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Committed and Caring

"I want to thank you most sincerely for the aid you provided during my beloved wife's recent illness. Your caregivers are excellent. They were caring, efficient and devoted. We will always keep you in mind."
- Aunt Ann's Client

"Thank you so much for all your help and support. It was such a consolation to have your help. Your caregivers were so kind to me. I am grateful for Aunt Ann's."
-Aunt Ann's Client

"...I quickly learned we were in good hands with Aunt Ann's. Your caregivers and office staff were professional, attentive and compassionate. Thank you."
-Aunt Ann's Client

Services


Associations

Gilbert Guide
[ Gilbert Guide ]


National Private Duty Association
[ National Private
Duty Association
]


Aunt Ann's Agency - 50 Years Staffing Homes
A Tradition Of Caring Since 1958 

Resources

  Resources Index:
 September 2010 - A Primer on Home Care (new!)
 August 2010 - Technology to Enhance Independence at Home
 July 2010 - Warning Signs That Care at Home May Be Needed
 June 2010 - Making the Home Safer for Aging in Place
 May 2010 - Age Related Sleep Disorders
 April 2010 - Osteoarthritis Care
 March 2010 - Benefits of Home Care
 February 2010 - Options to Pay for Care
 January 2010 - Exercise for Seniors
 December 2009 - Quality In-Home Care as a Consumer Protection Issue
 November 2009 - Alzheimer's Web Resources
 October 2009 - Long-term Care Planning: When is Home Care the Appropriate Choice?
 September 2009 - Immunization Awareness
 August 2009 - Assisting the Sight Impaired
 July 2009 - Assistance for the Sandwich Generation
 June 2009 - Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention
 May 2009 - Providing Relief for the Alzheimer's Caregiver
 April 2009 - Living With and Caring For Cancer
 March 2009 - Care Coordination, a Value Added in Home Care
 February 2009 - Caring for the Heart
 January 2009 - Nutrition for Seniors
 December 2008 - Benefits of Home Care and Determining Appropriate Referrals
 November 2008 - National Family Caregivers Month
 October 2008 - Depression Masking as Dementia
 September 2008 - National Preparedness Month
 August 2008 - Exercise and Activity for Good Health, No Matter the Age
 July 2008 - Fall Prevention
 May 2008 - Stroke Awareness
 April 2008 - Parkinson's Awareness
 March 2008 - Consumer Protection
 February 2008 - Consumer Protection
 January 2008 - Ideas on Ways to Plan for 2008
 December 2007 - Tips for the Holidays



September 2010 - A Primer on Home Care

Technology to Enhance Independence at Home

Quiz - How Much Do You Know About Home Care? (new!)

Answers - How Much Do You Know About Home Care? (new!)

Models and Payment Options of In-Home Care Providers (new!)

Click the links below to access resource web sites to learn more about the basics of home care.

[ Newsletter Index ]



August 2010 - Technology to Enhance Independence at Home

Technology to Enhance Independence at Home

Beginner’s Guide to Personal Emergency Response Systems

Comparison Shopping Guide: Purchasing a Personal Emergency Response System

Maintaining Independence Through Home Technology

Click the links below to access resource web sites to find out more about technology to enhance independence at home.

[ Newsletter Index ]



July 2010 - Warning Signs That Care at Home May Be Needed

Warning Signs That Care at Home May Be Needed

Warning Signs that Care is Needed

When Finance Becomes an Issue

Tips to Protect Against Elder Fraud

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Financial Warning Signs
    Eight warning signs that the financial situation for an elderly person may be off track are outlined here.

    10 Signs of Alzheimer’s
    The 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, along with the differences between Alzheimer’s and typical age-related changes, are outlined here, courtesy of Alzheimer’s Association.

    Just Say NO to Senior Scams
    Consumer Action offers some tips on guarding against elder financial abuse. A great list of resources and additional links are also included here.

    National Do Not Call Registry
    Anyone who wishes to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls can register their phone number with this Web site.

    Fraud Center Resources
    The National Consumer League’s Fraud Center provides information on fraud targeted directly to the elderly.

    Preventing Elder Abuse
    The National Center on Elder Abuse (a division of the Administration on Aging) Web site offers downloadable fact sheets, resources, answers to questions related to elder abuse, and more.

[ Newsletter Index ]



June 2010 - Making the Home Safer for Aging in Place

Making the Home Safer for Aging in Place

Home Modifications for Safer Aging in Place (new!)

