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Experts agree that regular oral hygiene in seniors is one of the most important health aspects. Unfortunately, many elderly people do not take care of their teeth and gums as they should, which can lead to a host of problems. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some ways caregivers can promote oral hygiene in senior care. 

Let’s discuss why it’s important to visit the dentist in old age and what are the consequences of poor oral hygiene. Whether you’re looking to hire professional home care in West Los Angeles, or caring of your loved one yourself, keep reading to learn more!

What is oral hygiene in aged care?

When it comes to regular oral hygiene, there’s no big difference between age groups. This usually involves the following:  

• Brushing teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste 
• Flossing every day 
• Seeing the dentist regularly (at least once every six months) 

However, there are some points that are unique for dental and oral hygiene in seniors, so caregivers should keep them in mind: 

• There may be a need for more than two brushings per day, due to receding gum tissue exposed root canals, or similar issues. 
• Some seniors experience difficulties with brushing teeth properly due to arthritis or poor vision. In these cases, it is important for caregivers to assist in brushing teeth correctly at least twice a day. 
• Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to increased tooth decay. It is important to discuss any medications with the elderly person’s dentist to see if there are ways to combat this side effect. 
• Memory loss is another factor that can cause complications, especially if regular brushing and flossing isn’t a part of a strong routine. 
• Poor nutrition, smoking, and other unhealthy habits can further hinder dental health
• Old crowns, fillings, or dental implants need to be checked and replaced after a while
• It is important for caregivers to take seniors to the dentist regularly, as many dental problems can be easily treated if caught early.

Why is oral hygiene important in the elderly?

It goes without saying that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for seniors. Studies have shown that poor oral health is directly and indirectly linked to a variety of problems, including:

• dental cavities
• gum disease
• cardiovascular issues
• stroke
• some types of cancer
• diabetes
• osteoporosis
• respiratory infections
• rheumatoid arthritis

Did you know that tooth decay and gum disease are the two most common chronic diseases in seniors? In fact, almost 90% of all adults over the age of 65 have had some form of tooth decay. This is why it’s so important for caregivers to promote oral hygiene in senior care.

Now, how can you promote dental and oral health to your elderly patient or loved one? Here are a couple of ideas that caregivers can implement: 

• Develop strong routines that involve oral hygiene as a part of daily grooming
• Encourage the elderly person to brush their teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and at night. If they are having difficulty brushing properly due to impaired movement, offer to help them. 
• Make sure they are using fluoride-based toothpaste. 
• Help them floss their teeth every day. 
• Encourage them to eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water. 
• Talk to their dentist or doctor about ways to combat side effects of some medication that could cause dry mouth, or interfere with substances used in the treatment. 

How often should seniors have their teeth cleaned?

The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year, and this applies to people of all ages. This allows for tartar removal and cleaning to prevent complications. However, some seniors may require more visits than that, especially if they are experiencing severe pain, chronic discomfort, or exhibiting any other indications that would necessitate an emergency dental visit.

As a caregiver, you shouldn’t ignore signs that your senior is in pain. You may also need to encourage them to talk about their current problem. If your senior has hearing loss or impairment, you’ll need to set up an appointment for them. Also, your duty will be to drive them to the dentist’s office.

Who can we count on for qualified home care in West Los Angeles and beyond? 

Whether your elderly loved ones are living in Little Ethiopia or anywhere else in West LA, you can rely on A Better Way in Home Care. We have ample experience with matching the most reliable and qualified Caregivers with local families. The experts we work with can assist with a number of daily tasks, and help your loved one lead a healthy, pleasant, and fulfilling life while aging in place. 

With their help, you’ll also save precious time and energy for other family and career commitments. Feel free to contact us today to discuss your needs and requirements!

Daily routines can seem like something we take for granted, but they play an indispensable role in old age. Keeping a healthy everyday pace and taking care about how they look and dress is something that some seniors tend to neglect, which indicates a need for a helping hand. If not treated properly, this can soon become a hurdle for their family members and cause the elderly to feel like a burden. How can you help them take care of themselves and lead a satisfying life?

