Senior Helpers In Home Eldercare of Central New Jersey Advises Families to Protect Elderly from Summer Health Dangers

Record heat has families making ‘Summer Survival Kits’ for seniors

July, 2010 – For most of us, record summer heat means little more than higher cooling bills and more time at the pool – but for aging seniors living on their own, the consequences are far more serious. The National Climactic Data Center reports the Northeast had its warmest March, April and May in history. A stagnant June heat wave brought records for both high temperatures and total days above 90 degrees for a third of the country, stretching from Missouri to New York to the Southeast. The summer heat is already taking its toll, and this is just the start of the season.

That’s why the senior care experts from Senior Helpers, the nation’s fastest growing in-home senior care provider, are advising families to protect aging relatives by putting together a simple Senior Summer Survival Kit. These kits are an easy, inexpensive way to make sure elderly loved ones have what they need to stay safe and comfortable during hot summer days – especially when family members may be off on vacation.

“Whether seniors are traveling themselves or staying on their own while the rest of the family is out of town, it’s absolutely vital that aging family members have the resources to be safe, happy and healthy,” says Peter Ross, CEO and co-founder of Senior Helpers. “Seniors are far more susceptible to health problems related to summer heat than any other demographic. Taking the time to prepare one of these kits to make sure loved ones have the essentials they need can make all the difference in preventing a serious situation.”

Quick Facts – Why is Heat Dangerous for Seniors?

• The amount of water retained by the body decreases substantially with age.
• As a result, seniors are at far greater risk of heat-related health problems such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, severe sunburn and dehydration.
• Over 8,000 Americans have died as a result of heat-related afflictions during the past two decades, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

What’s in the ‘Senior Summer Survival Kit?’

• Reusable water bottle to maintain hydration
• Copies of all prescriptions and health insurance cards
• Phone numbers of health care providers and information concerning chronic health problems
• Sunscreen, at least SPF 30, to prevent serious burns
• Multivitamins to keep the immune systems strong
• Battery operated/hand-held fan in case of power outages and extreme heat

The Senior Summer Survival Kit can be easily purchased and assembled for under $25 in less than 15 minutes.

“Most heat-related issues for seniors can be avoided through simple planning and precaution,” Ross says. “When it’s unbearably hot outside for you and your kids, it’s downright dangerous for seniors. Take a few minutes and make sure that mom, dad and any other senior family members have everything they need to be safe this summer. A few minutes of planning and a quick trip to the drug store can make all the difference.”

Media Contact:  Jack Hoffman, (732) 993-6991, JHoffman@seniorhelpers.com

For more information about Senior Helpers, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409

# # #

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Eldercare of Central New Jersey Warns Local Seniors of Dehydration Risks During Summer

It’s a serious health issue affecting millions of aging Americans each year  – but more times than not, it’s also easily avoidable. As the dog days of summer are quickly setting in, the thermometer continues to rise and the threat of dehydration for seniors looms larger and larger.

Locally, Senior Helpers is raising awareness to help seniors avoid the medical problems and hospitalizations that are a direct result of dehydration. These cases continue to make headlines every year, but they don’t have to.

Seniors are bombarded with lists of things they can do to decrease their risk of health issues like heart attack, stroke and Alzheimer’s, but dehydration is among the most common, most serious dangers that’s easily forgotten. Seniors are particularly susceptible to dehydration because they don’t drink or eat as much as younger people and their bodies don’t retain as much water to begin with. This means that elderly individuals typically take in less fluid over the course of the day and lose it more quickly, which is a dangerous combination, particularly in the summer.

A recent study by the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research found that seniors are far more likely to experience adverse health effects related to dehydration than younger people. The report shows the average adult loses more than ten cups of water per day and states that thirst isn’t always a reliable gauge of the body’s need for water, especially among older adults who have less acute senses.

Most times, dehydration can be easily prevented by paying attention to simple dietary measures and looking out for early warning signs. According to the Mayo Foundation, some of the most telling signs of dehydration include:

• Dizziness
• Blurred Vision
• Dry, sticky mouth
• Unusual sleepiness or tired feelings
• Decreased urine output
• Muscle weakness
• Sudden or persistent headaches

The hottest days of summer may still be to come.  Our professional caregivers are helping seniors living on their own every day to make sure they are properly hydrated and doing all they can to stay healthy and happy through these long, hot summer days. If you have an aging loved one in the area, make sure they have the help and the resources they need to beat the heat.”