Overcoming Physical Difficulties Through Home Alterations (new!)

Tips for Preventing Falls (new!)

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Aging in Place
    From products to make life easier, to major home modifications, this site offers information on tools to allow the elderly to remain at home throughout the aging process

    Aging in Place Fact Sheet
    The National Association of Home Builders provides statistics on aging in place as well as suggested changes of the home to allow the elderly to remain at home.

    Universal Design
    This article, courtesy of AARP, explains the concept of universal design in homes – modifications to allow for comfort and safety regardless of the homeowner’s age.

    Videos on Universal Design
    This 5 part video series covers remodeling to include universal design home features, but the ideas showcase excellent examples of home features that provide for comfort and safety for all ages.

    Bathtub Safety
    The decision over whether to install a new bathtub or to update an existing tub for safety purposes is debated in this article from AARP.

    Certified Aging in Place Specialist Database
    NAHB offers a searchable database of Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS).

    NeighborWorks America
    NeighborWorks America provides a wealth of aging in place information: from legislature to training to products and services.

    Aging at Home
    Answers to many of the most common questions about aging in place are listed here, along with a chart with suggested implementations for a variety of specific challenges of the elderly.

    Newsletter on Aging in Place
    Go to this Web site to sign up for a newsletter about aging in place. Gadgets & Gizmos is one of their sections that is especially interesting.

[ Newsletter Index ]



May 2010 - Age Related Sleep Disorders

Age Related Sleep Disorders

Coping with Sundown Syndrome

Healthy Sleep Tips

Risks of Sleep Deprivation

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Seniors and Sleep: Why Seniors Are Often Sleep Deprived
    Article on WebMD.com examines and expands on the myth that seniors need more sleep in their later years than they did earlier in life.

    Aging and Sleeping
    The National Sleep Foundation provides helpful information about changing sleep patterns people face as they age.

    Sleep and Aging: The Effects of Aging on Sleep and Sleep Patterns
    Article on Sleep-Deprivation.com outlines the challenges faced by more than 50 percent of men and women over the age of 65 on a nightly basis.

    Sundowning
    The MayoClinic.com offers some helpful advice for dealing with dementia patients who experience symptoms of “sundowning,” a state of confusion at the end of the day and into the night.

    Seniors and Wandering
    FamilyEducation.com provides useful tips and outlines safety risks for handling nighttime wandering in seniors.

    Sleep and Alzheimer’s Disease
    The National Sleep Foundations offers insight on the effects of Alzheimer’s disease on the body’s natural sleep cycle.

    Sleeping Well As You Age
    Article on HelpGuide.org helps explain the causes of sleep problems in seniors as well as provides tips to correct poor sleep habits.

[ Newsletter Index ]



April 2010 - Osteoarthritis Care

Osteoarthritis Care

Get Moving to Manage Osteoarthritis

Recommendations to Manage Arthritis Pain

Separating Arthritis Facts from Fiction

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Osteoarthritis Risk Quiz
    This handy tool available at FightArthritisPain.org allows users to take a quick quiz that reveals their risks for osteoarthritis and offers tips on managing the condition.

    Arthritis Exercise Videos
    The Arthritis Foundation provides expert-approved step-by-step photo and video demonstrations for exercises that are designed to be safe and effective for people with arthritis.

    Fighting Arthritis Pain with Food
    This article, written by the Today Show’s nutritionist, notes how nutrition can fight the inflammation associated with several types of arthritis. The article lists important nutrients that reduce inflammation and several foods that contain those nutrients.

    Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases
    This fact sheet offers a detailed overview of symptoms, treatments, medications and other information specific to arthritic conditions, courtesy of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. A PDF version is also available.

    Arthritis: Keeping Your Joints Healthy
    AARP provides this in-depth health guide which overviews various types of arthritis, symptoms, treatment options and more. They also offer other helpful resources.

[ Newsletter Index ]



March 2010 - Benefits of Home Care

Benefits of Home Care

When Faced with Care Needs... Consider the Individual. Consider the Situation.

Home Care Checklist

The Many Benefits of In-Home Care

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



February 2010 - Options to Pay for Care

Options to Pay for Care

Answers to Common Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Questions

Veterans' Housebound Benefits

Tips for Using Private Funds for Care

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Long-Term Care Insurance
    ConsumerReports.org offers expert advice, recommendations and other useful information and resources pertaining to long-term care insurance.

