Caring for a family member is emotionally taxing, especially in the case of memory loss. You can reduce your distress by concentrating on the present moment, the here and now, and by thinking of your relationship with a loved one as the glass half full.

Seize the Day!

Try to observe yourself while in your caretaking role. Identify your thoughts. Remember that “should haves” and “if onlys” are based on trying to rewrite the past, while “wants” and “what ifs” focus on the future. Both prompt anxiety and depression.  Be here now, for the day!

Life Is a Series of Precious Moments.

It is important to acknowledge your negative feelings without judging yourself. Accept what is. What’s happening now is a done deal. Simply allow it, don’t fight it in your mind, and you’ll be less stressed. Focus on the present. Stay out of the past and future in your thinking. Take a few deep breaths. Shift your attention to create room for something positive right now. Think of something that engages one of your senses; the taste of your coffee, the color of the sky, or the music on the radio.

Refresh and Be Refreshed.

Repeat as needed to refresh your outlook!

Lois Young-Tulin

Lois Young-Tulin, PhD, is an Assistant Geriatric Care Manager at Elder Connections

November is a time to honor those who facilitate a lifestyle that offers giving support and as much independence as possible to older adults.

Family Caregivers

President Barack Obama declared November as National Family Caregivers Month stating, “Across our country, millions of family members, neighbors, and friends provide care and support for their loved ones during times of need. With profound compassion and selflessness, these caregivers sustain American men, women and children at their most vulnerable moments, and through their devoted acts, they exemplify the best of the American spirit.”

Statistics from the Administration On Aging show that the population 65-years-old and older is expected to grow from its current 13% to 19% of the total population by 2030. With the older population increasing, the need for elder care giving will continue to increase.

Career Caregivers

Outside of family caregivers, we need to salute geriatric caregivers who perform a wide variety of roles that tend to the needs of seniors who live at home and in facilities.  Depending on the clients’ level of independence, job responsibilities of caregivers range from light housework, shopping, cooking, scheduling and driving clients to appointments, stores and social engagements, to reminding clients to take their medicine and assist them with bathing, dressing, grooming and using the toilet.

Certified Care More Important Than Certificates of Education

Although no specific educational degrees are required to become a geriatric caregiver, reputable care giving agencies require their job applicants to pass psychological and other tests, including background checks. Certified agencies, like Elder Connections, must meet strict federal requirements for patient care and management.

Providing Quality of Life Is Demanding

The physical demands of care taking can be rigorous. Duties may include light nursing, changing surgical dressings, giving medications, or changing bedpans. The emotional demands can also be rigorous. Patients may be difficult, depressed or violent and in as much need of emotional attention as they are of physical attention. But good caregivers derive great satisfaction from knowing they are helping their clients enjoy a better quality of life.

Celebrate Those Who Celebrate Others’ Well-Being

Our caregivers help the elderly live more comfortably at home or in a senior care facility. We ask you to please acknowledge them with a note, a gift of thanks or even an offering of your time to give them a needed break. Please let the people who graciously accept their duties to our beloved seniors that their service is recognized and appreciated.

Lois Young-Tulin

Lois Young-Tulin, PhD, is an Assistant Geriatric Care Manager at Elder Connections

For the past 13 years, I have been an active member of The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.  Obtaining my Certification from the National Academy of Certified Care Managers was a highlight of my career.

We’re Not Caring Just for Seniors, Anymore

As the years have gone by, it has been amazing how our mission to take care of seniors has expanded.  We could not have known how many younger people we would be helping.  Trust Officers have referred children with special needs to us.  The National local MS Society asked that we be a provider of Care Management services to their members.  All these relationships have given us the opportunity to manage people who have chronic health issues that require our expertise as advocates of their care.  We find our practice shifting and so do many of our colleagues across the country.

We Provide Care, Resources, Services and Advocacy to Every Age Group

This role is one that Geriatric Care Managers have had since our inception in the 1980’s.  We have developed as a profession to have certification be the core unifying factor in the disciplines of human service professionals who can call themselves, “Professional Care Managers”.  With a code of ethics and high professional ideals, we have been striving to care for and protect those who are facing medical challenges and require an advocate to lead them to the care, services, and resources they need to live the highest quality of life.

