MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'caregiver support'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:31:04 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952835&cid=t_140776_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2FNd54fULlfIg%2F The following is a guest post by Kathy N. Johnson, PhD, CMC. Dr Johnson is a Certified Geriatric Care Manager, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Home Care Assistance. She holds a Doctorate in Psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology.  Kathy co-authored the book, Happy to 102: The Best Kept Secrets to a Long and Happy Life, based on the ground breaking Okinawa Centenarian Study, which spells out precisely what it takes to delay or escape Alzheimer’s and other chronic diseases, as well as how to slow the aging process. By Dr. Kathy Johnson. Family members who provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aging parent make up almost 30% of the U.S. population. The majority are women, ages 40-65, and they spend an average of 20 hours per week in hands-on care givin... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952835 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:30:55 +0100 4952835 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218639&cid=t_140776_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2009%2F02%2F26%2Ftwelve-tips-for-friends-family%2F A comment on my Twelve Tips for Cancer Patients entry deserved a more prominent placement. By John Mark Eberhart, husband to the late Sherri Eberhart: Twelve Tips for the Friends & Family of Cancer Patients 1. You are NOT sick. No matter how understanding you think you are, you can’t comprehend this disease till it is IN YOU. 2. You, too, will be tired, sad. Remember: No matter how bad you feel, your spouse/parent/child/friend feels worse. 3. You will find your chores crowd out your old interests. If you truly love the person, you won’t care much. 4. You will hear lots of advice on how to care for someone with cancer. 99.9 percent of it is nonsense. 5. You, too, will lose friends. Especially the ones who look for blessings on your behalf as you watch your loved one suffer or die. C... Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218639 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:44:54 +0100 2218639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013910&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F12%2Fhealthy-caregiving-minute-of-tips.html (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2013910 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 03:24:00 +0100 2013910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1906250&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fguest-post-from-life-coach-scott.html Ever read a legal document and turn a page and all it has on the page is the phrase "This Space Left Intentionally Blank" centered on the page? I think I know why writers of legal documents do that. It got me thinking about caregiving.What if, in the flow of caregiving, we were to designate certain times that are "intentionally blank"? These would be times when we unplug COMPLETELY from the world around us; times when we pull away from the caregiving and purposefully do nothing. If we do this we can greatly increase our capacity for perspective. We can re-energize. We can renew. Then, when the "blank time" is over, we can get back to the business of caregiving with a new sense of vision and excitement.Are you doing this already? Great!If you haven't considered "Intentionally Blank" times l... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1906250 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:47:00 +0100 1906250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1895707&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F10%2Fcaregivers-insight-putting-yourself-in.html Caregivers who provide one to one hands-on care know their efforts to help will sometimes be rebuffed and the reasons may be a puzzle. Sometimes the care-receiver is in denial and simply does not want to deal with issues at the moment. Or, accepting assistance may seem to be a threat to one's independence, freedom, privacy, or dominance. Sometimes, believing that one must tackle the challenges of life alone may cause someone to turn away from those who care. Rejection is not the issue, but independence and perceived threats to one's self-image may be the reasons.Some people may feel "suffocated" by a caregiver who is hovering, especially if they are accustomed to privacy and independence. Or, someone may feel he or she is no longer "in charge" of their personal life. When one is dependent ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1895707 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:14:00 +0100 1895707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1683134&cid=t_140776_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FgYdKTCh-9TM%2F AlzheimersNotes.com When I mentioned previously my idea of starting a Tea Time at Alzheimer’s Notes, where I’d chat with visitors, through their comments or e-mails, I realized this was a tradition typical of my family and one we continued with Mother in the nursing home. Sitting down to a cup of tea (or coffee for my aunts) runs through my memories of visiting my grandmother at her farm.  Every afternoon at 3:00, we stopped what we were doing, took a break and had a chat over tea and snacks.  Mother was ready to offer visitors a cup of tea when they stopped by our farm home, too. Tea Time During Alzheimer’s Years When I began helping Mother during her beginning Alzheimer’s years, first on the ajenda when I arrived from my home 275 miles away, was sitting down ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1683134 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:59:53 +0100 1683134 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1594066&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D100 Since a reverse mortgage is essentially a loan against the money a home owner age 62 and older has already paid into the equity of the home, the income a senior receives from a reverse mortgage loan is tax free. The income (equity buyout) paid to a senior home owner can be received at almost any frequency the borrower prefers. The income payments can be received in installments on a monthly basis, lump sum payments upfront or on regular scheduled intervals, or