    Reverse Mortgage Calculator
    AARP offers an easy-to-use calculator that will generate approximate estimates for two federally-insured reverse mortgages.

    Caring for Your Parents: Paying for Home Care
    PBS offers an informative Web site for those caring for aging parents which details the challenges of paying for home care services.

    Who Pays for Home Care Services?
    This informative fact sheet breaks down the different ways to pay for home care services, courtesy of the National Association for Home Care and Hospice.

    Viatical and Life Settlement Information
    One way to get some extra money to pay for care is to sell life insurance policies prior to death. Called viatical or life settlements, these are essentially the same vehicle. A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by the policy owner before the policy matures.

    A life settlement generally refers to the sale of a life insurance policy by a policy owner for less than the face value but more than the cash-surrender value of the policy to third party investors.

    Here is a New York Times article by David Leonhardt explaining the strategy behind viatical settlements.

    Filial Support Laws
    Who should be responsible for paying for eldercare? The growing numbers of older people, their increased longevity and increasing care costs continue to make these questions pressing. Read this article about recent enforcement of these laws.

[ Newsletter Index ]



January 2010 - Exercise for Seniors

Quality In-Home Care as a Consumer Protection Issue

Stay Healthy, Stay Independent

Simple Strength, Balance and Flexibility Exercises to Do at Home

Why Exercise is so Important for Elderly

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    10 Tips for Reaching Physical Activity Goals
    Everydaychoices.org offers practical advice for combating inactivity and securing one’s wellbeing through increased physical activity.

    Exercise & Physical Activity: Your Everyday Guide
    The National Institute on Aging offers this downloadable book aimed at getting seniors up and moving more so they can enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.

    Fitness Facts, Tips & Handouts
    The American Senior Fitness Association provides selected short articles containing important fitness and health information for seniors who are beginning or expanding an exercise program.

    American Heart Association
    This site contains information about the importance of physical activity for older adults and those with disabilities.

    familydoctor.org
    Information on getting started with an exercise program, tips on how to safely exercise, and types of exercises appropriate for the elderly population.

[ Newsletter Index ]



December 2009 - Quality In-Home Care as a Consumer Protection Issue

Quality In-Home Care as a Consumer Protection Issue

Risks of Registries

Top 10 Reasons to Hire an Agency

Form 1099 Misc (new!)

IRS Independent Contractor Brochure

Are You An Employer Questions

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



November 2009 - Alzheimer's Web Resources

November 2009 - Alzheimer's Web Resources

Communication Tips for Alzheimer’s Disease

Coping with Sundown Syndrome

Alzheimer’s: When to Stop Driving

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Alzheimer’s Disease Research
    As a program of the American Health Assistance Foundation, this site provides useful information about Alzheimer’s disease, symptoms and risk factors, treatment options and how to live with or care for someone with the disease.

    HBO: The Alzheimer’s Project
    The official Web site for the HBO documentary film series “The Alzheimer’s Project” allows visitors to stream the films to their computers; also provides information about the disease and other helpful resources.

    Alzheimer’s Disease: Signs, Symptoms and Stages
    Helpguide.org details the signs, symptoms, characteristics and common problems associated with each stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

    Test Your Memory Quiz
    Developed by researchers at the Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, England, this 5-minute test for detecting early Alzheimer’s disease is a powerful and valid diagnostic tool. The downloadable TYM test and scoring sheet are available courtesy of the British Medical Journal.

    Early Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
    The Family Caregiver Alliance provides an overview of early stage Alzheimer’s disease, with facts, tips and helpful advice for caregivers.

    Know the 10 Signs
    The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, along with helpful information about the importance of early detection and next steps.

    Information on Aging and Alzheimer’s
    Information about aging and Alzheimer's from the American Federation for Aging Research.

[ Newsletter Index ]



October 2009 - Long-term Care Planning: When is Home Care the Appropriate Choice?

October 2009 - Long-term Care Planning: When is Home Care the Appropriate Choice?

Assessment Questionnaire

Financial Planning Questions for Long-Term Care

Long-Term Care Options Worksheet

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information
    A wealth of information and resources to help plan for future long-term care needs, courtesy of the US Dept. of Health and Human Services.

    Long-Term Care Link
    This comprehensive resource for long-term care planning, available from the National Care Planning Council, offers an assortment of articles to help educate about all aspects of long-term care planning.

    Long-Term Care Insurance
    AARP discusses important features and key issues for those considering long-term care insurance.

