult caregiving eNewsletter, Caring Right at Home, offers 10 ways for seniors to stay safe online.

Social networking provides seniors with a sense of purpose. They can feel empowered by making new connections and staying involved in society without having to rely on their loved ones for transportation or assistance. Seniors can easily enjoy the benefits and discover the joy of connecting with others online.

Older Americans Month 2010 Promotion Theme: ‘Age Strong! Live Long!’

"May is Older Americans Month - a tradition dating back to 1963 to honor the legacies and ongoing contributions of older Americans and support them as they enter the next stage in life,” according to a news release prepared by the Administration on Aging for local media as part of the effort to encourage communities nationwide to celebrate this month with special activities and events.

This year’s Older Americans Month theme - “Age Strong! Live Long!” - recognizes the diversity and vitality of today’s older Americans who span three generations, according to the AOA news release.

“They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans,” adds the news release.

“These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. But the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.

“Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever before. And with the aging of the baby boomer generation—the largest in our nation’s history - America’s senior population is expected to number 71.5 million by 2030.

“While keeping the growing population of older Americans healthy and active will increase the demand for senior services, what is remarkable is the extent to which older Americans themselves are supporting each other. As the new generations of seniors become better educated and more financially secure than their predecessors, they are spending more time making significant contributions in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities.

“In fact, older Americans are a core component of service delivery to seniors—embodying and modeling the drive to Age Strong! Live Long! They volunteer at group meal sites and deliver food to homebound seniors; they act as escorts and provide transportation for older adults who cannot drive; they help seniors with home repair, shopping and errands; and they provide vital counseling, information and referral services.

“Their energy and commitment reminds all Americans—not just senior citizens and their caregivers—to do their part to enhance the quality of life for older generations.

“The annual commemoration of Older Americans Month is our opportunity to recognize the contributions of older citizens and join them in providing services and support that empower the elderly.

"Americans of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer with programs that improve health literacy, increase access to quality health services, offer food and nutrition services, provide financial and housing counseling, sponsor social activities and community engagement, and more.

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting http://www.eldercare.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116 to find out what you can do to strengthen services for older Americans, this month and all year round.”

History of Older Americans Month

When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthdays. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs.

Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing, however. In April of 1963, President John F. Kennedy's meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens served as a prelude to designating May as "Senior Citizens Month."

President Jimmy Carter decided in 1980 that what was once called Senior Citizens Month, should be called "Older Americans Month," which has become the tradition.

Historically, Older Americans Month has been promoted as a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country.

Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs and other such activities.

excerpted from SeniorJournal.com

Health care reform bill 101: What does it mean for seniors?

The recently signed Health Care Reform Bill has many people thinking. Some people are excited about what it may mean to their ability to access health services; others are scared about what benefits might be taken away. This overview posted back in March by the Christian Science Monitor offers an overview of what Seniors might expect.

Many senior citizens worry about the effect that the health care reform bill may have on them. After all, they generally use the health care system more than do younger people. And those living on fixed incomes may have little leeway in their budgets to help if their health costs rise.

Would the healthcare reform legislation that President Obama plans to sign into law on Tuesday affect seniors in any direct way?

The short answer is “yes.”

Healthcare 101: What the bill means to you

The longer answer is that some seniors may lose Medicare benefits they now enjoy. Many others will gain from an enhancement of Medicare’s prescription-drug program.

Here are some specifics on these changes:

Medicare cuts

Under the healthcare reform bill, government payments to Medicare Advantage – plans that are run by private insurers such as Humana and are an alternative to traditional Medicare – will be cut by $132 billion over 10 years. (Those plans currently get somewhat more per person from the government than traditional Medicare does.)

Medicare Advantage plans often offer extra benefits that seniors in traditional Medicare don’t get. It is possible that these extras will be dropped as Medicare Advantage plans feel a budget squeeze.

In most areas of the United States, this reduction will be phased in over three years, beginning in 2011, although in some places it will take longer.

The bill does not contain cuts to traditional Medicare benefits. However, Medicare payments for home healthcare would be reduced by $40 billion between now and 2019. And certain payments to hospitals would be cut by $22 billion over that same period.

Medicare enhancements

The bill would bolster the existing Medicare prescription-drug benefit by addressing part of its “doughnut hole” problem.