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Senior Care of Central New Jersey Urges Families to Help Seniors Be Sun Smart

Memorial Day may be the start of summer in everyone’s minds, but its June that brings the official start. Remember the summer solstice on June 21^st, the longest day of the year.  Either way, the month of June brings with it picnics, trips to the beach, the park, and a long list of summer fun. The summer sun is meant to be enjoyed but it can be a dangerous threat especially for senior citizens.  That’s why Senior Helpers reminds seniors and their loved ones to become sun smart.

While sunshine is healthy, too much sun is dangerous, especially for seniors.  Don’t forget, a suntan is your skin’s way of showing damage.  The deeper the tan the more sun damage there is and the more the skin is trying to protect itself.

Times have changed when it comes to people’s thinking about the sun.  That deep, dark tan is no longer viewed as a good thing.  Plus, there are plenty of misconceptions about the summer sun.  So Senior Helpers, following the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, compiled this list of sun safety myths and senior sun safety tips.

Sun Myth #1: Seniors need constant sun to supply vitamin D.

Seniors only need about 15 minutes or less of sun exposure two to three times a week on their faces and hands for their bodies to produce an adequate supply of Vitamin D.  Vitamin D can also be found in foods and in multivitamins. Seniors should always wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothing that cover their skin when they are in the sun.

Sun Myth #2: Seniors only need to apply sunscreen once a day

Sunscreen needs time to work.  Seniors should apply it about an hour before going out into the sun and reapply about every two hours.  They should reapply more frequently if they are swimming.  They should use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause tanning and wrinkling while UVB rays cause sunburn, aging, wrinkling and skin cancer.  Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 15. Use SPF 30 or higher if you have a history of skin cancer or have fair skin.  The risk for cancer increases as you get older. Seniors should especially pay attention to moles and other skin abnormalities.

Sun Myth #3: Seniors only need sunscreen at the pool or beach

Seniors should wear sunscreen everywhere if they go outside longer than 15 minutes.  Seniors need to exercise but to avoid too much sun they can walk in malls, casinos, or museums.

Sun Myth #4: The sun isn’t a problem on cloudy days.

The sun doesn’t feel as hot when it’s cloudy but the UVA and UVB rays that tan and burn your skin are still shining down and being absorbed.  Seniors’ skin is more sensitive. The sun’s rays are more intense in the summer so even on a cloudy day seniors should still wear sunscreen and sun protection.

Sun Myth #5: There’s nothing seniors can do if they get sunburn

The bad news is that’s partially true.  The CDC recommends aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain, headache and fever.  When seniors are exposed to too much sun they’re at severe risk for dehydration. They should drink six to eight glasses of water a day and eat fresh fruits and vegetables.  They can also take a cool bath and use an aloe cream to moisturize skin.

Sun Myth #6: Sunburn is the only sun problem seniors should worry about

The sun can also hurt your eyes.  The UV rays can cause cataracts, macular degeneration and skin cancer around the eyes.  Seniors should always wear sunglasses.  Choose brown, gray or green lenses and the darker and larger the lens the better.  Seniors should choose glasses that wrap around their eyes and block a high percentage of UV rays.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

***Source: CDC

Easy Decorating Ideas for a Senior-Friendly Home Brought to You by Senior Helpers In Home Care of Central New Jersey

The right interior design decisions can help keep you safe and independent for a longer time and they don’t have to be difficult or costly to implement.

Lighten Up
As we age we need more light to see properly. So, lighting is an important factor not only to do the hobbies we enjoy, but also as a safety factor. Be sure all light switches work so that you don’t have to walk any distance in darkness to reach them.

Brighten Up with Color
Paint is relatively inexpensive and can make a dramatic difference in brightening up your space. The right colors can make spaces appear larger or smaller, and help you achieve whichever effect you seek. You can play tricks with contrasting colors for trim and ceilings. Check out magazines and websites that offer simple decorating tips.

De-clutter
Too many accessories simply take up space and make cleaning harder and more time-consuming. Reduce the number of indoor plants and collectibles. Consider gifting a cherished item to a loved one who will appreciate receiving it now. Think of the pleasure it will bring you to give it. For those items you must keep that don’t have to be on display, find storage solutions that are easy for you to reach, lift, and use. Numerous inexpensive and attractive options are available in the market.