Fortunately, professionals who provide dedicated homecare across West Los Angeles can give you straightforward answers. If you wish to learn some of their most useful tips for aiding the elderly, continue reading!

Why is grooming important for elderly?

In the context of assisted living, taking care of grooming and dress is equally important as taking regular medication. Feelings of social isolation are prevalent among elderly people. It can lead to loss of self-esteem, social withdrawal, and self-neglect, so it’s important to remind them that they still have a role to play. 

One of the most common issues that seniors face is a lack of interest in personal grooming and taking care of their appearance. This can be caused by several factors, including poor vision, dementia, arthritis, or depression. While it may not seem like a big deal at first, soon enough it will start to take a toll on their mental well-being and physical health. It should be addressed from the very start to prevent further negative consequences. 

How do you groom an elderly patient?

The elderly may need assistance with a variety of daily grooming tasks, such as: 

• Washing their face and hands
• Brushing their teeth and other oral hygiene duties
• Combing their hair
• Shaving
• Bathing
• Applying makeup
• Polishing nails
• Pedicure
• Dressing and undressing

Some of these tasks may require the help of a caregiver or family member, while others can be done with the aid of special products and equipment designed for seniors who age in place. For example:

• electric toothbrushes with extra-soft bristles and specialized flossers
• long-handled bathing sponges that make it easier to reach all parts of the body
• shower seats and benches
• bath lifts
• raised toilet seats
• portable commodes and vanity tables

There are a few things that you can do to encourage your loved ones to stay looking their best, even as they age: 

1. Include plenty of mirrors in their home. This will give them the opportunity to check themselves regularly and improve self-care and awareness of their look. 
2. Make grooming a fun and positive experience by chatting or playing music while you help them with tasks such as shaving, applying makeup, or doing their hair.
3. Don’t be afraid to hire professional in-home care services if you need an extra set of hands.

How do you help an elderly patient dress? 

Keep in mind that dressing will involve a whole new set of responsibilities and potential challenges to the elderly. Dressing is challenging for the elderly who face issues with movement due to chronic pain or disability. For example, those who are wheelchair-bound will need help getting in and out of clothes, while those with dementia or motor impairment may forget how to dress altogether.

The best way to help an elderly patient dress is to take your time and be patient. Of course, this isn’t always easy. For instance, if you need to encourage them to use hearing aids, you’ll probably face some resistance with other tasks. 

Help them choose clothing that is both comfortable and stylish, and make sure that all items are easy to put on and take off. If possible, try to involve them in the process as much as possible so that they can still feel like they have some control over their appearance.

Where can I find more information about companies that provide expert homecare in West Los Angeles?

Taking care of your elderly loved ones is an important responsibility that should not be taken lightly. A well-groomed elderly person will feel more confident and have a better outlook on life. However, if you’re overwhelmed with everyday responsibilities, you don’t want to be left feeling like you’re neglecting your loved one. If you’re living in Rancho Park or anywhere else in West Los Angeles area, reach out to A Better Way in Home Care. We’ll gladly connect you to someone who’d be eager to assist with everyday tasks. With our help, your senior relatives can continue looking and feeling their best – no matter what age they are! Call us today and let us match you with the best Caregiver.

When it comes to home care for the elderly, one of the most important activities that caregivers can encourage is playing games. Boardgames, card games, and even video games can help keep elderly adults engaged and mentally stimulated. This is not only fun for them, but also has a number of health benefits that can improve their overall quality of life. 

Let’s explore some of the reasons why play is so beneficial for seniors, and shed light on examples of good games that caregivers can use to keep the elderly entertained. Whether you’ve already found someone in Encino that provides professional home care, or you’re catering to the needs of your loved one yourself, read on!

Do the elderly play games?

Now, it’s obvious that seniors do play games, but should they, and why? Now, you’re probably familiar with an image of senior patients playing board games and puzzles in nursing homes. There are a number of reasons behind this, and it’s not only to make the time pass.  

Someone said that the secret of wisdom is to carry the spirit of the child into old age. This involves keeping the level of enthusiasm high and making sure that there’s something enjoyable to look forward to each day. This is why any well-designed elderly care plan should include mentally stimulating activities, and games are a perfect example. 