    Medicare and Long-Term Care
    This section on Medicare.gov provides a summary of what long-term care means and the roles of Medicare and Medicaid in long-term care.

    Statistics on Long-Term Care
    Family Caregiver Alliance compiles national long-term care statistics from multiple studies and sources in this informative fact sheet.

    Long-Term Care Calculator
    The Long Term Care Insurance National Advisory Center offers this handy long-term care cost calculator to help people calculate the average cost of long-term care in their area and plan accordingly.

[ Newsletter Index ]



September 2009 - Immunization Awareness

September 2009 - Immunization Awareness

Steps to Protect and Improve Health (new!)

Flu and Pneumonia Vaccination Myths (new!)

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Why Should Older Adults Be Immunized?
    Immunizeseniors.org offers an assortment of reasons demonstrating the importance of immunization of older adults.

    Flu Vaccine
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides key facts and useful information about seasonal flu vaccinations.

    Pneumococcal Vaccine
    The Immunization Action Coalition offers a detailed Q&A page explaining and educating on the pneumococcal vaccine.

    Shingles Vaccine
    Downloadable PDF available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relays important information concerning the shingles vaccine.

    Shots for Safety
    The National Institute on Aging provides a downloadable document outlining vaccines that are especially important for keeping seniors healthy.

[ Newsletter Index ]



August 2009 - Assisting the Sight Impaired

August 2009 - Assisting the Sight Impaired

Assistive Products for Those with Vision Impairment

Home Modifications for Persons with Vision Impairments

Lighting Considerations for Persons with Low Vision

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Tips for Coping with Vision Loss
    An informative article from All About Vision provides useful information and advice for dealing with age-related vision loss.

    Low Vision Aids
    Useful article provided by Caring.com offers advice on how to help older adults identify aids and tools for dealing with low vision on a daily basis.

    Eye Disorders
    Lighthouse International’s VisionConnection provides information and the option to view comparative simulations of some of the most common vision conditions.

    Age-Related Macular Degeneration
    The National Eye Institute offers a wealth of information to help patients and their families learn about age-related macular degeneration.

    Glaucoma
    The Glaucoma Research Foundation provides all sorts of helpful information about glaucoma, including an overview of the disease, risk factors, tests, and other useful facts.

    Cataracts
    This comprehensive overview of the symptoms, causes and treatments of cataracts is available courtesy of the Mayo Clinic.

    Caregiver Tips for People with Low Vision
    Downloadable form offers 10 helpful tips for those who care for people with low vision, courtesy of the owner of Magnifiers and More.

    Self Help for Vision Loss
    VisionAware.org is a self-help resource center for vision loss Web site that provides free, practical, hands-on information to enhance quality of life and independence for adults with vision loss, their families and friends, caregivers and related professionals.

    Vision World Wide
    Vision World Wide, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the vision impaired through direct interaction and indirectly through the caregiving community, provides valuable information, education, guidance, support and consumer protection to the visually impaired as well as the many professionals who serve them.

    Vision Myths
    The Eye Digest, published by the University of Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary and available to read on agingeye.com, offers this article about common myths surrounding vision and wearing eyeglasses.

[ Newsletter Index ]



July 2009 - Assistance for the Sandwich Generation

July 2009 - Assistance for the Sandwich Generation

Information on Durable Power of Attorney

Long Distance Caregiving Tips

Planning for Care - Important Documents

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    360 Degrees of Financial Literacy
    This site offers tips, tools, worksheets and articles specifically designed for boomers who are simultaneously caring for children and aging parents.

    Children of Aging Parents
    Children of Aging Parents is a nonprofit, charitable organization whose mission is to assist the nation’s nearly 54 million caregivers of the elderly or chronically ill. The site includes an online support group that can refer you to local groups and offers a quarterly newsletter for caregivers.

    Caring Connections
    Caring Connections, a program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, provides an assortment of information on improving end-of-life care.

    Government Benefits
    Look here for eligibility of government benefits and get contact info for the programs you're interested in. Fill out the questionnaires to ensure that you're not missing anything.

    Reverse Mortgages
    Reverse mortgages can allow cash-strapped older people to borrow against the equity in their home so they can afford to keep living there. This section of the AARP site offers a comprehensive guide to lenders, fees, pitfalls and other specifics.