a combination of payment arrangements. How you receive your income payments from a reverse mortgage can be affected by many factors. These factors include: 1. Why you need the money. Depending on Why You Think You Need a Reverse Mortgage the urgency of your need may influence the way you receive your money. However, if your home is ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1594066 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 21:01:24 +0100 1594066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1594067&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D99 A reverse mortgage is an avenue for additional income for seniors age 62 and older. While the income is far from “free money,” a reverse mortgage does not require any work on the senior’s part. The biggest responsibility for a would-be reverse mortgage borrower is researching the reverse mortgage beforehand and ensure they do not default on the loan. The income from a reverse mortgage can be used by a senior borrower for any purpose. The mortgage income can help with daily living needs, health and medical care expenses, legal expenses, home management, and paying for other life needs. Key to maximizing the use and purpose of a reverse mortgage is to develop a senior budget to make reverse mortgage income last. One major talking point in reverse mortgage commercials is paying for th... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1594067 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:40:45 +0100 1594067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1501513&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F06%2Fguest-post-servingstrongcom-s-scott.html I remember it like it was yesterday. I was a young teenager. I was on my way home from my girlfriend's house. She lived about an hour away. I had seen the oil light come on at the dashboard days before. I just figured I would get more oil when I got the chance. Besides, the light would go out occasionally. So I thought I had more time.But on my way home from my girlfriend's house that day, the light came on and stayed on. I was still 20 minutes from home. "I'll take care of it when I get home," I reasoned with myself (and unfortunately, self agreed.)Then this terrible banging started. It was loud. It wouldn't stop. I drove home with the sound. It seemed to get worse as I accelerated. Long story short -- I blew the entire engine of my Honda Civic. The loud banging sound I heard was the engi... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1501513 Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:30:00 +0100 1501513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1450466&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D90 Increasingly the number of grandparents who function as primary caregivers to children under age 21 is increasing. Grandparents are increasingly becoming parents to young children. Whether biological parents are removed due to drug use, criminal prosecution, or simple abandonment, grandparents who function as parents have a lot to deal with in caring for a young grandchild. The AARP Foundation Grandparent Information Center is a valuable resource to grandparents who function as parents. AARP (The American Association of Retired Persons) offers a wealth of information for families and the GIC Local Grandparent Support Database is among its least well-known resources. The database essentially connects grandparents to local third party resources that provide support for the challenges grand... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1450466 Sun, 18 May 2008 10:50:28 +0100 1450466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1446566&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D89 Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a fatal, progressive and degenerative brain disease that has no known cure. Most people have never heard of PSP. I spoke with two women within a matter of weeks in my local practice whose spouses were diagnosed with PSP. Neither of them had previously received information about the existence of the Society for PSP or local support resources for families coping with PSP. The society for PSP is a necessary resource for families managing supranuclear palsy. If you have PSP or are a caregiver to someone with PSP, please connect with the Society for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. They will be able to help you connect with support groups in your local area. Due to the progressive nature of PSP, long-term care planning is highly recommended. You can contact The Socie... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1446566 Fri, 16 May 2008 03:35:51 +0100 1446566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1443304&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D89 Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a fatal, progressive and degenerative brain disease that has no known cure. Most people have never heard of PSP. I spoke with two women within a matter of weeks in my local practice whose spouses were diagnosed with PSP. Neither of them had previously received information about the existence of the Society for PSP or local support resources for families coping with PSP. The society for PSP is a necessary resource for families managing supranuclear palsy. If you have PSP or are a caregiver to someone with PSP, please connect with the Society for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. They will be able to help you connect with support groups in your local area. Due to the progressive nature of PSP, long-term care planning is highly recommended. You can contact The Socie... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1443304 Thu, 15 May 2008 04:35:49 +0100 1443304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440211&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D86 Meals on Wheels Association of America The Meals on Wheels Association offers delivered meals to seniors who continue to live in the community. The meals are delivered in various frequencies and meet nutritional and some disease specific guidelines. The local programs are often administered through churches, health care organizations and food pantries. To find a Meals on Wheels center go online to www.mowaa.org or call Meals on Wheels at (703) 545-5558 to locate a local meals on wheels provider near you. When calling to request meal services ask if the provider can accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. For example, inquire about renal or cardiac diets. I have recommended meals on wheels for many years and it is a great resoure for seniors who are unable to grocery shop, unable... