With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I’d like to take a moment to recognize and say thanks to all of the amazing women around the world who expertly perform the mind-boggling juggling act of motherhood each and every day.

As a mother myself, I know the pure joy a child can bring to your world. From the moment Lex arrived, I was overjoyed, and still to this day, just seeing her smile or hearing her laugh brings me such happiness!

I can honestly say that being a mother has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life … but, as with any worthwhile and meaningful endeavor, it comes with its fair share of challenges and frustrations.

As a mother, you want only the best for your children, but all that joy and laughter come with a lot of late nights, early mornings and overall exhaustion. A mother’s to-do list is ever-growing, and her work is never done – laundry, dinner, dishes, homework, soccer games … not to mention meetings, projects and deadlines if you work outside the home.

I can still remember leaving work in Cincinnati well after the close of business, only to drive almost three hours to Indiana University to watch Lex play in a soccer game that evening. Sure, I was exhausted, but I did it because I love her more than anything, and I knew it was important to her.

The second my little girl was born, my priorities shifted – she became the center of my world. But I still had a life outside of her, full of responsibilities and obligations that required my attention … and these days, working mothers are the norm.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nearly 71% of mothers were working or looking for work in 2011, and some of those women are also caring for elderly parents and grandparents. The term “Supermom” has taken on an entirely new meaning!

This Mother’s Day, I encourage you to take a minute to just say “Thanks” to all those Supermoms around the world, whose daily sacrifices, selflessness and generosity are a true inspiration to all of us.

In addition to traditional flowers, chocolates and cards, offer your Supermom a couple hours of respite care by watching the kids, doing the laundry or making her a nice dinner. Or have a little fun and calculate your Supermom’s salary!

Remember, we do what we do because we love it, but a little appreciation always helps!

If you or a loved one suffers from Parkinson’s disease, you know how deeply frustrating and isolating it can feel to slowly lose control of your mobility and independence … but you’re not alone. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, it is estimated that one million Americans and between four to six million people worldwide currently have Parkinson’s disease. In the United States alone, as many as 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

Parkinson’s is a disorder of the central nervous system affecting the nerve cells in the brain that send signals to initiate and control movement. The progression of the disease varies by person, and symptoms can include:

• Trembling and shaking of the hands, arms, legs and face
• Stiffness or rigidity of muscles in the limbs and neck
• Lack of usual arm swing when walking
• Slowness of movement or freezing when attempting to move
• Impaired balance and coordination
• Lack of natural facial expressions, blinking of the eyes and eye contact
• Changes in speech including monotone and mumbling, and trouble swallowing
• Stooped posture that may appear similar to Osteoporosis

While Parkinson’s is most commonly seen in seniors, it can affect young adults as well. The actor Michael J. Fox was diagnosed at the age of 30, and the professional boxer Muhammed Ali was diagnosed at the age of 42. Presently, there is no known cure for Parkinson’s, but your doctor can prescribe medications and treatment options to help to alleviate the frequency and intensity of symptoms.

If you’re caring for someone with Parkinson’s, try to be patient and listen to your loved one’s concerns and wishes. Remember, it is likely more frustrating to them than it is to you. Focus on adapting your loved one’s living arrangement to ease daily activities and maximize independence. Suggestions include:

• Removing tripping hazards, such as rugs and cords
• Using a cane, walker or wheelchair
• Arranging furniture so it is easy to maneuver through
• Installing grab bars in bathrooms near toilets, tubs and sinks
• Using specially designed wide-grip utensils, pens, etc.
• Wearing slip-on or Velcro shoes and clothing with elastic waistbands and minimal buttons, zippers, etc.
• Exercising in water to alleviate stress on the joints while still benefiting one’s health
• Watching protein intake, as it may interfere with medications’ effectiveness

As with any life-changing illness, coping with Parkinson’s can put a strain on your relationships. You may consider joining a local support group or an online forum and/or enlisting the services of a professionally trained caregiver, such as a Home Helpers caregiver, to provide personal care and assistance so you can focus on living life to the fullest and enjoying time with loved ones.