    American Association of Daily Money Managers
    Especially helpful for long-distance caring of parents, this site provides access to a daily money manager that will pay bills, make deposits, process insurance claims and handle other financial tasks that Mom and Dad may no longer be up to doing.

    National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
    The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys is a great means for keeping up to date on elder law issues and locating attorneys near an elderly loved one who specialize in elderly issues, including estate planning, powers of attorney, health proxies and Medicaid eligibility.

    Free Tax Counseling for the Elderly
    Tax-Aide, courtesy of the AARP, offers free income tax preparation tips, advice and resources from an army of volunteers year round.

    Medicare
    This government site for people who qualify for Medicare is easier to navigate and more useful than the official site of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (cms.hhs.gov). It offers an interactive tool for comparing Medicare prescription drug plans and tips for lowering costs in the coverage gap known as the doughnut hole.

[ Newsletter Index ]



June 2009 - Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention

June 2009 - Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention

Tips to Protect Against Elder Fraud

How to Protect Against Elder Abuse

Signs and Symptoms of Abuse

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Elder Abuse: Types, Signs, Risk Factors, and Prevention
    HelpGuide.org provides useful advice for understanding, preventing and resolving elder abuse.

    National Center on Elder Abuse Frequently Asked Questions
    The Administration of Aging Web site provides these frequently asked questions regarding elder abuse to help people spot warning signs of a possible problem.

    Elder Abuse Risk Factors
    The Foundation for Health in Aging outlines common risk factors for elder mistreatment and elder abuse.

    Preventing Elder Abuse by Family Caregivers
    Downloadable PDF guidebook from the National Center on Elder Abuse provides information on identifying and preventing elder abuse within family caregiving situations.

    Financial Abuse
    The National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse informs on the broad spectrum of conduct apparent in elder financial abuse cases.

    Elder Psychological Abuse
    Aging Well Magazine offers insight on the affects of elder psychological abuse in this article, “Devious Damage: Elder Psychological Abuse.”

    Elder Abuse Among Alzheimer’s Patients
    The Alzheimer’s Association provides tips and information for protecting those with dementia or Alzheimer’s from elder abuse.

    Power of Attorney Abuse
    The AARP Web site offers a detailed research report entitled “Power of Attorney Abuse: What States Can Do About It,” exploring the current problem of power of attorney abuse and how state legislatures can protect vulnerable adults against it.

    The Elder Justice Coalition
    The Elder Justice Coalition is a national advocacy voice supporting elder justice in America. Their Web site provides a gamut of information in the organization’s attempt to raise public awareness of the tragedy of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation at the local, state and national levels.

[ Newsletter Index ]



May 2009 - Providing Relief for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

May 2009 - Providing Relief for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

Activities for Those with Alzheimer's Disease

Communication Tips for Alzheimer's Disease

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Caregiver Stress Test
    The Caregiver Stress Check, available by the Alzheimer’s Association, helps caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients identify caregiver burnout, and offers resources to help deal with the burnout.

    Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Forum
    The American Geriatric Society offers an informative Q&A section concerning caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients.

    Support Network
    The Mayo Clinic provides tips for the Alzheimer’s caregiver to get help from friends and family in sharing the burden of care.

    Respite for Persons with Alzheimer’s Disease
    The ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center offers a downloadable PDF fact sheet with information about respite care for Alzheimer’s patients.

    What the Caregiver Needs
    HelpGuide.org offers tips and advice to Alzheimer’s caregivers for maintaining emotional and physical fitness.

    Communications Basics for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
    This helpful article from About.com provides tips for caregivers to maintain effective communication with Alzheimer’s patients.

    How Alzheimer’s Affects the Brain
    AgingCare.com offers this informative primer for caregivers to help understand how Alzheimer’s patients think.

    Alzheimer’s: When to Stop Driving
    MayoClinic.com provides valuable tips and advice for helping those whose loved ones suffer from Alzheimer’s take the keys away once and for all.

[ Newsletter Index ]



April 2009 - Living With and Caring For Cancer

April 2009 - Living With and Caring For Cancer

Chemotherapy Questions

Getting Help With Your Caregiving Responsibilities

How to Help Someone Diagnosed With Cancer

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Cancer Caregiver Checklist
    The American Cancer Society offers this checklist for caregivers of cancer patients to help identify signs of caregiver depression.

    Understanding the Diagnosis
    Cancer.com offers an array of information for caregivers to help guide through the journey of caring for a cancer patient.