Trust Only Certified Professionals to Provide the Best Care and Support

The term Patient Advocate is one that you will be hearing more and more frequently in the years ahead.  It is important to be certain that your Care Advocate meets the criteria to function in this capacity.  Always choose those who are certified as a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. These professionals will always possess the highest integrity and skill to help navigate the health care system to protect, promote, and enhance those seeking the best care and support.

Beverly Bernstein Joie, MS, CMC

President Elder Connections

BY:  Beverly Bernstein Joie, MS, CMC
President Elder Connections

An Introduction to Peter

Part I

While Elder Connections focuses on issues related to aging, a part of our practice involves younger people who arechallenged by chronic conditions.  It was about six years ago, that we met Peter.

Living with Asperger’s Disorder

Peter is a man diagnosed with Asperger’s Disorder.  When Peter was born 63 years ago, this diagnosis was not yet defined.  Asperger’s Disorder is a type of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) that involves delays in development, particularly social development. These individuals have normal intelligence and usually normal language skills.  But, it is in the area of relating to others, that this disorder expresses itself.  The symptoms include: problems with social skills, eccentric or repetitive behaviors, rituals, communication difficulties, a limited range of interests, and coordination problems.  Many children with this disorder exhibit exceptional talent and skill in a particular area.

A Team of Caregivers

Childhood was challenging for Peter.  He was often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.  So, when his sister, Abby contacted Elder Connections, she was anxious to seek some kind of help to make Peter’s life turn around.  She knew that she could not go it alone. And, that’s when we created a team around Peter.  Peter’s team consists of me, a nurse, a nutritionist, a chef, excellent health care practitioners and an amazing sister.  There are also specialists who are called upon at various times for a specific purpose (more on that later).  Our goal is to support Peter in living the life he deserves in the community.

As his “quarterback”, I have brought the people to him to provide the support and expertise he requires.  It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.  I have watched all the contributors help Peter emerge as an individual with a life worth living.  I am proud to be on Peter’s team!

Who is on your team for better senior care or for a special needs individual?  Call us for a free consultation.  We can help!

Linda Fodrini-Johnson, Nat'l Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, Dr. Lewis M. Cohen & Beverly Bernstein Joie, Elder Connections

End of Life Issues

At no other time in history have the issues related to end of life presented us with such challenges.  We are being confronted as human beings with some of the most perplexing issues about how we choose to interface with our mortality and that of the people we love.

Care Management Leads the Way

Last week I attended The Mid Atlantic Chapter Conference of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers in Fairfax VA.  The conference was entitled “Care Management Leads The Way: Navigating Through the Healthcare Continuum”.  Among the presenters was Dr. Lewis M. Cohen, an internationally known psychiatrist from Tufts University School of Medicine.

Real Search at End of Life

In his newly published book, No Good Deed, Dr. Cohen’s account of two nurses reads like a murder mystery.  But, while death does occur in this rendering, the circumstances of death compel us to pay attention to the issues before us.  His powerful story is based upon real people who as professionals were caring for terminally ill patients.  Accused of the death of their charges, Dr. Cohen reveals what happens in these examples and others when end-of-life decisions are played out in hospitals, courtrooms and in the church.  He explores all sides of the controversy while examining a modern health system with the technical ability to prolong life while keeping in mind the real life issues of those who are suffering and dying.

Compassion in Health Care

We were all moved by Dr. Cohen’s tale of end-of –life issues and the human beings who attempt to serve this population with compassion in a health care climate that does not always support them.  The presentation came to life to those present when both Linda Fodrini-Johnson, President of The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers and I were selected to portray the nurses in the book.  The book and the issues portrayed came to life as we lived the nurses’ experiences.  For all those caring for others as either professionals or family members, this is a must read!

Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder

Osteoarthritis is a major reason that people consider shoulder replacement surgery.  So, when my business partner and geriatric care manager, Dolores T. Magid made the decision to have surgery, it was not without considerable reflection, research, and anxiety. 

