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faith matters!

10/26/2020

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As we all age, it is only normal that we begin to stock of what is most important to us in this life. For many seniors, this means an introspective look into their personal faith. Religious services, church friends and social events centered around the church may have been an integral part of their lives up to this point in their lives. As age and health issues begin to take their toll on the bodies and sometimes the minds of seniors, there is a fear that these important aspects of their life may suffer or even disappear as options for them. 

It is critically important that family members, friends and home care agencies work together to help seniors maintain whatever options for faith involvement they can for aging seniors. If seniors are unable to drive themselves to services, then others should find a way to pick them up, or arrange for their travel using either a home care agency to transport them, or special travel options like Uber or Lyft.  As a result of the COVID crisis, many churches have expanded their use of online options for worship and small group participation. Computer desktops, iPads or even a smartphone can provide a window into weekly religious activities.

Discussing religious topics with home care staff can be a tricky and sometimes sensitive area. It's important that neither staff nor client try to force any of their beliefs on the other, so that they are able to maintain a positive relationship. However, if they are able to find common ground and be encouragers for each other, then this can be a great way to support seniors.  Other ways might include using technology to play religious music, or reading devotional books or Scripture to a senior that has vision problems. 

The home care agency owners who work as members of the Oklahoma Professionals for Home Care have navigated the waters of supporting seniors regarding access and participation to their religious functions and activities. Talk it over with them and see what they are able to do! Simply click at the top of the page where it says "About Us", and then click on "Membership Directory" to see the list of our current members!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC

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weather matters...

10/19/2020

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As we move into the Fall, we see a variety of changes in the weather. The cool, crisp air begins to overtake the heat of summer, and the changes in weather can impact seniors in physical, mental and emotional ways.

Cooler weather can have a dramatic impact on the physical joints of people struggling with joint pain and arthritis. Moreover, the colder temps bring with them a higher incidence of the flu and pneumonia, as well as an increased concern over COVID-19. One benefit of colder weather is that the first freeze usually kills off many plant spores that are allergens, including things like ragweed.

When colder weather hits, many times it brings with it weather conditions that have a potentially negative impact on seniors. Snow, sleet and ice are dangerous, even life threatening conditions for many seniors. Both walking and driving become more dangerous for the elderly during these adverse health conditions. This may increase their need for assistance from family, friends and/or home care agencies to assist them during these times.

Two other issues related to the weather have adverse affects on the mental and emotional state of seniors. Cloudy, overcast days for extended periods of time can have a depressive effect on many seniors. It's important that they have regular contact with other people during dismal weather, to keep the attitudes and emotions on a positive keel. Beyond that, inclement weather may also keep many seniors "home bound" for safety reasons. Again, if this happens over a long time frame, it would be beneficial to have caregivers check in on them on a regular basis.

Finally, remember that colder weather brings the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although these are typically considered "family times" or celebrations, for many seniors these can be discouraging or depressing times. This is especially true if they are a widow or widower, and they have lost a spouse in the last couple of years. Pay special attention to all of widowed or single seniors during these times.

For families who are long distance caregivers for elderly loved ones, a perfect solution is to enlist the aid of a home care agency, like those  who are members of the Oklahoma Professionals for Home Care! You can find a list of these agencies by clicking on the "About Us" tab at the top of the page, and selecting "Membership Directory"! These agencies have skilled and trained staff who are sensitive to the needs of seniors during this season! Give them a call to find out how they could help you!
Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC



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MUSIC MATTERS!

10/5/2020

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As our loved ones age, the sands of time take a toll on so many aspects of their lives. Dementia and Alzheimer's impact 1 out of 3 senior citizens. Serious diseases like cancer and heart disease can bring great difficulties to their health and quality of life. As was mentioned in a previous article, challenges with their hearing and inner ear can bring about issues not only with balance, but the ability to communicate effectively and enjoy life.

One practice families should consider is the use of music to improve the quality of life of their beloved senior family member. Music has a calming, relaxing impact on our attitudes and even on our physiology. The use of familiar or sentimental music with Alzheimer's or dementia patients can calm their behavior and their temperaments. Beyond that, many times the use of music in these situation can bring those individuals back to a point where they can communicate more clearly than they normally do.

Music can be provided through a variety of methods. Here are a few suggestions:
  1. Cable Music Channels- Most cable providers have a selection of "music only" channels as a part of their basic programming.
  2. "Alexa, play big band music!"- Families with wireless access in their home might consider the use of an "Alexa" or other similar device.
  3. Get on the Device- Using a computer, tablet or even smartphone can provide access to acceptable music as well.
  4. YouTube Famous- Families who are familiar with YouTube can set up playlists of music videos for their loved one to access via the computer, tablet or smartphone
  5. Music Streaming Platforms- Pandora, Amazon Music, Spotify and iTunes are all great services to quality music.

Start out slow, and understand that your loved one may have challenges with the complexities or unfamiliarity of technology. You may need to help them, educate and then show them multiple times on how to access a variety of music options. In the end, it will be worth it!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC

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