    Caregiving for Your Loved One With Cancer
    Downloadable booklet from CancerCare provides support as well as practical ways for the caregiver to help the patient, take care of themselves and cope with the situation.

    Caring for a Cancer Patient
    Informative advice and tips for caring for a cancer patient and providing good, reliable caregiver support, provided by the American Cancer Society.

    Home Care for Cancer Patients
    A fact sheet courtesy of the National Cancer Institute offers valuable information about the various services provided by home care agencies and financial assistance available from government, public and private agencies.

    Cancer prevention: 7 Steps to Reduce Your Risk
    The Mayo Clinic offers some useful tips to reduce the risk of cancer.

    Cancer Treatment
    The National Cancer Institute breaks down the different types of cancer treatment into easy-to-read sections.

    Cancer Types
    Find out oncologist-approved information about more than 120 different types of cancer and cancer-related syndromes on Cancer.net.

    Common Questions About Diet and Cancer
    The American Cancer Society answers questions regarding common concerns about diet and physical activity in relation to cancer.

    Cancer Caregiver Burnout
    About.com offers advice for how to recognize and prevent burnout in caregivers of cancer patients.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Hospice
    Because hospice care can be a confusing and difficult journey, Hospicenet.org provides the answers to frequently asked questions about hospice services.

    What Is Hospice Care?
    When it comes to cancer, there are many things about hospice care that sets it apart from other types of health care. The American Cancer Society provides useful information about what hospice is and how it can help.

[ Newsletter Index ]



March 2009 - Care Coordination, a Value Added in Home Care

March 2009 - Care Coordination, a Value Added in Home Care

Coordinating In-Home Care

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



February 2009 - Caring for the Heart

February 2009 - Caring for the Heart

Blood Pressure Diary (new!)

FAQs About Heart/Stroke Survivors

Communication Tips for Heart Attack, Heart Surgery & Stroke Patients

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Warning Signs
    The American Heart Association provides basic warning signs of heart attack, stroke and cardiac arrest, as well as information on what to do in any of these situations.

    Cardiovascular Disease 101
    This overview is provided by the Mayo Clinic to help people understand the basics of cardiovascular disease and the conditions that can affect heart and blood vessels.

    High Blood Pressure
    Health information is provided by the National Institution on Aging on how to handle hypertension.

    Everyday Heart Health
    Learn about heart disease, heart health and heart attacks through helpful information provided by EverydayHealth.com.

    Cardiovascular Disease Stats
    This fact sheet lists common national statistics concerning cardiovascular disease.

    Global Effects
    An interactive map of the world, courtesy of the World Heart Federation, shows users the annual number of deaths for specific types of heart disease in various regions of the world.

    Heart Information Sheets
    The American Heart Association offers a number of downloadable information sheets to answer any heart-related questions.

    Heart Healthy Grocery List
    This easy-to-use online system helps create a grocery list of certified heart-healthy foods.

    Heart-Healthy Diet
    The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute offers an interactive nutrition calculator for creating a heart-healthy personal eating plan.

    AARP’s Heart Health
    The Heart Health section on the AARP Web site is full of helpful tips and advice for keeping one’s heart as healthy as possible.

    Understanding Stroke
    Family Caregiver Alliance offers an informative fact sheet to help caregivers when caring for stroke victims.

    How’s Your Heart?
    This online cholesterol health assessment reveals risk for heart disease, as well as information, tips and strategies for improving cholesterol levels.

    Smoking Among Adults: Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke
    Highlights from the 2004 Surgeon General’s Report are provided on the health consequences of smoking, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    Tobacco, Heart Disease and Stroke
    This downloadable fact sheet details how tobacco use contributes to cardiovascular diseases worldwide.

[ Newsletter Index ]



January 2009 - Nutrition for Seniors

January 2009 - Nutrition for Seniors

Daily Food Record Sheet

Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults

Nutritional Screening Tool

Tips for Eating Well

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Online Nutritional Screening
    An interactive MNA screening form provided by the Nestle Nutrition Institute allows users to find out if they are healthy or malnourished.

    Healthy Meals for One or Two
    Great information from the Mayo Clinic on how to plan healthy meals for one or two, reduce wasted food and add variety to meals.

    Eating Well While Aging
    Informative article on senior nutrition offers tips and advice for maintaining a healthy diet while dealing with the challenges of aging.