Additional Resources

• Home Helpers: http://homehelpers.cc/news-events/April-Parkinsons.html
• National Parkinson Foundation: www.parkinson.org
• American Parkinson Disease Association: www.apdaparkinson.org
• Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/parkinsons-disease/DS00295
• The Michael J. Fox Foundation: http://www.michaeljfox.org

My own personal journey with family caregiving began in my late teens. Over the next 20 years at any given time, my family was caring for at least two family members who were either in declining health or facing terminal illnesses.

While we had quite a bit of family to help provide support, we hired supplemental care as well. My family was extremely fortunate with every caregiver we hired; they took wonderful care of our loved ones and treated them with dignity and compassion.

As a result, my family was less stressed and better able to provide loving care as well. This all began 30 years ago when home health care was just a blip on a radar screen.

These days, home health care is one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries, which is no surprise given the rate at which our population is aging. People are living longer today than ever before, and time and again, studies show that aging in place can do wonders for one’s overall health and well-being.

Whereas assisted living facilities and skilled nursing facilities used to be the assumed “next step” in elder care, home healthcare agencies, such as Home Helpers, are increasingly broadening their continuum of care to include medical services, such as medication and care management and vital signs monitoring, thereby enabling seniors to age with dignity in the comfort of home, surrounded by family and friends, longer than was previously possible.

Additionally, home care is often more affordable than institutional care due to the flexibility and customization of services to fit your lifestyle. According to the 2012 Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the national average cost of licensed homemaker and home health aide services remained the same over the course of 2011, while the national average cost of assisted living care increased 1.19% and the cost of skilled nursing care increased 3.63% for a semi-private room to 4.23% for a private room.

Regardless of your particular situation, choosing the right care option for your loved one is a major life decision that merits sufficient consideration. From exploring your care options to determining the best fit, the following resources can help guide on your way:

• Home Helpers: www.HomeHelpers.CC
• AARP: www.aarp.org
• Genworth Financial: www.genworth.com/content/home.html
• Care.com: http://www.care.com/

In celebration of National Nutrition Month, this is the second in a two-part series where I’ll share tips on how to pursue a healthier lifestyle.

In my last blog, I shared three simple steps to help you get started on your quest for your best self, including thinking long-term, opting for fresh instead of processed foods and planning ahead. This week, I’ll share 10 ways you can improve your health today!

1. Drink more water: You hear it all the time, but sufficient hydration is one of the easiest ways to flush your body of toxins and keep your organs functioning at their best. It can also help control your appetite – according to an article on www.LIVESTRONG.com, researchers from Virginia Tech found that drinking 16 oz. of water before meals three times a day over a 12-week period increased average weight loss by about 5 lbs., compared with those who did not increase water intake.*
2. Get a good night’s sleep: Insufficient sleep has been linked to several health risks, including weight gain, high blood pressure, decreased immunity, memory loss, depression, substance abuse and more. The exact amount you need depends on your age and individual needs, but the National Sleep Foundation recommends 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night for adults and even more for teens and children.
3. Opt for the real deal: Instead of drinking fruit juice, eat the fruit instead. You’ll be getting the same vitamins and minerals as the juice, with less sugar and more fiber.
4. Don’t fear fat: Just because something says “low-fat” doesn’t mean it’s healthy for you. In fact, good fats, including omega-3s found in salmon, walnuts and avocados, are essential to your physical and emotional wellbeing. They also help satiate your appetite so you don’t overeat later on.
5. Prep food first thing: When you get home from the grocery, take a few minutes to chop up fruits and veggies and pre-portion snacks so they’re easy to grab throughout your busy week. It’s a lot easier to make smart choices when you’re on the go if they require minimal effort.
6. Make food fun: Tantalize your taste buds with new, healthy recipes, rather than eating the same boring meals over and over again.
7. Spice things up: Rather than dousing your dinner in fatty condiments, like butter and mayonnaise, liven up your entrée with fresh salsas, herbs and spices. They’re usually low in fat and calories, and high in fiber and antioxidants. Plus, you can grow many of them in your own garden, making them free and convenient!
8. Everything in moderation: Trying to eliminate a certain food from your diet will likely backfire because you’ll overeat other foods in an attempt to satisfy your craving. Instead, save your favorite “forbidden” food for special occasions – holidays, your birthday or simply the end of the work week!
9. Savor each bite: A study published in the “Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism” found that those who ate slower felt more satisfied with less. Gather together with friends and family for your next meal and enjoy one another’s company rather than mindlessly munching while multitasking.
10. Grab a buddy: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is much easier and a lot more fun with a friend or family member. You’ll help keep each other motivated and accountable for your progress. A Home Helpers caregiver can also help to ensure you and your loved ones are eating a well-balanced diet by helping with the grocery shopping and meal preparation.