Right now, after a senior has spent $2,700 on drugs in a year, coverage stops until that same person has spent $6,154 on drugs, when it starts up again.

Hence the “doughnut hole” nickname.

Beginning in 2010, people who fall into this hole will get $250 from the government to help. Thereafter, according to the bill, the US will gradually increase the percentage of drug costs it pays within this gap. By 2020, the US will pay 75 percent of senior drug costs between $2,700 and $6,154.

Medicare will also begin to pick up the tab for annual wellness visits.

Medicare payment advisory board

Healthcare reform legislation also establishes what it terms an Independent Payment Advisory Board, made up of 15 members, that would submit legislative proposals to reduce per capita Medicare spending if that spending grows too fast.

“Too fast” is defined as exceeding the growth rate of Consumer Price Index measures for a five-year period that ends in 2013.

If that happens, beginning in 2014, this board will submit proposals to Congress and the president for consideration.

Some critics have charged that this board will be the leading edge of Medicare reductions. Legislative wording in the healthcare reform bill prohibits the board from submitting any idea that would ration care, raise taxes, or change benefits.

Caregiver of the Month - Susan P.

The Right at Home caregiver of the month for this past April was Susan P.

Susan becomes the first Right at Home caregiver to win the Caregiver of the Month award a second time.

Susan has been working four (4) different cases for Right at Home in the Glendale & Atwater Village areas and is one of the longest tenured employees at Right at Home.

In the past month, Susan not only continued her diligent work but also actually helped get a client to return to Right at Home after a brief break and her excellence even had them increase the amount of hours they wanted her to work.

Congratulations Susan!

Happy Cinco de Mayo from Right at Home

While it's true that May 5th has very little resonance in Mexico, it's still celebrated here stateside - especially in beautiful Los Angeles.

So Right at Home would like to wish everyone a happy Cinco de Mayo!

Assembling the Right at Home Team

The 2010 NFL draft recently took place – the day when pro football teams “draft” college football players they believe will improve their chances of being successful.

When I was a kid I loved the draft. Between the 4th and 12th grade, I faked being sick every single draft day so I could stay home and watch this annual event. Whether something would shock you (the Raiders always do something kooky) or just confuse you (the Giants once drafted a player who was blind) I always find the NFL draft to be fascinating.

So what does this have to do with providing caregivers? Well I feel that we hire caregivers not unlike teams evaluate college players. We check references (teams review college games) and conduct competency tests and background checks (teams conduct athletic tests) before we’re ready to draft – or more accurately hire – someone as a caregiver.

We recognize mistakes we’ve made in hiring and learn from that. Sometimes we’re pleasantly surprised with how good one of our caregivers turns out to be.

And as time passes, you assemble your team. Caregivers like Susan from Glendale, our 2008 Caregiver of the Year, who’s has been called “family” by virtually every client she’s worked with; Megan from Eagle Rock, who hasn’t shown up late in nearly 2 years; George from Santa Monica, who one client called “truly gifted” or Charmie from Reseda who her client refers to as “the kindest person ever.”

Not all of our employees turn out to be the equivalent of an All-Star player. But you can trust that at Right at Home we make sure we have our own Super Bowl caliber team ready to help you and your loved one when you need us the most.

Tips When Caring for an Elderly Loved One - Day 2

Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This is Day 2 highlighting some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.

Complains about real or imagined physical symptoms?

Set a time limit for these health “complaint” sessions. Listen, be sympathetic, and offer solutions. Then, declare the complaint time over and divert their attention to a different topic or activity. If the moaning and groaning doesn’t stop, give three warnings, use the silent treatment, then walk away.

Try a simple test to see if their symptoms might be psychosomatic or just for attention. The next time they complain of a minor ache or pain, quickly put a vitamin pill in their mouth, pretending the pill is an aspirin. See if the mysterious pain immediately goes away. Don’t tell them that their pains are not real, but privately let their doctor know what you discover.

Together, write down their symptoms in order of what bothers them the most. When you go to the doctor, see which symptoms they actually end up complaining about. Have the doctor address each issue, take notes, and cross each item off the list as they are reviewed. If your loved one is embarrassed to complain to the doctor, take charge and make sure the doctor knows all symptoms including: sleep, appetite, energy changes, memory problems, alterations in mood, inability to do basic things, incontinence, depression, anxiety and anger. Speak with the doctor in private if necessary.