    Planning for Leftovers
    This downloadable PDF on senior-friendly ideas for healthy eating, from the Dieticians of Canada, gives tips and ideas for creative use of leftovers when cooking for one or two.

    Evaluating and Treating Unintentional Weight Loss in the Elderly
    The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this informative nutritional assessment and report detailing unintentional weight loss in aging adults.

    Nutrition Guidelines for Senior Citizens<
    Seniors-Site.com outlines various changes seniors face in nutritional guidelines and offers suggestions and tips to maintain a healthy diet.

    Nutrition and Aging
    Informative overview on nutrition, malnutrition and health in older adults, provided by the Foundation for Health in Aging.

    Nutrition and Aging Fact Sheet
    Useful information from Colorado State University on changes in the aging body and the importance of staying healthy and accommodating changing nutritional needs.

    Eating Well As We Age
    The FDA identifies common problems older people have in regards to eating well, and offers helpful suggestions and ideas for alleviating the problems.

[ Newsletter Index ]



December 2008 - Benefits of Home Care and Determining Appropriate Referrals

December 2008 - Benefits of Home Care and Determining Appropriate Referrals

Models of Care

Home Care Checklist

Care Decisions

Find home care providers in a specific geographic area:

[ Newsletter Index ]



November 2008 - National Family Caregivers Month

Reduce Caregiver Burnout

Inspirational Quotes

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



October 2008 - Depression Masking as Dementia

Memory Screening Question

Tips for Helping an Elderly Depressed Person

Understanding the Difference Between Dementia and Depression

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    HelpGuide
    Includes a scale to differentiate between depression and dementia and how to receive help.

    Mayo Clinic
    Provides information about treatment options for both Alzheimer's and depression.

    MedlinePlus
    Interactive tutorial that is a self screening tool that can be used to assist in determining if depression is present and how best to proceed if it is.

    Alzheimer's Association
    Provides an informative comparison of Alzheimer's and depression.

    National Guideline Clearinghouse
    Information from a study describing characteristics that increase the risk of depression and some recommended tests for screening.

    American Academy of Neurology
    Downloadable guideline from the American Academy of Neurology entitled "Screening and Treatment for Depression, Dementia, and Psychosis with Parkinson Disease."

    Mental Health America
    Provides concise facts on depression in older adults, as well as links for more information.

    Dementia.com
    The link for free access to Medline search, the National Library of Medicine's search service that provides access to over 11 million articles.

[ Newsletter Index ]



September 2008 - National Preparedness Month

Disaster Preparedness Resources

Recommended Emergency Supply Kit Items

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    Hypothermia Info
    The City of Boston informs older adults that "Cold Weather Spells Danger" through a hypothermia-related handout, available as a PDF.

    American Red Cross Tornado Information
    The American Red Cross has several suggestions to keep you and your loved ones as safe as possible when a tornado strikes.

    FDA Suggestions Regarding Food-Borne Illnesses
    The elderly with weakened immune systems are especially at risk of food-borne illnesses, and present special food safety challenges.

    Center for Disease Control
    The CDC Web site is easily accessed for monitoring waves of influenza as they occur.

    Department of Homeland Security
    Disaster preparedness information and resources, including specific ways to prepare a disaster plan that meets the needs of today's older Americans. (download pdf).

    Council for Excellence in Government
    Find out what your Readiness Quotient is when it comes to preparing for emergency situations. This Web site is a great tool to help individuals, families and communities determine and evaluate their readiness.

    American Red Cross
    Disaster preparedness suggestions including great input from seniors who have had experiences with emergencies.

    Prepare.org
    Sponsored by the American Red Cross, this site hopes to help vulnerable citizens of a community in preparing for disaster situations.

    Be Prepared with These Kits
    This Web site offers a complete line of emergency
    preparedness, earthquake preparedness, hurricane preparedness, disaster survival, and first aid kits. Their products contain essential items recommended for survival kits by F.E.M.A. and The American Red Cross.

[ Newsletter Index ]



August 2008 - Exercise and Activity for Good Health, No Matter the Age

Stay Healthy, Stay Independent

Strength, Balance & Flexibility Exercises

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
    This site contains information on the benefits of exercise.

    American College of Sports Medicine
    Recommendations on how to begin and maintain an exercise regimen.

    Fox News
    Information on the benefits of even light activity levels for elderly adults.

    University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
    Information on the physical and psychological benefits of exercise for the elderly population.

    American Heart Association
    This site contains information about the importance of physical activity for older adults and those with disabilities.