Are board games good for the elderly?

It’s no secret that playtime and hobbies are a great way to keep the mind engaged, at any age. This is especially important in the elderly, who can face cognitive decline as time goes by. There’s also a range of other advantages that it brings: 

• Games promote mental fitness. Playing games can help improve memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
• Games stimulate socialization. Games serve a great role in enriching the everyday routine. This is important for elderly adults who may not have many opportunities to interact with people their own age. 
• Games help ward off depression and anxiety. They don’t only serve as distractions from every day worries. Seniors can establish certain games as weekly or daily rituals, which promote resilience to stress, anxiety, and depression. 
• Games promote a higher quality of life. Staying mentally sharp, optimistic, and curious into old age makes the elderly more motivated and eager to put their effort into spending their days in a fulfilling manner.  

What are some good games for seniors? 

There are a number of different types of board games that are perfect for seniors. Here are some examples:

• Word and logic puzzles like Scrabble, Sudoku or Jenga 
• Card games such as bridge, poker, or gin rummy 
• Strategy games such as chess, checkers, or backgammon 
• Trivia games like Jeopardy! or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? 
• Classic board games like Monopoly, Candyland, or Clue 

Can seniors benefit from playing video games? 

Although it might seem a bit funny at first, there’s nothing wrong with seeing your elderly loved one playing their favorite game on a PC, console, iPad, or another device. After all, computer games have been there for over four decades, so it’s not really something we should associate with the young population exclusively. 

Of course, spending too much time in front of the screen isn’t good for anyone, but a moderate amount of brain-stimulating games can do wonders. Combine that with healthy physical exercise, and you’ll have a packed daily schedule that will keep you active. Elderly people enjoy playing:

• Logic games like Portal or The Witness 
• Adventure games like Uncharted or Tomb Raider 
• Strategy games like Civilization or Age of Empires 
• Casino games like blackjack, poker, and roulette 

Our aging loved one in Encino, CA needs reliable home care. Who can we call? 

It’s clear that you want only the best for your elderly loved one, so imagine having someone to accompany them on relaxing walks to Los Encino State Historic Park. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far to find an ideal match!

A Better Way in Home Care is happy to assist by connecting you with the most reliable, motivated, and qualified Caregivers in your vicinity. They will gladly assist your loved one with everyday tasks, including personal hygiene and dressing, meal preparation, taking medication watering plants, doing light housework, helping with their beloved pets, and driving them to doctor’s appointments. 

Give us a call today to find out more about our services and our Caregivers!

When your elderly relative in Encino is in need of professional homecare, what you need is to have a clear and comprehensive plan. This is necessary for a number of reasons, which involve preserving the sense of autonomy in the elderly, their wellbeing, and their active social role. This can be achieved when following professional caregiver guidelines. 

To learn more about this and bring your seniors the quality of life they deserve, keep reading!

Why is a care plan for the elderly important? 

Writing a detailed care plan for your elderly relative can take some time but it will be well worth it. It has a number of advantages to you and the elderly: 

• you’ll be better prepared when making decisions regarding your loved one’s needs
• you’ll have everything at hand to answer questions from medical staff, other professionals, and family members
• it ensures everyone involved knows what to expect which prevents confusion

The more details, the easier planning becomes whether this means clarifying specific tasks, providing detailed timetables, or communicating expectations on certain topics, such as care hours, frequency, etc.

How to create a comprehensive care plan for the elderly?

When creating a care plan for elderly loved ones in a non-medical context, there are several key points to keep in mind. Here are seven essentials:

1. Goals and objectives 

Establishing clear goals and objectives is essential. What do you hope to accomplish with the care plan? Are there specific tasks or activities that need to be carried out on a daily basis? What medical conditions require treatment and monitoring? Defining your goals will help you create a more effective plan.

2. Considering limits and strengths

Caregivers should have a good understanding of their elderly loved one’s physical capabilities and limitations. This includes knowing how much assistance is needed for activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. It’s also important to be aware of any potential health risks, such as falls or medication interactions.