Food is not only fuel; it’s meant to be enjoyed!

*Reported at the 2010 National Meeting of the American Chemical Society

This is the first in a two-part series where I’ll share tips on how to pursue a healthier lifestyle.

As an avid runner, I’ve always been passionate about pursuing a healthy lifestyle. But exercise is only part of the equation – proper nutrition plays an even bigger role in helping me to feel and look my best.

When I fuel my body with the nutrients, minerals and vitamins it craves, I feel more focused and energized, and that confidence translates into all aspects of my life – both personal and professional. I can honestly say that my lifelong pursuit has been well worth the effort – on a recent visit to my physician, I received a clean bill of health!

No matter what your age, it’s never too late to start taking better care of yourself. Proper nutrition is the foundation of a happy, healthy lifestyle – when you make smart food choices, your body will work more efficiently, and any medications you’re taking will have a chance to work properly.

In celebration of National Nutrition Month, I encourage you to take a proactive approach to your health, one choice at a time. Rather than jumping on the bandwagon of the latest fad diet, take a step back and reexamine your ultimate objective – a healthier lifestyle in which you feel more energized, optimistic and comfortable in your own skin.

Get started today with these three simple steps:

1. Mindset Makeover: The pursuit of a healthy lifestyle must be viewed as a marathon, not a sprint. All too often, people dive into the latest diet craze, only to get burnt out and frustrated shortly thereafter. Gradually refine your daily eating habits to achieve real and lasting change.
2. Fresh is Best: The closer a food is to its natural state, the better it is for you. Do the majority of your grocery shopping in the perimeter of store – that’s where you’ll find fresh produce, dairy and meat. Try to avoid processed or refined foods and foods that are high in sodium or sugar. Visit the Home Helpers Nutrition webpage for the USDA’s latest dietary recommendations.
3. Plan Ahead: Plan out your meals for the week before you leave for the grocery; then, buy only what’s on your list. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach, as you’ll be more likely to make impulse purchases.

Remember, the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle is a lifelong journey, not a destination. In my next blog, I’ll share 10 tips to help keep you motivated and on track in your quest for your best self!

We’ve all seen the famous TV commercial with the elderly woman calling out, “Help! I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” And while such advertisements can often overdramatize reality, this one is frighteningly accurate. According to the American Geriatrics Society, one-third of people age 65 and older will fall each year.

No one wants to admit this could happen to them, but statistics don’t lie. Fortunately, telehealth monitoring has come a long way since this famous commercial originated, and there are now a wide range of medical alert systems, including Direct Link Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS), available to fit even the most active lifestyles. All Direct Link units are monitored 24/7 by a CSAA-5 Diamond Certified Care Center:

• Standard Land-Line or Cellular PERS*: Worn as a discrete pendant or wristwatch, these PERS are convenient and easy to use, giving you and your loved ones an added sense of security at all times. In the event of an emergency, simply push the small button to be connected to a friendly Care Center Representative who will get you the help you need. The Cellular PERS works with cellular networks and does not require you to have a cell phone.
• The Care Watch*: By utilizing cellular and GPS technology, The Care Watch can track your location in case of an emergency. This unit is especially popular for those with Alzheimer’s or Dementia who have a tendency to wander.
• Fall Sensor: This unit is specifically designed to detect a fall and automatically dial the Central Monitoring Station to ensure you receive help promptly. If no sudden movement is detected within 10 seconds, an “unconsciousness” alarm will be raised. Help can also be reached 24/7 by pushing the button.