According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, about 700,000 people receive knee and hip replacement surgery each year.  About 23,000 people have shoulder replacement surgery.  Osteoarthritis is the most common factor in shoulder deterioration.  The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that enables us to move our shoulder in all directions.  The joint surfaces are normally covered by smooth cartilage that allows adequate shoulder rotation.  The surrounding muscles and tendons provide stability and support.  When Osteoarthritis strikes, this system is compromised and the individual is often met with significant pain affecting their ability to live their life.

Dolores’ Story

Having tried less invasive procedures and physical therapy, Dolores never knew when she would experience the ball of her shoulder socket displace from itself even when seated at her desk.  The pain was excruciating and was something she lived with for quite awhile before making her decision.  It’s a sad state of affairs when your husband has to do your hair every day. 

Dolores’ surgery took place on October 7, 2010.  She chose The Rothman Institute which is a recognized leader in joint replacement surgery.  Back at the office, we were all holding our breath.  But, Dolores was in the driver’s seat.  She was certain about the surgeon she chose and she had completely prepared for this event.  She selected one of Elder Connections’ caregivers who stayed with her for the two nights that she was in the hospital. She reported that this made an enormous difference for her just knowing that she was not alone and with a trusted caregiver. Her pain medication kept her comfortable post surgery.  Her exercises began. And, she alerted all but her immediate family that she was off limits until she returned home.  Everything has gone flawlessly so far.

My own initial fear about her surgery has evaporated upon visiting her and seeing my friend and business partner on the healing side of things.  It taught me about the opportunities we all have to take care of our health and to take the steps toward a successful outcome.  Better Senior Care is an attainable goal!

Steps to Selecting The Joint Replacement Option  

• Understand the cause of your joint pain

Arthritis is a major cause of the problem, but it could be Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, or Post-traumatic Arthritis.  It could also be Avascular Necrosis or something else. 

• Obtain a Quality Medical Diagnosis

Seek an evaluation from a qualified Orthopedic Surgeon and get more than one opinion.

• Explore Your Treatment Options

Consider the least invasive options first.

• When All Options Are Exhausted, Consider Joint Replacement Surgery

Select a surgeon with the most experience with your specific joint problem and a hospital that performs many of these procedures.

• Preparing For Joint Replacement Surgery

Begin exercising under a doctor’s supervision

Have a complete physical and clearance from specialists familiar with your history

Have a dental examination

Stop taking specific medications (consult with your doctor about which ones)

Consider lifestyle changes – stop smoking, lose weight

Complete all lab work – x-rays, blood tests, etc.

• Evaluate Post Surgical Needs for At Home Care

Following surgery, you will require assistance with your activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing.  Make sure a family member stays with you or hire a company that can provide this home care.

• Arrange Physical Therapy and Post Operative Exercise

The key to successful surgery is the rehab following the surgery.

Caregiving and Your Wellness

I had the opportunity to participate in a presentation by The Mature Market Institute, a division of Met Life at the East Coast Society of Aging Conference. What I learned was perplexing and precipitated much thought about the care of an aging relative.

Caregiver Survey Results

•  82% Say the amount of care their aging parent or relative requires is very demanding
•  76% Agree that their loved one’s needs are overwhelming
• 56% Seem to be getting ill more frequently
• 73% Have disturbed sleep patterns
• 72% Believe their family and friends think they are getting too stressed out
• 63% Say caregiving is taking a toll on their family life
• 53% Say caregiving is taking a toll on their job
• 76% Resent (at least occasionally) having to care for this relative

Caregiver Resources

Whether balancing the requirements of a child or a senior, caring pulls us away from the other tasks in life and creates anxiety and tension.  How we manage our families, our jobs, and maintain our health can often determine how we can optimally keep all the balls up in the air.   Your solution is only a click away with the Better Senior Care Resource Guide. Resources, tips, and solutions to help you achieve better senior care.