3. Tailored plan 

A care plan should be tailored to the individual, taking into account their unique personality, preferences, and lifestyle. For example, some elderly people prefer to live independently as long as possible, while others may need more assistance and supervision. Make sure to take their personal preferences into account. For example, you can consider their pets when making the plan.

4. Daily activities

The care plan should include a schedule of daily activities and tasks that need to be completed. This will help ensure that all important duties are taken care of on a regular basis. This should include a list of essential activities, as well as means to socialize and enrich their everyday life. For example, it can include playing board games with family members or friends.

5. Track changes

Caregivers should keep track of any changes in the elderly loved one’s condition or routine so that they can make necessary adjustments to the plan as needed. This includes watching for signs of illness or cognitive decline and updating the setting regularly. You should be in close contact with their doctor, to make sure that they are following up as well. 

6. Communication is key

The care plan should be shared with all involved parties, including family members, healthcare providers, and any other caregivers. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and can work together to provide the best possible care for elderly loved ones.

7. Regular updates

Finally, it’s important to review and update the plan regularly, as conditions may change over time. The goal is to create a document that is reflective of current needs and provides the most effective level of care possible.

Creating a comprehensive care plan for elderly loved ones can seem daunting at first, but following these seven steps will help get you started on the right foot. With careful planning and teamwork, your seniors will enjoy a safe, healthy, and rewarding life.

Where in Encino can I book reliable homecare for my elderly relative? 

When you need to hire someone who has the experience, positive track record, and a client-focused attitude to cater to the needs of your aging family member, you don’t want to make shortcuts. Fortunately, for residents of Encino, it’s not so difficult!

Here at A Better Way in Home Care, we boast a team of Caregivers that can assist in a number of ways, from everyday household tasks, personal hygiene, and grooming, to taking your relatives to see their doctor at Encino Hospital Medical Center, or elsewhere in LA. 

For peace of mind, and enhanced quality of life, give us a call today, and we’ll make sure to find a perfect match!

Most people are aware that aging is a natural process, but not everyone understands the challenges that come with it. Loneliness and isolation are major problems for elderly people. They may need to deal with the loss of loved ones and social circles, and feel disconnected from society as they age. This is why it’s so important to give them opportunities to engage in meaningful activities. 

Instead of sending them to isolated nursery homes, many families consider hiring professional home care. For example, residents of Encino book such services to cater to the needs of their loved ones on a daily basis. Expert caregivers know the value of enrichment activities and the benefits they bring to the lives of their clients. 

Read on to find out more about this topic. 

What are life enrichment programs? 

Life enrichment programs are designed to improve the overall quality of life. These can be held in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, assisted living facilities, and in-home treatments. They aim to support and improve social, physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. In most cases, these activities allow seniors to engage with others and enjoy certain benefits that they would not have access to otherwise. These include

• Fostering an active lifestyle 
• Stronger social relationships
• Enhanced cognitive health

What types of enrichment programs are there? 

There are many life enrichment programs that can be beneficial for elderly people. Some of the most common examples include: 

Socialization programs

Social isolation is one of the key factors that lead to a decrease in the quality of life for seniors. Socialization programs provide a way for them to meet other people and interact in a positive setting. 

This can be done through group activities, such as meet-ups, community events, or by providing opportunities for socializing with others online. Seniors can participate in a variety of games, including board games, which can have a huge positive impact on their cognitive health. 

Artistic expression programs

Engaging in artistic expression has been shown to have a variety of benefits for seniors, such as improving moods, reducing stress levels, and providing an outlet for creativity. Artistic expression programs can take many different forms, such as painting classes, pottery workshops, or choir rehearsals.

Excitement and stimulation programs

Living a sedentary lifestyle can lead to boredom and a lack of excitement in elderly people’s lives. These programs provide opportunities for seniors to be active and engaged, which can improve their moods and overall wellbeing. These activities can include going on field trips, learning new skills, or participating in social events.

How to enrich the life of an elderly person? 