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440211 Tue, 13 May 2008 21:28:47 +0100 1440211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440212&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D85 For some, this is the worst idea you’ve ever heard! You may be asking yourself “Why in the world would I EVER do that?” Frankly, because it could be a win-win situation. Granted, if absence from your family makes the heart grow fonder by all means, let love rule. But, if you have an open and amorous relationship with your parents, even when you see them regularly, moving in might be a good thing. Let me tell you why. Having a parent move in or vice versa can be best if you are a long-distance caregiver or if one or both of you are struggling to manage the cost of living alone. For caregivers who live long-distance from their aging loved one the cost of travel can be prohibitive. With fuel, food, and care costs rising significantly, having multiple generations in a home has significa... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440212 Tue, 13 May 2008 16:06:24 +0100 1440212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440213&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D84 I am fascinated by many things. Well to be accurate, I’m perplexed by some, awed by others, and for better or worse I’m amazed by the rest. One of the events that I find fascinating is the token celebration. You know- the event/occasion/or person we celebrate on a designated day, week, or month. I can appreciate the merit of having a time of distinction for people, places, and events that have value. Parents, civil rights, secretaries (I mean administrative professionals), and hotdogs (yes there actually is a hotdog day). Truly, I get it-“demonstrate value by remembrance and recognition.” To be honest, like everybody else, I overeat and buy random presents because I’m supposed to. More important than the gift or dinner, I enjoy the time spent focusing on the reason for the cele... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440213 Tue, 13 May 2008 01:42:13 +0100 1440213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1440214&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D87 The American Cancer Society offers free lodging (Hope Houses) when cancer survivors need treatment in another state. A Hope House provides a place for families to live temporarily while a loved one receives cancer treatment. The Society also provides assistance getting insurance even with a cancer diagnosis. Many insurance companies will not approve an insurance policy for a person with a diagnosis of cancer because it is considered a non covered preexisting condition. The ACS works with cancer survivors and their families to get insurance coverage. The Amercian Cancer Society helpline is available 24/7 including holidays and can be reached by calling (800) 227-2345. (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1440214 Sun, 11 May 2008 20:39:36 +0100 1440214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1433970&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D81 May is Older Americans Month. In honor of this special occasion, Pope Institute for Health and Education is offering another free consultation giveaway this year. We are providing $10,000 worth of free consultation time for seniors and caregivers. No Purchase Necessary. To register for the event visit www.popeinstitute.com and click the blue register logo in the upper right corner or click the register logo on the right side of this blog. The consultation time will be awarded on a first come first served basis and there are a limited number of available times. The giveaway will continue on a weekly basis throughout the month of May. Visit www.popeinstitute.com for terms and registration details. This opportunity is available nationwide. Reserve your preferred consultation time by registe... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1433970 Sat, 10 May 2008 02:13:58 +0100 1433970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1432944&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D80 Everyone in a specialty or professional environment has a particular jargon and terminology that sounds like a foreign language to listeners not familiar with that industry. Financial professions, health care professionals, educators, and legal professionals have industry dialects that confuse even the most enlightened consumers. Given our focus on elder care and long-term care, every week we provide insight into terms from those industries that can leave people saying “Can you repeat that?” This week’s alphabet soup is Assisted Living Assisted Living (A.L./AL) A supported living environment that provides room and board in addition to personal care support. Some support services are purchased separate from the room and board contract. Assisted living facilities usually provide pers... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1432944 Sat, 10 May 2008 00:40:01 +0100 1432944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1432945&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D77 In April 2008 the world’s oldest person (Edna Parker born in 1893) turned 115. Can you imagine being 115 years old? I am approaching 40 faster than I can believe and I cannot imagine living to be 115 years of age. Today I was talking with a woman who is 92 years of age. She drives her own car, wears one hearing aide due to mild hearing impairment, does not wear glasses, and lives in a supported living environment. I was telling her about another woman who was approaching 103. Even the 92 year old thought that was old! To live to be over 100 years of age is truly something. To live to be 115 is incredible and begs the question; How’d she do that? After working in the senior care arena for so long, the word “old” has new definition for me. Seventy is young to me now... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1432945 Fri, 09 May 2008 02:49:23 +0100 1432945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1426928&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D74 I love America. Specifically, I love American ideals and the extent that we Americans are willing to commit our lives, blood, and treasure toward the fulfillment of those ideals for every man, woman and child. Truly, America is great. But… Do you hear what I hear? I hear a chorus… A plea from across the land…it says…”Will the Greatest Nation in the World Please Standup?” “We know you’re out there. We know you hear us. Please stand up. Where are you? What are you waiting for? Try as we might, we can’t wait much longer.” You’ve stood up for (more…) (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1426928 Wed, 07 May 2008 03:11:54 +0100 1426928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1419709&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D73 If you ask your average middle class senior about applying for Medicaid they would probably say something to the effect that they have “plenty” of resources. Wrong! Maybe they have plenty for having no monthly car note and living in a house bought and paid for 20 years ago. Without a car or mortgage payment, most of us would be doing really well. But, I can assure you, unless you are wealthy, you are not as well off as you think. When I say wealthy, I’m talking multi-hundred thousand dollarnaire at least (in liquid assets). Most retired seniors are a hip fracture, stroke, or heart attack away from the poor house. It’s not the hospital bill that gets you; though, have you seen the cost of a hospital aspirin? It’s not the subsequent rehabilitation stay either. Medicare, which over... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1419709 Mon, 05 May 2008 03:39:33 +0100 1419709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1419359&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D72 1) First you have to realize that most people in the health care industry are not going to give you the unvarnished truth about nursing homes. And to be frank, “you can’t handle the truth.” The truth about nursing homes is so startling that were it spoke aloud, your head would explode, the sky would rend, and all manner of natural disasters would commence. So know that even when you hear the worst of the stories about nursing homes there is still a layer of sugar. The whole truth is far too difficult to swallow. Even the people who work in that industry have to ignore much of what they see. How else could they continue? 2) There are few great nursing homes out there, but there are many good people who work in them. I’ve worked in many facilities in different parts of the cou... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1419359 Sat, 03 May 2008 21:19:55 +0100 1419359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1417953&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D72 Five Truths No One Else Will Ever Tell You About Nursing Homes 1) First you have to realize that most people in the health care industry are not going to give you the unvarnished truth about nursing homes. And to be frank, “you can’t handle the truth.” The truth about nursing homes is so startling that were it spoke aloud, your head would explode, the sky would rend, and all manner of natural disasters would commence. So know that even when you hear the worst of the stories about nursing homes there is still a layer of sugar. The whole truth is far too difficult to swallow. Even the people who work in that industry have to ignore much of what they see. How else could they continue? 2) There are few great nursing homes out there, but there are many good people who work in them. ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1417953 Sat, 03 May 2008 04:35:34 +0100 1417953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1417954&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D71 A Two Step Process for Improving the Quality of Your Health Care: Step 1: Get Pissed Off Step 2: Don’t Take it Anymore. What I am about to say may be painful to hear but just know; this is going to hurt me more than it is going to hurt you… Are you ready? I have to tell you, “Health Care Sucks Because You Keep Buying It!” That’s right, health care sucks because you keep forking over your insurance card and writing those co-payment checks for service that is subpar and frankly just sucks. “Wait a minute,” you say, “I’m not a doctor or an insurance company. How is any of this mess my fault?”, “I don’t understand the health care system and they are supposed to take care of me as a patient.” Seriously? You still think the health care system works that way? I know yo... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1417954 Fri, 02 May 2008 22:43:31 +0100 1417954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1367045&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D66 Sign up for the free Pope Institute e-mail newletter by clicking the image. The newsletter provides tips, news, and senior information. (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1367045 Fri, 11 Apr 2008 18:03:15 +0100 1367045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1362527&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D62 I am always cautious about safety in parking lots when shopping alone. What this elderly woman experienced is what most women fear when shopping alone. A would be robber jumps into the passenger side of an elderly woman’s car. She had just finished grocery shopping when the man entered her car, said he had a gun, and request all of her money. She said “no”, and that is not the most incredible part of the video… WOW! does not begin to describe her courage and faith. This story comes from Action News 5 in Memphis Tennessee. (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1362527 Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:10:34 +0100 1362527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1353085&cid=t_140776_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F264889600%2F AlzheimersNotes.com   ”I can’t do this another day,” you moan as you drag around from lack of sleep, trying to keep up with your Mother’s wanderings. She cleverly learns the new latch on the outer door. The childproof catches on the cabinets don’t faze her. She’s hot, so dispenses with garment after garment.  And she asks those repetitive questions. Often it’s a challenge to find help when you’re an overwhelmed caregiver. Where do you turn? There’s no one size fits all answer. So here are some ideas as starters. 