    Familydoctor.org
    Information on getting started with an exercise program, tips on how to safely exercise, and types of exercises appropriate for the elderly population.

    Mary Ann Wilson, host of the nationally syndicated PBS program “Sit and Be Fit” has videos and books she recommends for seniors on fitness:
    Click here.

[ Newsletter Index ]



July 2008 - Fall Prevention

Tips for Preventing Falls

Products for Preventing Falls

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



May 2008 - Stroke Awareness

Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

Making Life More Comfortable After a Stroke

Creating a Safe Environment

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    National Stroke Association
    An educational site including information on Stroke Prevention, Stroke Risk Factors, and Stroke Symptoms.

    The Stroke Awareness Foundation
    An organization whose mission is to improve community awareness of stroke and its treatment through advocacy, education and public awareness programs in the community. 

    Stroke Awareness for Everyone
    Support designed for stroke survivors and their families, in addition to doctors, nurses and therapists involved with stroke.

    American Stroke Association
    This site includes information about the causes and effects of stroke, support for stroke survivors, as well as resources for healthcare professionals.

    American Heart Association
    This site includes information on all cardiovascular diseases, their warning signs, and prevention.

    The Stroke Network
    Support designed for stroke survivors and their caregivers of adult stroke.

    Heart of the Issue
    Up-to-date medical headlines and the most important stories on heart health.

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
    This site includes information on all medical conditions as well as useful resources for healthcare providers.

    Triple Threat Challenge
    This site includes information on the combined cardiovascular threats of High levels of LDL, Low levels of HDL, and High levels of Triglycerides.

    The American Geriatrics Society
    Information on Stroke Awareness and Prevention for geriatric patients. 

[ Newsletter Index ]



April 2008 - Parkinson's Awareness

Parkinson's Safe Home (new!)

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

    National Parkinson Foundation
    An educational site on Parkinson's disease.

    Parkinson’s Hope
    Information and tools to provide hope for the future by educating you today.

    Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
    Dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson's disease within the decade through an aggressively funded research agenda and to ensuring the development of improved therapies for those living with Parkinson's today.  The site includes information on current research, a guide for the newly diagnosed and advice for caregivers.

    My Parkinson’s Info
    Includes daily updates to their blog and library as well as valuable offers from companies that provide solutions for those living with Parkinson’s disease. 

    National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
    Provides information on neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, recent discoveries and information on signing up for clinical research trials.

    Parkinson’s Disease Foundation
    The Parkinson's Disease Foundation (PDF) is a leading national presence in Parkinson's disease research, education and public advocacy. They are working for the nearly one million people in the US living with Parkinson's by funding promising scientific research and supporting people with Parkinson's, their families and caregivers through educational programs and support services.

    Patients Like Me Parkinson’s Disease Community
    Community for those dealing with Parkinson’s Disease.  Patients share their treatments and outcomes to help others connect who have similar conditions.

    WebMD
    While researchers chase a cure, patients wonder what will help now. Getting moving is one answer.  Watch this short video about how exercise can help Parkinson’s patients.  The site also includes information from diagnosis to day-to-day care.

    Parkinson’s Disease Frequently Asked Questions
    Print out these questions and answers about Parkinson’s Disease to discuss with your doctor.

[ Newsletter Index ]



March 2008 - Doctor Appreciation

Determining Type of Care

Medications Prescribed

AHA List of Questions

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



February 2008 - Consumer Protection

Determining Type of Care

Home Care Checklist

Form 1099 MISC

Independent Contractor Brochure

For more ideas on ways to research and make wise choices, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]



January 2008 - Ideas on Ways to Plan for 2008

Assessing Needs to Remain at Home

For more ideas on ways to plan for 2008, we recommend the following resources:

    Help Guide - Helpguide’s mission is to empower you and your loved ones to understand, prevent, and resolve health challenges.

    Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing: Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale - The Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale helps to assess independent living skills.

    Magee Rehabilitation - Everyday tips on how to make your home more safe.

    Aging Care - Agingcare.com will enhance the lives of caregivers by creating the most expansive community of support, easy access to scrutinized resources, cutting edge product information and unique, original content to assist them in making the most informed choices for the elderly.

[ Newsletter Index ]



December 2007 - Tips for the Holidays

Tips for Caregivers

Holiday Stress Assessment for Caregivers

For more tips for the holidays, we recommend the following resources:

[ Newsletter Index ]

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