As a family member or an in-house caregiver, you can try out several things to enrich your seniors’ life. You should offer access to a variety of activities. For instance:

1. Accompany them on the trips, or invite friends over for dinner so they don’t get lonesome at home! It is important to encourage seniors to be active members of society who engage with their loved ones and participate in events such as birthdays and weddings. Also, they can pay visits to local senior homes and interact with their peers.
2. Encourage creativity through classes, workshops, and courses every month. This could help them come out from their shell since it allows them to use imagination. Not only is this fun and exciting, but it can also be therapeutic.
3. Promote lifelong learning by giving access to the internet, books, or magazines on different topics. This helps keep their minds active while they are not working; in fact, studies have shown that learning new things could help delay memory decline.
4. Encourage physical activity even if your elderly person is reluctant to try it out at first. It’s important for them to get up and about every day, especially if they’re feeling down. Physical activity releases endorphins which improve moods and promote a sense of well-being. Take them to Los Encinos State Historic Park to enjoy the day in the sun 
5. Help them with their pets and plants.  This may seem like a small thing, but it can go a long way in improving their overall moods. Pets are good companions for the elderly, as they can provide feelings of acceptance and affection. Also, taking care of their garden, house plants, and pets, gives them a sense of purpose.
6. Create daily routines for them to follow so they know what’s expected of them each day. These planned routines should promote feelings of autonomy, not something that is imposed upon them.  This can include everything from 

There you have it – five easy ways to enrich the lives of elderly people! What will you do today to make your loved ones happy?

Where can I find professional home care in Encino?

Seniors and their families in Encino need not worry! Here at A Better Way in Home Care, we can match you with empathetic, experienced, and trustworthy Caregivers. With their attention to detail, resourcefulness, and resilience, you can be sure that the day of your elderly relative will be truly rewarding and full of various activities. 

Our Caregivers can assist with a number of everyday tasks, from getting dressed, taking medication, watering plants, doing light housekeeping tasks, driving them to their medical appointments, and creating and following ongoing care plans. 

Contact us today to reap the many benefits of our services!

As the world becomes more and more technologically advanced, it’s become easier for many people to feel estranged. This is especially true for the elderly, who often live in an entirely different world from those around them. 

As such, emotional support has become an important part of their well-being. Let’s explore some ways to provide emotional support to seniors. This can be useful to you, whether you work in home care in Studio City or elsewhere, or wish to be of greater help to your aging relatives.  

What are the emotional needs of an elderly person?

Regardless of age, we all want to have a sense of control of our lives. The lack of control is what makes elderly people more vulnerable. They often feel lonely, depressed, and abandoned. They struggle with the following three basic emotional needs: 

• Safety and security. Everyday life of elderly becomes full of risks and fears. They become afraid of falling, going out, walking, illness. 
• Connection. They can lose touch with their loved ones, their interests, and what’s going on in the world, and feel like nothing matters. This can lead to boredom and depression.
• Autonomy. The fact that they would need to rely on someone else for even the basic daily errands can affect their sense of independence. 

Living in a world of fear, where nothing makes much sense, and where you don’t have much control over your life, isn’t a good place to be. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate the suffering and make things better. 

Why is emotional support important for the elderly?

With appropriate emotional support, everything else becomes easier. Seniors that have someone to aid them with compassion, receive the following advantages: 

• Improved confidence and self-esteem. 
• Sense of belonging 
• Greater resilience to stress
• Improved overall health and well-being, even when dealing with physical or mental impairment

The person who provides emotional support can become an important cornerstone that can turn things for the better. They can restore the feeling of companionship and make the elderly feel like they still have a role to play.

How can we care for the elderly emotional needs?

Experienced caregivers know the right approach to cater to the emotional needs of the elderly. Follow these tips in order to provide adequate support in times of need: 

1. Acceptance and reassurance

Be a good, active, and engaged listener. This means that you should take their feedback seriously and implement changes to make their environment less stressful. Dispel their worries by providing adequate equipment. For instance, you can install safety equipment or make their car rides more comfortable. Most importantly, create realistic plans to make their life easier.

2. Show compassion

Accept negative and positive emotions with open arms and show that you care. The fact that you’re there for them is of immense value, as they will know that their point of view is acknowledged. 