  BY:  Beverly Bernstein Joie,  MS, CMC
  President Elder Connections

Making Senior Dreams Come True — Part 2

Late this afternoon, Annabelle and her Elder Connections entourage arrived at the Port Jefferson Health Care Center.   This isn’t your typical hotel or vacation resort, instead our senior’s travel destination is a short-term sub-acute medical care facility.   A perfect fit for providing better senior care for a traveling senior.

Bed and Meds 

In a conversation with the Health Care Center’s director, I was told that she informed the nurses that their job with Annabelle was “a bed and meds.”  Typical elder care would require an evaluation and a mandatory “in- facility” stay.

Recreating Better Senior Travel

But, Annabelle Kerins does not fit Port Jefferson’s business as usual protocol.  This woman, who is grappling with debilitating Parkinson’s disease, is creating her own life and travel agenda.   With the assistance of her Elder Connections caregivers, Annabelle enjoys dining out with friends and leading her van chauffeur to new travel spots.

Travels for Better Senior Care

The news of our senior traveling is delighting the hearts of everyone Annabelle touches — including her Geriatric Care Manager, too.  The dream is beginning to play out as planned — and I can exhale.  Does your senior have a plan? 

  BY:  Beverly Bernstein Joie, MS, CMC
  President Elder Connections

——————————————————————————————————————————.

Geriatric Care Managers often enter the scene when an elderly client and their family are facing a life crisis.  Imagine my delight when I received a call from an elder law attorney’s office acting on behalf of his client.  The request was simple — arrange for Annabelle to attend a reunion of her former co-workers in New York.

Life Lessons to Learn

Annabelle Kerins, 65 years old, is a retired entertainment journalist who worked for Newsday in Long Island, New York.  She has always been an “event junkie” and an avid world traveler.  Annabelle is vehement about not letting Parkinson’s disease get in the way of her living this dream.  A lesson taught to all of us.

Live Fully -  no matter what

My assignment was to make it possible for Annabelle to attend her reunion.  Parkinson’s disease is a wicked adversary when it comes to traveling.  As the disease advances, mobility is marginal and the need for care escalates.  Confined to a wheelchair and dependent upon others, Annabelle requires support, nursing home lodging, a wheelchair van, a driver, equipment and the love of family and friends supporting her in New York and Pennsylvania.                                                                                                                                                        ————————————-l;——————————————————————————————–.

Senior Travel Dreams become Reality                                          

Although she receives the care of others, Annabelle Kerins also contributes priceless gifts of her own.  She inspires others to look beyond physical limitations.  Parkinson’s disease does not get in the way of her determination and commitment to living her life.  This reunion became a life mission for both of us.  What dreams are you aspiring to?  Better Senior Care begins with dreams, plans and action — let us help you.

Home Care Coordinator Goes the Extra Mile for Better Senior Care

When prospective clients contact Elder Connections for the first time, Joanne Collier and Shareese Robinson are the first people prospective clients connect to on the other end of the phone line.  These women also staff our home care cases and field concerns when families feel that the caregiver provided is not a match.

Recently, Shareese spoke to one senior, she felt her dismay.  She understood that a change in care was needed and our blind client was fearful about keeping her current caregiver and equally fearful about an unknown individual.  She also knew that a phone call was not sufficient to address her concerns.

Home Care Coordinator Takes Action

Shareese knew what to do.  She identified the perfect caregiver for this special needs client.  She even arranged to transport the caregiver candidate to visit with our senior client – twenty miles away. 

Shareese sat with this woman, holding her hand and allowing her to know all about the new replacement of care — all on her own terms.  She assured the family that they could count on her to make things right. 

Home Care Coordinator Champion for Elder Care

Days later, Shareese Robinson – home care coordinator was moved to tears when a beautiful flower arrangement arrived at the office.  The flowers were sent by our senior client and her daughter.  Attached with a note — they thanked Shareese for her caring concern and that they valued how much meeting her meant to them.  Shareese will leave no stone unturned in her efforts to provide better senior care and they knew it!

Isn’t time you receive better senior care for you aging parent?  Elder Connections is ready to assist — call today!

BY  Beverly Bernstein Joie,  MS, CMC
President Elder Connections

Providing Solutions for Better Senior Care
in the Philadelphia Region