Dec 20, 2017 | Senior Help
Did you know just under 20% of victims who reported identity theft to the Identity Theft Assistance Center were ages 60 and over? Unfortunately the identity theft of senior citizens is becoming a more common occurrence in the United States reaching all time highs in recent years. To make matters worse, identity theft rates skyrocket during the holidays. Help us protect your loved ones this holiday season by taking a moment to talk with them about their risks and identity theft prevention. Identity Theft Prevention Tips Seniors tend to be a more trusting group of individuals and that makes them more likely to give out important numbers and other information to mystery callers, or even let strangers in the house. Here are a few helpful tips about identity theft prevention to share when you speak with your loved ones. If someone unexpectedly visits, ask for identification before letting them in. Even with service or delivery people. If you are the least bit concerned, call the company to verify that it is in fact their representative. Regardless of age it’s extremely easy to get caught up in investment schemes, funeral scams, and/or home improvement scams. Do not make quick decisions. Take time and get a second opinion. Always be suspicious of phone solicitors who ask for any personal information such as your address, credit card number, social security number, or checking account numbers. If someone asks for personal information hang up immediately. If you have additional tips or other comments about the article we would love to hear from you in the comments below. Have a safe Christmas and a Happy New Year! ...
Sep 24, 2014 | Uncategorized
There are several ways to create a more accessible space for a person in a wheelchair. Some options include: altering an existing floor plan, building an addition, converting existing rooms, or buying a new home. The following guidelines will be helpful to anyone planning for wheelchair accessible housing. Always measure the width and length of your wheelchair since there are many different sizes. The dimensions listed below refer to standard wheelchairs. Owners of power and reclining models may need to modify the measurements based on the length and width of the chair. It is important to identify specific needs. Entrance and Exit Parking: If you use a garage, make sure the entrance is high enough for a raised roof van and wide enough to allow the use of a wheelchair lift or to make an easy wheelchair transfer. Approximately eight feet is needed for a wheelchair lift and five feet of space is needed for a transfer from the wheelchair. Illustration of optimal parking space dimensions–cars/vans Specifications for a ramp or pathway to entrance • 36 to 48” wide pathways • 32 to 36” high hand rails that extend 1′ beyond ramp • Slip resistant surface (non–slip strips, indoor/outdoor carpeting, sand paint) • Covering for inclement weather • Ramp materials: wood, concrete expanded aluminum • 12” of ramp for every 1” of vertical rise • Free swinging (no spring or hydraulic mechanism) • ½” or less threshold edge height • Option: electric entrance door opener • If a ramp is longer than 30 feet, it needs to change direction. With a change of direction, a level platform or landing...
Aug 29, 2014 | Health, Medical Assistance
Dementia comes with its obstacles; bathing, walking, household chores and others, but no one would think about eating. As Dementia and Alzheimer’s progress the mobility required during meal time slowly slips away. The ability to hold a fork, pass the potatoes and chew food may also diminish. A person with dementia may refuse to eat food or may spit food out. This may be because they dislike the food, are trying to communicate about the food being too hot, or being unsure what to do with the food. The person with dementia may become angry or agitated or exhibit challenging behaviour during mealtimes. This can happen for a variety of reasons; such as frustration at any difficulties they are having, feeling rushed, or even the environment they are in. They may not want to accept assistance with eating. Try not to rush the person with dementia, and help them maintain as much independence as possible. If a person is agitated or distressed, do not put pressure on them to eat or drink. Wait until the person is calm and less anxious. Not only will the fine motor skills diminish, but the ability to sense temperature diminishes along with swallowing (called dysphagia). If your loved one is having difficulty with swallowing, a referral to a speech and language therapist can help. Some problems can include holding food in the mouth, continuous chewing, and leaving harder-to-chew foods (eg hard vegetables) on the plate. Be aware, issues such as weight loss, malnutrition and dehydration can also be consequences of swallowing difficulties. To learn more,...
Aug 15, 2014 | Quotes and Inspiration
For today’s blog…we just wanted to share an adorable video we found on YouTube. It’s not really meant to explain or demonstrate anything other than putting a large smile on your face. Go out there and be...