3. Promote recreational activities

Make sure that your senior has a plan for each day, and activities to look forward to. For instance, they can take a stroll in the park, visit a local library, engage in light exercise, or visit a local resort. This will bring back a part of their confidence and self-esteem and benefit their physical health. 

4. Help them connect

Seniors can still feel like a useful part of their family and neighborhood if you help them participate. For instance, you can encourage them to volunteer at a local event in Studio City and the vicinity, or take them to family gatherings where they can reconnect with their loved ones. Encourage them to create new memories with their relatives and friends. 

Who offers professional home care in Studio City, CA, and beyond? 

When your elderly relatives need adequate support in everyday functioning, you shouldn’t cut corners. Of course, nursery homes have been a traditional option, but in-home assistance has many advantages. When you need versed professionals that cater to all needs, A Better Way in Home Care is at your fingertips. 

You can count on us to provide help with day-to-day activities that preserve the quality of life and benefit the health of your aging loved ones. Our caregivers will also help with some minor housekeeping tasks, water the plants, feed the pets, and drive your elderly to doctor appointments, or anywhere else in Los Angeles, if necessary. 

Call us today to see what we can offer and we’ll happily match you with the best caregiver!

Old age comes with many challenges, both physical and emotional. While many families resort to sending their elderly to a nursing home. However, this isn’t necessarily the best option, as it comes with risks of isolation, loss of autonomy, and disease. 

On the contrary, there are many benefits of aging in place, which can restore and keep your elderly relatives feeling independent for a longer time. You might consider hiring reliable homecare in Studio City and the vicinity. Read on to learn how to handle low self-esteem in the elderly and how to empower them. 

What causes low self-esteem in elderly people?

There is often a feeling of isolation and abandonment among the elderly, as well as a notion of not being useful anymore. You no longer have a role to play and might feel like a burden.  One reason why seniors have low self-esteem lies in unfulfilled emotional needs, which have to be addressed properly. 

Another reason is a lack of control or loss of competence. This is in part due to physiological changes, but most importantly, due to a change of family dynamic. Bereavement, existential crisis, loss of connection, all contribute to diminishing self-esteem. 

How do you build confidence in the elderly?

Even with professional assistance for your elderly loved ones, they can still struggle with self-esteem and lack of confidence. This is why an experienced and compassionate caregiver should do the following:

• Encourage social connections
• Fight negative stereotypes about aging or disability
• Keep them updated on the news and events in the world
• Make them feel like an active participant in the conversation
• Ask for their advice and guidance
• Show compassion and understanding

Preserving the notion of being confident in one’s mental and physical ability. This encourages the feeling of inner strength, as they are encouraged to face potential challenges with a greater sense of optimism. 

How can we help the elderly maintain independence?

By applying the above tips, you may see a boost in confidence in your elderly relatives. However, maintaining and encouraging independence in seniors requires that you make some changes in their everyday routine and environment. Here are five tips on how to achieve this: 

1. Safety first 

This primarily means making their immediate surroundings more accessible. This involves preventing falls and accidents around the house. Also, remove unnecessary physical boundaries and mind to cover rigid corners. Consider installing handles in the bathroom and bedroom, and other safety equipment. Finally, you can make their access to the car more comfortable and safe.

2. Involvement in everyday activities

Seniors have a say in their day-to-day decisions. Don’t push them into doing something they would rather skip or postpone for another day. This will preserve their sense of autonomy on a deeper level. It’s vital for them to feel like an active participant in their life, not just a spectator.  

3. Encourage physical activity 

Mild exercise should become a daily routine, as it brings many benefits. Of course, the routine needs to be adjusted to the general health condition and follow the safety guidelines. This can be a walk, or stretching, or mild aerobic activity. 

4. Keep the mind stimulated

To combat the risk of cognitive impairment and memory loss, the best option is to keep the mind occupied. This can mean a lot of things: puzzle solving, playing chess, cards, or dominoes, reading books, or learning a new language. This helps the brain stay active and make new connections, and can cause better general health status and longer life expectancy.  