Frequently bring all medications (prescriptions and all over the counter vitamins, etc.) to the doctor’s to make sure there are no interactions. When a new medicine is prescribed, ask if any specific foods and alcohol should be avoided while taking this drug. Should this drug be taken with or without food? Should this drug be taken at a certain time of day? Is it all right to continue normal activities, such as driving? All drugs have side effects, and can interact with each other and produce further complications.

Get a lock box for their medications if you have any suspicions that they are not being taking appropriately. Hide a spare key someplace in their home in case you forget or lose your key, or if someone else has to give the medications if you cannot get there.

Home Care Helps Seniors Manage Painful Conditions

Pain isn't "just a part of growing older"

Though physical pain isn't inevitable as we grow older, seniors are more likely to have arthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, angina, shingles or other conditions that cause pain.

Home care worker with senior clientPain diminishes quality of life and independence. It even increases the risk of falls. And yet, while older adults are more likely to experience pain, they are the least likely to ask for or receive relief. Many believe they are "just getting older." Or, they hesitate to speak up because they "don't want to be a bother."

How can family help? If your loved one is experiencing pain and hasn't recently raised the subject with his healthcare provider, encourage him to request an evaluation of his current pain control regimen, and to discuss alternate solutions that might be more effective. Today's pain specialists have a wider array of treatment options than ever before.

Finding the right "prescription" for pain control is only the beginning. Following the doctor's instructions best ensures positive results, but a senior who is experiencing chronic pain may find it difficult to comply with the pain control strategy. Families can help by offering encouragement and helping with practical tasks. And when family can't be there, professional home care services can provide an extra measure of support.

Home care professionals have learned from years of experience that supporting pain management is a vital quality of life element for the seniors they serve. Home health aides support pain management in several proactive ways:

Medication management: The doctor may prescribe pain control drugs. Common drugs include:

* over-the-counter products such as aspirin and ibuprofen;
* opioid drugs such as morphine and codeine;
* antidepressants;
* muscle relaxants;
* steroids; and
* topical medications.

It is important to take these medications correctly, but this can be a challenge, especially if your loved one has multiple health conditions. A home health aide can remind your loved one to take medications on time and in the way they are supposed to be taken. The aide can also take your loved one to the pharmacy or pick up prescriptions, help with pill organizers and dispensers, and report any signs of side effects.

Promote compliance with physical treatments. Medications are not the only option for pain relief. Your loved one may benefit from physical therapy, which might include massage, heat and cold, biofeedback or electrical treatments such as a spinal cord stimulator or TENS device. Pain control specialists might also prescribe relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi or breathing exercises. A home health aide can transport your loved one to appointments or classes. If home exercises are prescribed, the aide can provide encouragement and supervision.

Encourage physical activity. Staying active may well be the most important "medicine" for your loved one's health. Study after study confirms that physical activity improves arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and other painful conditions. And exercise increases the production of endorphins, the body's own pain reliever. Families report that the presence of a professional caregiver gives their loved one the self-confidence to follow their individual exercise plan, and to be more active in general.

Decreasing depression and anxiety. Pain isn't "all in our head," but how we think about pain does make a difference. Depression, anxiety and loneliness magnify the perception of pain. Families understand this, and often worry about their loved one being home alone while they can't be there. An in-home caregiver can provide transportation to the senior center, to Bible study or to other social events your loved one enjoys. Seniors report that just having another person around the house is a mood brightener that "takes your mind off your aches and pains."

Dementia care support. Pain control is especially challenging when a loved one has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia. Sometimes pain underlies behavior changes such as wandering and aggressiveness. Yet your loved one may be unable to express that they are feeling pain. According to professional in-home caregivers, it's important to be aware of signals that indicate pain, such as slower movements, decreased function, wincing or irritability.

Untreated, pain can lead to a cycle of decline that makes it impossible for a senior to stay in his or her home or retirement community. Persistent pain that has an impact on physical function, psychological function or quality of life should be treated appropriately. In-home care can be an effective addition to the pain management team.