It may be difficult to admit you or a loved one could benefit from using a PERS, but the fact is it can be a real lifesaver. Nothing beats the peace of mind that comes with knowing you or your loved one can reach help 24/7, day or night. For more information about medical alert systems, visit www.DirectLink911.com.

* Services may be limited in some areas.

Happy Valentine’s Day! For centuries, February 14th has been celebrated as the holiday of love – a special day on which people around the world, particularly couples, take time out of their hectic schedules to express their love and appreciation for one another by showering them with cards, flowers, candy and gifts.

One day a year dedicated to showing your loved ones how much you truly care … but one day isn’t nearly enough! In today’s fast-paced society, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness and lose sight of what’s really important – spending precious time with those we hold dear.

Oftentimes, the most important people in our lives – family and friends – get pushed to the backburner in lieu of work, chores and social obligations. We get so focused on checking items off our never-ending to-do lists, that we neglect to nurture the most important relationships in our lives!

This Valentine’s Day, I encourage you to reach out to loved ones near and far, especially those you haven’t spoken to or seen in a while and those who recently lost a loved one of their own. Resolve to spend more time with your friends and family, and start celebrating the spirit of Valentine’s Day year-round!

Here are some fun, easy ways to show your loved ones you care. And I promise, you’ll feel rejuvenated and better able to tackle that to-do list tomorrow!

• Date Night: Often reserved for couples, date night can be applied to everyone, from parents and siblings to work friends and neighbors. Once a month, meet at a restaurant or invite others over to your house to enjoy new recipes and good conversation.
• Movie Night: Snuggle up on the couch with your family or invite your friends and neighbors over for some popcorn and a feel-good flick.
• Community Project: Whether you’re volunteering at a local charity or lending your neighbor a hand with a house project, helping others is a sure-fire way to boost your spirits and give you a renewed sense of purpose. If you’re looking for a rewarding career in home care, Home Helpers is always looking for compassionate individuals to join our team! Simply provide some basic information, and the nearest office will be in touch to discuss the opportunities in your area.

Remember, the spirit of Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be reserved for February 14th – celebrate your sweethearts and loved ones every day!

With the excitement of the holidays behind us and the decorations packed away, the dreary days of winter are officially here. For some, this time of year comes as a welcomed relief from the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but for others, especially elderly loved ones living alone, it can mark the beginning of a long, bleak season spent cooped up indoors.

Winter’s colder temps and shorter days can make it difficult to get motivated and stay active, resulting in lackluster moods, less energy and weakened immune systems. Shake off the “winter blues” and keep your spirits bright with these tips to keep you and your loved ones happy and healthy this season:

• Spend time with friends, family and neighbors: Visiting time isn’t over just because the holidays have passed! Now, more than any other time of the year, you and your loved ones’ spirits can benefit from socializing or an extra hand around the house. Try getting together once a week for lunch or dinner, or schedule a weekend shopping trip or excursion. Help out your neighbor with shoveling the driveway or moving firewood. If you live far away, Skype, Facebook or just a simple phone call are great ways to keep in touch until your next get-together.
• Cold and flu prevention: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, getting a flu vaccine is your best defense against this nasty bug, especially if you are 65 and older, pregnant or have a chronic health condition, such as asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease. The CDC also recommends taking preventative measures to stop the spread of germs, including frequent hand-washing and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): When winter rolls around, it’s not uncommon to feel a little down due to shorter, colder and darker days, but when it becomes a recurring trend every fall and winter, you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a serious condition characterized by symptoms of depression. Doctors attribute SAD to a lack of natural sunlight and can prescribe light therapy and/or antidepressants to treat your symptoms.
• Inclement weather preparedness: Fortunately, this winter has been unseasonably mild across much of the U.S.; however, it’s still important to be prepared in the event of a severe winter storm or power outage. In addition to bottled water, non-perishables, flashlights and firewood, AARP recently shared a “stay bag” list of storm supplies published in the New York Times that included LED lights, a propane camping stove, a stockpile of gas and a battery-operated radio.
• Adequate apparel and safe driving: If you must be out and about in frigid weather and dangerous driving conditions, be sure to wear plenty of layers, and keep a set of emergency supplies in your car, including a blanket, snacks, water, jumper cables, a flashlight, an ice scraper, flares and a first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to keep your gas tank at least a quarter of the way full to prevent it from freezing.