5. Support their social life

Make sure that they don’t skip family gatherings or get-togethers with friends. Also, don’t forget to celebrate important milestones. Make sure they attend or host birthday parties, if possible. Go to meetings, visit public and community events. All of this can greatly enrich the everyday life of seniors. 

Where can I hire professional homecare in Studio City, CA?

Whether your senior relatives live in Studio City or anywhere else along Ventura Freeway, here at A Better Way in Home Care, we have you covered. We can refer you to experienced caregivers who will be able to provide assistance in day-to-day functioning. The assistance can include helping your senior relatives dress, bathe, prepare a meal, drive them safely to the doctor or other appointments, minor housekeeping tasks, taking care of pets and plants, and so on. 

Contact us today to talk about what your needs are so that we can refer the perfect Caregiver!

Old age poses a challenge not only for the individual, but also their family. One good example is transportation. It can be fairly frustrating for an adult to be unable to drive a car. They would have to rely on other family members or public transport. 

The problem is that very few people have enough time these days to cater to the needs of their aging loved ones. For this reason, many families look for reliable homecare, whether they live in Studio City or elsewhere in Los Angeles. 

There are some ways that you can make their life easier. For example, you should learn the right technique on how to transfer them to the backseat of your car, or how to make their ride more enjoyable. Keep on reading to learn how.

How can I help the elderly get in the car?

Many seniors have a problem with mobility or coordination, which takes away a significant part of their independence. This is the primary reason why they’ll need support when entering a vehicle. Luckily, there’s a way in which you can safely transfer them from a wheelchair, walker or other mobility aid to the car seat. 

Follow these steps to make this transition as painless as possible: 

• Check around the car. Make sure that the surrounding area is safe.
• Wear proper footwear. Your shoes should have a firm grip to the ground.
• Position your body correctly. Keep your feet separated at shoulder width.
• Be careful with the upper half of your body. Stand upright, holding the torso straight.
• Move at your hips and knees. Lean toward your client, using your knees and hips to lift them
• Don’t hurt your hands or your back. During the transfer, carry the better part of the weight with your forearms
• For additional safety, use various car aids, for example: car cane standing accessories, step stools, transfer boards, seat belt reacher handles, holders and extenders, etc. 

When exiting the car, use the same body position. Make sure to gently lean their head forward, to prevent them from hitting the door frame. Make a short standing pause, just to check that you’re both balanced and then continue lifting them. 

How do you make a long car ride comfortable for seniors?

Taking a ride to another city or to a nearby resort can be quite beneficial for your elderly relative. However, getting there can be tedious and stressful. So you should try to make it pleasurable, and minimize potential inconveniences. 

1. First things first, check the health status of your senior passenger before taking a longer ride. You should take all precaution measures and make sure that you bring all the necessary medication.
2. Make sure that you bring enough food and water, plan breaks to have a meal and take medication. Have a supply of healthy snacks, just in case that you get stuck in traffic. 
3. Take care about all safety precaution measures. Always check and adjust the seat belt. Avoid sitting them next to you, as air-bags can pose a hazard, so it’s better to place them on the back seat. 
4. Obtain a handicapped permit for the car if your elderly passenger has limited mobility. This will save you a lot of time and stress, while you look for a designated parking space. 
5. Consider the comfort itself. Many seniors need some additional back support, so you should adjust the car seat and provide additional cushions if necessary. In addition, bring a blanket, in case that your senior will need some rest. 
6. Don’t forget to consider entertainment. People of all ages deserve to have some fun and relax while they travel. Play a list of their favorite music, or their preferred radio station, or an interesting podcast. 

Where can I find dependable homecare in Studio City and surrounding communities? 

Here at A Better Way in Home Care, we have a team of skilled and trustworthy caregivers with the necessary expertise and experience to help out your elderly relatives in Studio City and beyond. They will act in the best interest of your loved ones by helping them run everyday errands, prepare their meals, drive them to doctor’s, tend to their emotional and social needs, and many more. Our goal is to make your senior relatives feel respected and empowered. 

With more time at your hands, seize the opportunity to have a family get-together in the lovely nature of Santa Monica Mountains or elsewhere in California. With the right assistance, your elderly ones will enjoy your family excursion as well. 