Create a Haven
Whether in your own home or living with others, carve out a space that is all yours and where you can truly relax. Furnish it with your favorite comfy chair or electronic media so that you can escape to your own retreat.

How Senior Helpers can Help

Senior Helpers offers the following services that can help keep your aging loved one’s home safe and cozy.

• Meal Planning & Preparation
• Light Housekeeping
• Laundry
• Help with Bills/Mail
• Ironing
• Change Linens & Bed Making
• Supervise Home Maintenance
• Organize Closets & Pantries
• Care for Plants
• Monitor Food Freshness
• Wash Dishes
• Vacuuming
• Coordinate Home Services

About Senior Helpers

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Health Care of Central New Jersey Reveals Hidden Gift from Congress Families Don’t Know About

New, buried gem in health care reform helps Americans pay for elderly care

June 7, 2010 – It made few headlines, caused precious little debate and most families don’t even know about it. But, hidden in the health care overhaul, Congress gave America a little gift that could save families big in the end. It’s called the CLASS Act (Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act), the nation’s first public long-term care insurance program that deducts from Americans’ paychecks now to pay later for the often crushing costs of long-term care.

Why the CLASS Act?

Currently, an estimated 10 million Americans have trouble performing daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing and eating, and most of these people live at home, not in nursing homes or other institutions. Yet, most are painfully unprepared to pay for non-medical care that is not typically covered by Medicare or Medicaid.

“This is where CLASS Act truly saves the day,” says Peter Ross, CEO of Senior Helpers, the nation’s fastest growing provider of in-home senior care. “We find that the vast majority of people need some kind of long-term help but they don’t save for it. This is an easy way to help Americans save for their future that won’t take a huge bite out of their paychecks.”

Who would use the CLASS Act?

Any working person over the age of 18 can receive long-term care benefits from CLASS once they have paid premiums for five years (and have actively worked for three of those five).   Once a person loses the ability to perform a number of daily living activities like dressing, bathing and eating, they can become eligible to receive benefits.

“Young people sometimes assume they are going to be healthy all their lives, and that’s not at all the case,” says 92-year-old Robert Bard of Phoenix, Ariz., who pays for a Senior Helpers caregiver to live in his home and help him round the clock, seven days per week. “I’ve had some injuries and health problems in the past, and I couldn’t live on my own now. I didn’t do much planning ahead for what I’d need or think much about the cost years ago, but I need in-home care and couldn’t get along without it.”

What is the CLASS Act?

• The bill was signed into law in late March as a part of the health care package – it will take effect Jan. 1, 2011.
• The CLASS Act will allow all working people over 18 to opt in through automatic payroll deductions that will later pay for long-term care if they need it.
• All participants must pay premiums for a five year “vesting” period and be actively at work for 3 of those years before receiving benefits.
• Once a person becomes eligible to receive benefits, they will continue to receive benefits for as long as they need long-term care, whether they are elderly with health problems and will only need assistance for 3 years or 25 and have a snowboarding accident that causes them to need care for 60 years.
• Premiums have not been officially decided, but estimated monthly premiums range from $61 to $123 a month to receive about $75 dollars a day (no less than $50) in benefits. The cost of premiums will vary and change over time as participation changes – the more people participate, the less each person will have to pay.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Health Care of Central New Jersey Joins the Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer’s Early Detection Alliance

Here at Senior Helpers, we would like let you know about our participation in the Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer’s Early Detection Alliance (AEDA). Senior Helpers has become a “Champion” with the AEDA and is working to spread the word about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s.

The AEDA is an Alzheimer’s Association national outreach campaign focusing on the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease. The goal is to raise awareness of the disease’s warning signs and for organizations to turn to the Alzheimer’s Association as the center for help and hope.

By becoming an AEDA “Champion,” we agree to disseminate educational information to our clients through various on-line activation opportunities provided by the Alzheimer’s Association. This includes placing the AEDA logo on our website (see it here at http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409), distributing the information on the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s and more.