Don’t let the “winter blues” get you down this year! Make the most of it, and enjoy this time with family and friends. Before you know it, spring will be here!

“If you need anything, just let me know …”

If you’re a family caregiver, you’ve probably heard this offer countless times. Or maybe you’ve made this gesture yourself to a friend or colleague who’s caring for a loved one. It’s a common refrain from well-meaning people who want to help, but simply don’t know how.

The fact is nearly one-third of the U.S. population is caring for a chronically ill, disabled or aging loved one for an average of 20 hours a week! That level of responsibility, coupled with work, family, chores and social commitments, can quickly become an impossible juggling act that’s sure to exhaust even the most skilled multitasker.

As a caregiver for my grandmother and both my parents, I know it can be difficult to allow others to care for your loved one. You may feel guilty or ashamed that you can’t “handle” it yourself, or maybe you don’t trust others to provide the care your loved one deserves. But there comes a time when you must admit to yourself that accepting help may be the best thing for both you and your loved one.

Think about how your load could be lightened or visit our website for caregiver tips to keep you at your best. Make a list so you’re ready the next time help is offered:

• Making meals that can be frozen and eaten at one’s convenience
• Keeping the loved one company so the caregiver can enjoy some “me” time
• Accompanying the loved one to doctor’s appointments so the caregiver doesn’t have to rearrange his/her schedule
• Picking up prescriptions if one is going to be in the pharmacy’s area
• Walking the dog or watering the plants
• Doing a load of laundry and straightening up the house

Just a few hours of respite care a week can help to rejuvenate your spirits, allowing you to truly enjoy and cherish this time you have with your loved one. The memories you make today will live on forever – a rich tapestry of your family’s history.

January is National Get Organized Month. For many people, the word “organized” brings to mind closets, desks or calendars. I’d like to urge you to think about organizing your medical records. Proper organization of these files could save a life, maybe even your own.

Consider, for example, what might happen if you faced a medical emergency. Would your family members know your wishes? Would they have at their fingertips a list of your medications or the phone numbers for your doctors? Suppose your parent, spouse or child suddenly had a medical concern. Would you have all the information necessary to deal with the situation quickly and calmly? Would their other caregivers?

For now, most medical data is created and presented on paper. Until electronic systems become more uniform and accessible, you’ll be pulling together reams of documents. To help ensure the data is most beneficial, it’s important to make these records easily located and clearly understood.

• With that overall priority in place, start by selecting a system that works best for you. Some people prefer three-ring binders. Others want hanging folders. Make it easy for yourself and for anyone else who needs access. You’ll want to establish distinguishable files for each family member. This could mean color-coded binders or folders. Whatever method you choose, ensure each person’s medical records remain separate of other family members.

• Compile an overview of each person. List each family member’s personal statistics such as full name, date of birth, allergies, blood type, medications, etc., as well as the names of all doctors, specialists, dentists, insurance carriers, etc., along with their contact information. This list should be the first page or pages of the binder or folder. It also should be carried in wallets and handbags, so that it is available outside the home.

• Pages following this overview will provide more specific information about each family member. Starting with the most current information first, be sure to include test results, immunization records, insurance policies, bills and payments, earlier treatments, surgeries, family medical reports, etc. This also is a good place to record observations about medical issues or concerns. Include any materials that may be relevant to a treating physician.

Gathering all this information can be time-consuming, but ultimately it will be worth it because of the peace of mind it will bring. In an emergency, you’ll appreciate that information can be shared more readily and questions can be answered more thoroughly. Additional tips for getting organized can be found on our website.