To check all the advantages we can bring to your household, reach out to us today!

Over the last decades, life expectancy in the US, as well as in other parts of the world, has gone up significantly. As a result, there’s an increasing demand for professionals in senior care. This presents an excellent career opportunity for many, as well as a means to assist families and improve the quality of life of their senior relatives. 

However, to become an in-house caregiver you need to fulfill certain standards. This career path isn’t for everyone, so you should tread lightly. Additionally, if you are looking for professional home care for your loved one around Studio City, read on to learn how to recognize the best. 

What makes a good caregiver for the elderly?

Licenses or certificates proving you have attended and passed relevant courses are great, but they’re not necessarily sufficient. Anyone who intends to become a successful in-home caregiver for seniors, should exhibit the following qualities: 

• Positive demeanor
• Empathy
• Patience
• Reliability

A caregiver needs to act positively, interact with clients sincerely, clearly, and with a genuine intention to alleviate their stress. Also, you should consider their perspective, tune in and provide necessary emotional support. Make sure you respect their time and pick the right pace.

Most importantly, you should be someone they can count on. Be punctual with your appointments from the very beginning, remain consistent in your assistance, and you’ll create an atmosphere of trust. 

What are the skills needed to be a senior living caregiver?

Apart from favorable personal qualities, competent caregivers need a set of skills to assist their clients appropriately. Some of these skills can be polished in practice, while others require first-hand experience. Let’s consider the most important ones. 

1. Interpersonal skills

First of all, you need to be an attentive communicator: this involves tact, active listening, and asking the right questions, when necessary. In addition, make sure you follow this advice: 

• Speak clearly and loud enough
• Sit face to face and maintain eye contact
• Focus on one topic at a time
• Allow your client enough time, don’t rush them
• Give them the opportunity to ask questions
• Try to summarize what you have talked about

2. Physical strength & fitness

You would need to be strong enough to assist the elderly and accomplish a number of chores. For example, you’ll need to help them out of bed, go to the bathroom, help them get into the car from the wheelchair etc. This requires that you are in good physical health as well, and that you can do all of this without hurting yourself. 

3. Problem-solving skills

Sometimes, you need to approach issues creatively and with some out-of-the-box thinking. While you might take some things for granted, your elderly client could have difficulties with even the basic needs you wouldn’t otherwise anticipate. 

Also, you need a keen eye for detail in order to identify issues on time. See these problems not as obstacles, but opportunities to improve the well-being of your clients. 

4. Flexibility

Having a flexible mindset is vital to catering to the unique needs of any elderly patient. While there are some universal basic needs, remember that each individual is different, so combine patience with flexibility. By adjusting to the specific requirements, you’ll provide a sense of companionship and make this experience worthwhile. 

5. Organization 

Caregivers should be skilled in organizing the space in such a way that allows them to quickly prepare meals for their clients, find their medication, help them get dressed, etc. Also, a well-organized professional will have a list of contacts, and will be able to react readily in case of emergency.  

6. Time management

Good time management includes efficient multitasking, setting priorities, and handling a varying schedule. This skill allows you to maintain a healthy daily routine for your client, run their day-to-day errands, avoid missing doctor’s appointments, and reduce stress that comes with it. 

7. Initiative

If problems occur, you’ll not wait for instructions, but you’ll proactively take action. For example check if there are some parts of the house that need repairs, or if there are some light gardening tasks you can help with, water the plants etc. Avoid being too confrontational, as you still want to keep your elderly clients feeling independent. 

Who offers reliable home care across Studio City and neighboring communities? 

A Better Way in Home Care is the leader among non-medical assistance providers in Studio City. Our goal is to make a perfect match between a caregiver and your elderly relative. Whether you’re located near the CBS Studio Center or anywhere else in the vicinity, you can count on us. 

Our professionals can assist your elderly with everyday tasks, such as meal preparation, bathing, grooming, grocery shopping, etc. What’s more, if you’re seeking a career in the field and you have relevant experience, you can apply online and we’ll gladly provide necessary guidance. 

To check all the benefits and improve the quality of life of your loved ones, call us today!