Caring for an older adult with depression
Summary Depression is the mental health problem older adults are most likely to develop, and their chances of experiencing depression go up as they get older. This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of depression in older adults. It then describes actions a caregiver can take to supplement the primary treatment. Depression in older […]
Assisted living facilities
Summary Assisted living facilities are residences for older adults who are still active but need help with some activities of daily living. This article explains what assisted living facilities offer, the differences between them and skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes), and when a person should consider moving into an assisted living facility. It then lists […]
What to do if elder fraud occurs
Summary Elder fraud can be devastating both financially and emotionally. Recovery may take some time, but there are ways to help speed up the reporting and money recovery process. This article will help you navigate next steps after an older person has fallen victim to a scam or fraud. Don’t Panic! Elder fraud can be […]
Getting out of debt
Summary With fixed incomes and limited retirement savings, many older adults fall gradually into debt or start out retirement in debt. This article offers strategies and tips for digging out of debt and staying out, including contacting a credit counselor, repairing bad credit, downsizing, consolidating, refinancing, negotiating medical debts, and, in a last-case scenario, filing for […]
Manage providers and therapies
Summary Caregivers can feel overwhelmed by the many different medical professionals, health care providers, and therapies involved with the person receiving care. This article offers strategies for managing this aspect of caregiving. Know the providers and therapies Caregivers can feel overwhelmed by the many different medical professionals, health care providers, and therapies involved with the […]
Stretching your money
Summary Many older adults are on a fixed income after retirement. As the economy fluctuates and living costs change, the value of stretching a dollar becomes apparent. This article offers tips for caregivers to make sure the person they are caring for is making the most out of their budget and spending wisely. Review the […]
Having the elder fraud talk
Summary As people age, their ability to spot fraud and exploitation may suffer. Since money management can be a sensitive topic for discussion, approaching the conversation about preventing fraud with care and sensitivity is ideal. This article offers tips for discussing elder fraud with the older people in your life. Be open and respectful As […]
Overview of home health assistance
Summary Hiring in-home help can give caregivers a much-needed break from their duties. This article offers basic tips on choosing a home health attendant and then describes the different kinds of in-home assistance available. Choosing a home health attendant Hiring in-home help can give caregivers a much-needed break from their duties. Before looking for in-home […]
Keep track of medical records
Summary Well-organized medical records help caregivers, doctors, and other health care providers give the best care to people. This article explains why keeping track of medical records is important and offers steps to take to carry this out. Why keep track of medical records? Well-organized medical records help caregivers, doctors, and other health care providers […]
Create a care plan
Summary A care plan is an essential caregiver’s tool that details a person’s care needs, organizes a caregiving team, and assigns the caregiving responsibilities. This article describes the typical components of a care plan and suggests a process for creating one. Care plan elements A care plan is an essential caregiver’s tool that outlines a […]