Senior Care Tax Deductions

With taxes due in just a few days its a good reminder that often times in-home care can be deducted from your taxes.

Our friends at caregiverlist.com provide a nice little recap of possible tax deductions for care below.

As the tables turn and children become the caregiver for their parents, and as the senior care expenses begin adding up, family caregivers often ask if Uncle Sam offers a tax deduction similar to the tax deduction for child care.

The answer is, yes, if you are able to claim the elderly relative as a dependent (your parent does not have to live with you but you must be providing for more than half of their financial support, which includes food and transportation). If you and your parent meet the Internal Revenue Service's criteria, you will be able to deduct up to $3,400.00 from your taxable income (for year 2007). Social Security benefits are not counted in most cases.

In addition, the Internal Revenue Service lets you deduct medical costs as long as they are more than 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. This may include the medical (and dental) expenses of everyone listed on your tax return, including your spouse and dependents. You may be able to include some of the expenses paid for a parent, along with expenses for a caregiver.

Keep in mind medical expenses include travel expenses to and from medical treatments, along with uninsured treatments, such as hearing aides and false teeth. If more than one child participates in the financial support of the parent, some families rotate the deduction to a different child each year.

Please do consult your accountant and review the specifics on the IRS publication guides (IRS Publication 502 covers medical expense deductions and IRS Publication 554 covers dependent care deductions).

How the City Crisis Hits Home

It's been a little while since I posted an article from Stephanie Vendig of the Greater Griffith Park Senior Center, but her take on Los Angeles' budget crisis is certainly worth a read. You can read Stephanie's column every month in the Los Feliz Ledger at www.losfelizledger.com

The news is bleak for our city, including our school district, as never before. And when you add in the State, it is pretty catastrophic. For these local public entities these days, it is not about tightening the belt or getting rid of the fluff. We are talking about core services that impact all of us, in one way or the other. In order to avert bankruptcy or other costly consequences, there is a scrambling to find all kinds of ways to reduce the financial burden.

The recommendations of Miguel Santana, City Administrative Officer, in his “Three-Year Plan for Fiscal Sustainability” report to the Mayor and the City Council on January 29th spelled out the alarm in 273 pages. LA’s economic woes are mainly due to the economic recession beginning in 2008 as a consequence of our local real estate downturn, which has been severe, and the unemployment rate higher than in all previous recessions. The revenue that mainly comes from, sales, business, hotel, communication users, and gas user’s taxes, hasn’t been enough to cover the costs. Currently, the City Council and the Mayor are struggling to come to agreement on the recommendations.

Because of my involvement with Los Angeles Dept. of Recreation and Parks at the Griffith Park Adult Community Center (GPACC) I am paying attention to this crisis a little more than usual. The department is asked to reimburse the general fund for their utility costs, which has not been done in the past, and for their pension costs. As a result of these and other recommendations, the department may end up with a different sense of itself in order to live within the budget. However, these recommendations raise the specter of potentially hurting the recreational function of the department.

Already, layoffs have started with Recreation Coordinators, Child Care programs, and Therapeutic Centers. The early retirement of some Facility Directors may mean no replacement, and a group of current Facility Directors has been warned of possible layoffs by July. There are more than 390 sites, including 28 senior centers that provide recreational opportunities in Los Angeles. The idea that quality recreation programs can operate with limited staff is not very reassuring. Not only that, if there is not enough experienced and trained staff within these programs, the recreation part of “Recreation and Parks” will suffer.

I would say it is letter-writing time. We should remind councilmembers that cost-saving decisions must not result in the substantial reduction or the potential elimination of the recreation function of the department. Los Angeles deserves better.

Happy Easter from Right at Home

All of us at Right at Home would like to wish all of you a very happy Easter Sunday.

Caregiver of the Month - Annette P.

Right at Home is proud to announce that Annette P. has been named the Right at Home caregiver of the month for March 2010.

Annette is a C.N.A. currently going to school to become a Registered Nurse. She has worked with Right at Home since last year, primarily working 5 days a week on a case in the Los Feliz area for the past 5 months. As the case has grown more difficult and the clients needs have increased, Annette continues to work diligently to provide the best care possible while navigating a difficult family dynamic as well.

We are proud to have Annette has an employee of Right at Home.

Congratulations Annette!