Joining the AEDA was an easy decision for us at Senior Helpers because of our commitment to educating and helping the senior community. We are glad to be in a position to aid the AEDA in its efforts to spread the word on the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s. This is important to the senior community and their loved ones in order to combat this devastating disease. We look forward to working with our clients to help the approximately 5.3 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s Association 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease:

1. Memory changes that disrupt daily life

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks

4. Confusion with time or place

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

8. Decreased or poor judgment

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

10. Changes in mood and personality

To learn more about the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease, contact the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org/10signs or 877-IS-IT-ALZ.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. For more information, visit www.alz.org.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Health Care of Central New Jersey Helps Seniors Stay Mentally Sharp in Old Age

Leading in-home care provider promotes “Brainy Day Activities” to Central New Jersey’s elderly population

Somerset, New Jersey (June 1, 2010) – “I hate to say it, but I think our parents are starting to slip.” Thousands of conversations across Central New Jersey start this way each year. Maybe it’s a forgotten appointment and a missed family birthday, or maybe it’s misplaced medication and a strange lapse in judgment. Unfortunately, as elderly loved ones age, some amount of cognitive change is almost bound to happen. But thanks to a new service, local seniors don’t have to let their minds fade without a fight.

Senior Helpers, a national leading in-home care provider with an office in Somerset, New Jersey, is now providing Brainy Day Activities to help clients keep their minds sharp in the face of the aging process.

“Just like exercise for the body helps muscles, bones, and blood vessels stay strong, seniors need to give their minds a workout to keep the brain active,” said Jack Hoffman, with Senior Helpers of Central New Jersey (NJ). “Elderly individuals with early stage dementia and other cognitive problems start to lose their ability to solve problems and maintain emotional control. This is a problem seniors can do something about, and they don’t need to see a specialist or a doctor to get started. We go right to their home and use these activities to help them work their mind.”

The Brainy Day Activity Program consists of 64 different games designed to meet the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional needs of individuals suffering from or showing signs of memory loss – including card games, board games, problem-solving, and recognition activities. Senior Helpers caregivers are trained and instructed on how to properly use the games to engage individuals at any stage of dementia with fun, unique, stimulating interaction.

Consider these facts about aging, Alzheimer’s, and dementia:

• Currently, more than five million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s (Alzheimer’s Association).
• Analysts estimate in five years 7.7 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s and by 2050 that number will more than double to 16 million (Alzheimer’s Association).
• About 13 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s, and half of those over age 85 will develop Alzheimer’s or a closely related form of dementia (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
• Working out the brain with complex mental activity can reduce the risk of dementia by up to 46 percent (University of New South Wales research study).

“The statistics tell the story,” said Hoffman. “Using your brain often is the best way to ward off dementia and keep the mind working and healthy. The brain games and exercises our caregivers do with clients are great ways to keep our aging loved ones sharp and alert.”

Brainy Day Games were created by Mary Ann Frederick, a nationally certified activity director with almost 20 years of experience working with seniors and individuals with dementia.

Media Contact:  Jack Hoffman, (732) 993-6991, JHoffman@seniorhelpers.com

For more information about Senior Helpers, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409

# # #

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Leading Senior Care Expert Featured on FOX News’ Strategy Room | Senior Helpers In Home Health Care of Central New Jersey (NJ)

National newscast profiles Senior Helpers CEO for advice on caring for aging moms

Leading senior care expert Peter Ross was a featured guest on FOX News’ Strategy Room on the pre-Mother’s Day, May 7, 2010 show. Ross is the founder and CEO of Senior Helpers and was called on as an expert to discuss the subject of caring and planning ahead for aging parents.

Peter Ross, CEO, Senior Helpers

Ross talked about his own experience with his mom and provided insight, guidance and advice for the millions of Americans facing questions about how to care for their parents as they grow older. Part of the discussion centered on Senior Helpers Navigator™, a new concept offering families a one-stop shop for services related to elderly care.

“It’s an honor to be invited onto a national stage to speak about a subject very dear to my own heart,” said Ross. “My own experiences helped to start Senior Helpers and are part of what led to the creation of Navigator, an entirely new service being piloted right now that will ease the burden on millions of Americans charged with caring for aging loved ones.”

“Providing care for parents who can no longer do it all on their own can be a scary thing if you’re not prepared,” Ross added. “It’s important to approach the subject and have those talks before immediate help is needed. They may not be the easiest conversations to have, but it’s vital for families to be on the same page and have a plan before something happens and you don’t know where to turn.”