1. Check to see if there is a daycare type of group in your community…senior center, hospital, home health care facility, or nursing home. 2. Join a caregiver’s support group. 3. Check with the Alzheimer’s A... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1353085 Sun, 06 Apr 2008 05:00:43 +0100 1353085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1352769&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D60 It is just two short weeks before Pamela D. Pope’s Retirement Life by Design ~ Living Well is available for international sale at Amazon.com. In the countdown phase, the CaregivingMinutes blog will release an excerpt per week until the release of the book. Save the date April 20, 2008 and buy the book Retirement Life by Design ~ Living Well with Health, Wisdom & Authenticity at Amazon.com. Your quality of life will thank you. If you are a senior, mid life adult planning for retirement, or an adult child to an aging parent you cannot afford to miss the message of Retirement Life by Design ~ Living Well. COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL - Retirement Life by Design ~ Living Well by Pamela D. Pope, Elder Care Specialist - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. You spent the earlier part of life responsibly pla... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1352769 Sat, 05 Apr 2008 19:26:41 +0100 1352769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1344719&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D52 www.popeinstitute.com When speaking to families about my being an elder care specialist and aging in place consultant, they always marvel at the availability of such a resource and thank me for my commitment to advocating for seniors and their families. Families I work with are always grateful to know that I am there to help them find solutions and manage the challenges that come with caring for a sick, disabled, or elderly loved one. I wish I could tell you that Pope Institute is the only elder care company around. I wish I could tell you I work with millions of families each year (imagine the improvements in quality of care if that were the case). I wish I could tell you that your family is the exception and you will never need an impartial elder care specialist to help you mana... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1344719 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 20:08:32 +0100 1344719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1256404&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D44 I have gotten several letters over the last few months asking why I don’t write more articles for the blog. I appreciate that readers enjoy the articles that I write. I have been an avid reader and writer as far back as I can remember. I don’t write a lot on the blog because, I send a copyright registration for everything I write (people are sadly unoriginal-though it pays to have lawyers in the family) and also, I feel when you read or write material it should have significant value - “garbage in garbage out.” You will only find original articles of content and relevant company related pieces at the CaregivingMinutes™ blog. So while I appreciate and am flattered by the compliments about the articles, I will not substitute quality for quantity, and you would expec... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1256404 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 01:57:48 +0100 1256404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1256405&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D43 “What’s Your Motivation?” A great question that we should all ask ourselves before we make a decision or take action. This question came from a middle-aged caregiver who called Pope Institute seeking help for her mom to continue to age at home. She was married, degreed (as all of my middle aged clients have been), and she was on a mission. Among her many background focused questions, she asked me what was my motivation in starting Pope Institute. I must admit, that was a first from anyone other than an interviewer. I find it an easy question to answer. You see, everyone in “elder care” has a motivation: a sick parent prompts someone with no health or elder care experience to enter the market or a professional with many years of experience in the industry feels compelled to “d... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1256405 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 01:39:29 +0100 1256405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1251201&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D27 Recently, I had the pleasure of getting to know Rob Liebreich of seniorDecision.com. SeniorDecision.com is an online consumer rating instrument for senior housing. If you’ve had an experience with senior housing the website allows you to post a rating of the facility you used. As you know, I am a committed elder care advocate and welcome resources that allow seniors and caregivers to raise an informed voice. To add your voice, visit their website by clicking on their logo below. Senior housing options can be complex and expensive. The options range from senior apartments, supported living facilities, and senior care centers. The transition from living in a free standing home to living in a facility can be difficult for seniors and their caregivers. The goal, as always, is to make th... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251201 Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:38:31 +0100 1251201 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1114462&cid=t_140776_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F205388520%2F Taking care of the caregivers, or caregivers taking time for themselves, becomes extremely important during the holiday season.  The task of caregiving often involved more than anyone ever imagined, as related in the AARP magazine article, Caring for the Caregiver, by Sheree Crute. A cascade of studies in recent years has shown that caregivers stand at particular risk for a host of mental and physical illnesses, many of which have roots in stress, exhaustion, and self-neglect—symptoms some medical professionals have begun calling caregiver syndrome. Ms. Crute’s article relates caregiver stories, how some found help, what others can do, and the statistics about the growing need to care for the caregivers.  She also mentions an AARP guide, Caring for Your Parents: the Complete AA... