• Companions
  
• Homemakers
  
• Personal Care Aides
  
• Home Health Aides
  
• Nurses Aides
  
• CNA's
  
• CHHA's
  
• Care Management
  
• LifeLine
  
• Home Safety Services
  
• Physical Therapy
  

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

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.

Compare cost of home care with other long-term care options
US News and World Report reports on the seventh annual cost of care survey by GenWorth Financial, a major seller of long-term care insurance.

Explaining Medicare home health care
This is the official US Government booklet about Medicare home health care benefits for people with original Medicare.

What’s the difference between home care and home health care?
A simple comparison chart shows how home health care and home care differ.

Information to help determine which type of home care is most appropriate
Although this downloadable PDF is about Michigan specifically, it is a good explanation of the differences in home care and home health care and gives some good examples of how to determine which one is appropriate for care needs.

Differences between full service home care agencies, private hires and referral agencies
Within the scope of care when paying for services, this article gives a good explanation of the differences in hiring an agency and using independent contractors or referral/registries.

[ Newsletter Index ]

August 2010 - 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.

Aging in Place Technology Watch
This accumulation of blogs provides some insight into the latest in technological advancements and industry trends for using technology to solve some aging in place issues.

Microsoft’s Computer Guide for Boomers
Learn easy ways to customize your computer without downloading or purchasing anything. Tips are also provided for the two-thirds of those of us over 50 who have vision, hearing, or dexterity impairments that will impact our computer use.

Electronic Sensors to Catch Early Alzheimer’s Symptoms
This article discusses the current studies using monitors and online tests to track subtle changes in people’s daily mobility and behavior in order to help with the early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Descriptions of Tracking Devices for Alzheimer’s
This article discusses the different types of devices for tracking lost Alzheimer’s patients, and how they work.

Companies that Sell Tracking Devices for Alzheimer’s Patients
This site provides a helpful listing of companies that make electronic tracking devices for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

[ Newsletter Index ]

July 2010 - 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

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

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

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

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:

The National Association of Home Care and Hospice
Find home care providers in a specific geographic area.

The National Private Duty Association
Another resource to find home care providers in a specific geographic area.

Tips from the National Institute on Aging
“There’s No Place Like Home – For Growing Old” offers helpful advice for seniors who wish to stay in their own homes and receive care. There is even a downloadable PDF on this site that contains the same helpful information.

Options for Home Care Services
Although focused on Alzheimer’s care, this informative list explains the various options for care, both in-home and institutional.

Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers: Why Work Through an Agency?
This informative article details the pros of using an agency for privately paid in-home care services.

The Family Caregiving Alliance as a Resource
This organization presents an overview of the different options available to caregivers and persons with cognitive disorders and other chronic health conditions. Organizations listed throughout this site can help locate specific services. A good explanation of different types of assistance is listed here.

[ Newsletter Index ]

February 2010 - 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

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

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:

How to Choose a Home Care Provider
Checklist from the National Association for Home Care provides questions to ask to assist in selecting the best home care provider.

Hiring a Caregiver Can Be Taxing
Article available on Kiplinger.com outlines various financial and legal risks possible when people decide to hire care providers for loved ones themselves.

Do You Have a Household Employee? Independent Contractor Information
The IRS provides detailed information about legally employing an independent contractor to work within a home setting.

National Private Duty Association Position Paper
An article on the issues with hiring independent contractors from the National Private Duty Association. Note that this is a trusted source.

Choosing In-Home Care
Parentgiving.com offers useful advice for weighing available in-home care options in this informative article.

[ Newsletter Index ]

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coordinating In-Home Care

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

Geriatric Assessment & Care Management
Helpguide.org offers an informative overview of geriatric assessments for developing a care plan.

Questions to Ask When Looking for a Professional Geriatric Care Manager
Helpful information from the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.

Adult Day Care Centers
Helpguide.org offers this guide to options and selecting the best center for your needs.

Top 10 Products for Aging Comfortably
The National Aging In Place Council showcases 10 products that can make your home more comfortable, and your life simpler and safer.

Aging-In-Place Design Checklist
A checklist of exterior and interior design elements to consider when building or remodeling homes for seniors.

Home Care Services: What Services Do You Need?
Mayo Clinic offers questions to serve as a guide in choosing the best home care services provider for your needs.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc.
NAELA site assists lawyers, bar organizations, and others who work with older clients and their families.

Social Work and Long-Term Care Services
Downloadable report available from the National Association of Social Workers details effects of social work in long-term care and aging.

National Association of Personal Financial Advisors
NAPFA is the nation’s leading organization dedicated to the advancement of fee-only comprehensive financial planning.

Personal Emergency Response Systems
FAQs provided by Caregiver.com offer valuable information concerning emergency response systems.

Money & Legal Matters
Caring.com offers an array of useful information about money and legal matters associated with eldercare.

BenefitsCheckup
Useful tool with information about programs and services designed for assisting in eldercare, available from the National Council on Aging.

[ Newsletter Index ]

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

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

Models of Care

Home Care Checklist

Care Decisions

Find home care providers in a specific geographic area:

The National Private Duty Association Members

The National Association of Home Care and Hospice Members

Home Care Services
Learn about various home care services to help you figure out the best available options for your situation.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Very educational and informative descriptions and insights about a method of assessing in regard to home care; also includes a laymen’s health assessment worksheet.

Tips from the National Institute on Aging
“There’s No Place Like Home – For Growing Old” offers helpful advice for seniors who wish to stay in their own homes and receive care.