FOX News’ Strategy Room is a live daily newscast targeted to a national audience. The web-based program features commentary on the day’s top stories as well as a variety of hour-long shows and prominent guests to cover topics like business, health, technology and entertainment.

The interview can be found online at http://live.foxnews.com/strategy-room/morning-click#/v/4183596/caring-for-our-aging-moms/?playlist_id=86978.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

From Senior Helpers In Home Health Care of Central New Jersey (NJ): 10 Signs that a Senior Relative or Neighbor Needs Help

Watching your once active parents or other relative decline into someone who needs constant care is heartbreaking and overwhelming. But with 36 million seniors living in the U.S. and the elderly population projected to double, caring for a senior loved one is a reality most people will face. That’s why at Senior Helpers we advise family members to learn the signs your senior relative needs assistance.

It’s much better to arrange for help for an elderly family member while they can still be part of the process rather than during a crisis because it gives everyone time to make thoughtful decisions. Seniors often believe getting help means being moved out of their house and that’s where the resistance to any kind of help comes in, but many times in-home care is a better option.

At Senior Helpers we encourage people to remember to respect a senior family member’s pride and dignity when discussing the need for assistance. Approach the topic with respect and understanding and express concern for the family member’s safety. The warning signs could be an indication of many issues so if there is a concern it is important to contact a doctor.

10 Warning Signs a Senior Relative Needs Assistance

• The house is cold, the telephone is cut off.
• Losing track in a conversation, forgetting the names of children, grandchildren, the day of the week, etc.
• The death of a spouse.
• The refrigerator and cupboards are half empty even though you know the relative can still get out.
• Personal hygiene is poor.
• Constantly making excuses when asked to go somewhere or do something, or wanting to be alone.
• Sudden weight loss.
• Never cleaning or delaying home repairs.
• Failure to take prescribed medications.
• Behavior changes.

The best way to keep track of a senior family members situation is to keep in touch with them and this is one time where being nosy is justified. Visit or call often and use one of the warning signs as a way to approach the topic if needed.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.

Senior Helpers In Home Care of Central New Jersey Talks About Living With Parkinson’s Disease

Living With Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the brain that affects the transmission of messages to the muscles. It is characterized by tremor, stiffness of the muscles, and difficulty in initiating movements. Over one million Americans have Parkinson’s disease. It occurs most often in later life, but can also affect younger people. It is a progressive disease, which means that it normally worsens over time. It usually, but not always, develops slowly.

No one knows what causes Parkinson’s disease. Certain “Parkinson-like symptoms” can result from the side effects of some drug therapies, or can be caused by conditions such as brain tumor, arterial disease, viral encephalitis, stroke, or head injury.

What Are the Symptoms?

For now, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. But with early diagnosis and an effective plan of treatment, the symptoms of the disease can often be controlled or lessened. Treatment varies widely for each individual, and may include:

• Medication therapy-A number of drugs can help control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The choice of correct drug or drugs, the dosage, the method of taking medication, and the risk of side effects of drugs vary from person to person, requiring careful physician supervision.
• Rehabilitative therapy-Physical, occupational and speech therapists can assess the person’s abilities and needs, and provide exercises to help maintain the highest possible range of motion, muscle tone, balance and flexibility, and communication ability.
• Lifestyle alterations-Exercise helps maintain muscle tone and strength. Diet is important for nutrition, for maintaining an appropriate weight, and because protein level may be a factor in the person’s condition. Rest and stress reduction are also important.
• Support groups and counseling are available to help the person deal with the social and emotional impact of Parkinson’s disease.

For More Information

The National Parkinson Foundation website offers information and resources about treatment, support and research.

About Senior Helpers:

Senior Helpers provides many in- home, caregiving services for the elderly in Bridgewater, Edison, Piscataway, Hillsborough, Somerset, Somerville and neighboring towns.  We offer extensive in-home care services for seniors who embrace their independence and the personal dignity that goes with it.  Our in-home care services are provided by bonded and insured caregivers all of whom pass a national background check.

If a senior family member needs in-home care services in Somerset, Mercer, Hunterdon, Warren or W. Middlesex Counties, NJ, we are an excellent choice with exemplary references.  In home health care is the compassionate choice for your elderly loved ones’ continued independent living. We promise we will do our best to make it a positive experience for them and you.  For more information, please visit: http://seniorhelpers.com/location/3409.