Basic Statistics About Home Care 2008
This informative PDF from the National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) provides a basic overview of the home care industry across the nation.

How to Choose a Home Care Provider
Educational guide from National Association of Home Care and Hospice (NAHC) that offers helpful information on reimbursed in-home care services, specifically coverage under Medicare.

Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers: Why Work Through an Agency?
Informative article details the pros of using an agency for private duty home care services.

National Private Duty Association (NPDA)
The NPDA represents the nation’s private duty home care providers that employ their care force, provide background checks on personnel as well as other screenings, and are bonded and insured.

[ Newsletter Index ]

Reduce Caregiver Burnout

Inspirational Quotes

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

Respite Tips for Caregivers
Brochure that encourages informal caregivers to consider using respite services and offers suggestions about ways to make their respite time most effective.

WebMD’s Caregiver Burnout Symptoms
Learn to recognize the symptoms of caregiver burnout through advice from WebMD.

Help Guide: Understand Respite Care
Learn more about the different types of respite care.

Taking Care of YOU: Self-Care for Family Caregivers
An informative guide with valuable tips for keeping healthy while delivering care to others.

Achieving Emotional Distance From Overwhelming Caregiving Responsibilities
Learn a strategy to help a caregiver deal with feelings and be objective in providing daily care over the long-term to a loved one.

Workplace Programs For Family Caregivers
Provides information on workplace programs for family caregivers.

Family Caregiving Statistics
Great statistics on family caregivers and family caregiving, provided by the National Family Caregivers Association.

Tips For Surviving the Stressful Holiday Season
Here are some helpful tips from AlzOnline for surviving the stressful holiday season.

FAQ’s on Caregiving
Informative FAQ’s on caregiving from the Department of Health and Human Services.

Strategies For Employers to Support Working Caregivers
AARP offers information and retention strategies for employers to support working caregivers.

An Online Resource and Community For Family Caregivers
Strength for Caring is an online resource and community for family caregivers, helping them to take care of their loved ones and themselves.

An Interactive Social Networking Community For Caregivers
Revolution Health has developed an interactive social networking community for caregivers to meet others who share their interests, goals, challenges and more.

[ Newsletter Index ]

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 ]

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 ]

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 ]

Tips for Preventing Falls

Products for Preventing Falls

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

Guidelines for the Prevention of Falls in Older Persons
Information for caregivers and family members of the elderly on methods to prevent falls in the elderly population.

International Fall Prevention Institute
This site contains information on statistics and helpful links for fall prevention.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Contains information on how to identify elderly who are at risk for falls, and how to prevent falls in those individuals.

Tremblay, K. R. and C. E. Barner, "Preventing Falls in the Elderly,"Colorado State University Extension
Causes and prevention of falls in the elderly population.

The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging consumer pamphlet "A patient's guide to preventing falls"
An informational pamphlet on preventing falls in the geriatric community.

Improve Balance: The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging
An informational pamphlet on ways to improve balance in 10 minutes a day.

Reduce Risk of Falling: The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging
An informational pamphlet on ways to reduce your risk of falling.

Danger of Falls in Elderly: The AGS Foundation for Health in Aging
Information on the danger of falls in the elderly community.

[ Newsletter Index ]

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 ]

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 ]

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:

Health Literacy: A Presciption to End Confusion
A report brief from the Institute of Medicine on how limited health literacy can lead to billions in avoidable health care costs.

MEDLINEplus
A service of the National Library of Medicine featuring current health news, dictionaries, MEDLINE, and more.

DrugDigest
Consumer health information about drugs, herbs, and supplements.

Private Pay Home Care Referral: Issues and Challenges by Allen Hager
Article providing information on the types of private duty home care services and the key issues and challenges associated with each model.

[ Newsletter Index ]

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:

National Center on Elder Abuse
The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) serves as a national resource center dedicated to the prevention of elder mistreatment

The Accidental Employer
Obligations of Trusts/Trustees When Using Placement Agencies to Meet Trust Obligations

Do You Have a Household Employee?
Independent Contractor information from the IRS

The National Elder Abuse Incidence Study
Report put together by The National Center on Elder Abuse and The American Public Human Services Association

Social Work Today Magazine
Avoiding Hidden Pitfalls of Home Care

Care Guide @ Home
Everything families need to understand, plan and manage care for their elderly loved ones

Private Duty Homecare Association
Established by the National Association of Home Care & Hospice, the Private Duty Homecare Association is dedicated to helping the ill and disabled remain in their own homes

National Private Duty Association
NPDA is an association dedicated to making private duty home care agencies more successful

[ Newsletter Index ]

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 ]

Tips for Caregivers

Holiday Stress Assessment for Caregivers

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

Tips for a Stress Free Holiday by Julie Hunt, Stress Expert
Nine simple steps to help you relax and enjoy the holidays stress-free

Holiday Stress Assessment for Caregivers
Do you do it out of habit, tradition, free choice, or obligation? Is it a one person job, or can it be shared?

Easing the Added Stress of Caregiving During the Holidays
Stress occurs when we work too much, sleep too little, try to cope with difficult or troubling situations, and when we neglect to take good care of ourselves…

Outwit the Holiday Blues
Try these creative solutions for a happy, healthy season

Stress, depression and the holidays: 12 tips for coping
Stress and depression can ruin your holidays and hurt your health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help ward off stress and depression.

[ Newsletter Index ]