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1114462 Mon, 24 Dec 2007 02:01:13 +0100 1114462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1002343&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Ffamily-caregiver-for-mother-with.html In honor of National Family Caregivers Month and National Alzheimer's Awareness Month today's blog post is dedicated to family caregivers and people whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer's.In the picture are two ladies whose story highlights this month's messages, and who represent so many others who are in similar circumstances.Stella Carrasco, on the left in the picture, is a 63 year old family caregiver who is going through tests for a liver transplant. For the last four years she has been the sole caregiver for her mother, Mary Chaparro, 82, who has Alzheimer's. Stella gave permission for her story to be part of this blog, and she hopes it will help others to understand what a situation like hers is like.There is no caregiver relief or support because Mary, due to the Alzheimer's ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1002343 Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:27:00 +0100 1002343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=959882&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Femergency-volunteer-caregivers-provide.html The Central Coast Seniors Center, Oceano, California, has started a program of Volunteer Emergency Caregivers to provide emergency caregiver support for families and caregivers. People who have healthcare skills, homemaking skills, or who can assist with companionship, errands and transportation for medical purposes, or for grocery shopping and so on, are signing up to help out.The Central Coast Seniors Center is managed by Betty Milne, and already has a group of committed volunteers who help with almost everything needed at the center. Kristi Gott, who is a member, and the editor of the blog Caregivers Beacon, created the idea for the group in order to provide support for caregivers and families who are feeling exhausted, stressed and overwhelmed.The Central Coast Seniors Center provides ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=959882 Thu, 18 Oct 2007 01:05:00 +0100 959882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=931508&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D25 Many of us who work with, care for, and live with older adults appreciate the wisdom and commonly gentle spirit of people 65 and older. I have enjoyed many visits with patients who share pearls of wisdom and regale me with their life stories. These characteristics exemplify why so many professionals chose careers that involve working almost exclusively with older adults. While there is a grace and beauty that often accompanies aging, for many older adults aging and the life changes that accompany it are not welcome. For some seniors the transitions and functional loses create a sadness that is difficult to overcome. This prolonged sadness results in depression. Depression strikes about 19 million people in the US (National Library of Medicine). For many, depression can be treated with tec... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=931508 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 19:15:41 +0100 931508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=906356&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D24 US health policy (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=906356 Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:08:29 +0100 906356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=889028&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D17 Thank you to the Post-Dispatch for printing the correction and acknowledging the editorial error.  As a matter of fact, an acknowledgement identifying the error as an editorial reference was printed in the Wednesday Post Dispatch on page A2 (Thank You).  However, as of Thursday afternoon, the incorrect article is still accessible online with the error intact and no link to the correction.  At the time of this posting, the incorrect reference has not been removed from the online article nor is the incorrect article linked to the online correction.   Since most people read the newspaper online, a correction is being provided through this blog with a reference to the article.  The St. Louis Post Dispatch printed correction reads as follows: September 19, 2007 - ” Due to a... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=889028 Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:57:50 +0100 889028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=874752&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F09%2Fdefining-quality-care-rosalynn-carter.html Ten measurements of quality care are listed by Richard C. Birkel, Ph.D., at The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving . In "Defining Quality Care in Long Term, Home and Community Settings" Dr. Birkel starts with discussing care that is (1) safe, (2) effective, and (3) personalized.Safe Care provides care that avoids injuries to the care-receiver or to the caregiver. I will add some examples for you:clearing the home of unsafe conditionssafe lifting procedures and lifting devices when neededcaregiver notes, emergency medical information, emergency contacts availabletraining for caregivers emergency procedures for home caregivers re: calling 911, rescue workers, ambulancesEffective care is based on scientific knowledge. Again, some examples I might add include:caregiver training from the ... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=874752 Sat, 15 Sep 2007 18:34:00 +0100 874752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=874753&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F09%2Frosalynn-carter-institute-for.html At Lotsa Helping Hands, developed by The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, caregivers can create a free, easy to use website for volunteer caregiver helpers, schedules, updates for family and friends, messages, calenders and more. The Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter established the Institute, RCI, in 1987 on the campus of Georgia Southwestern State University. The mission of the RCI is to meet the challenges of the caregiver crisis in America.The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving website has a wealth of online resources to help caregivers.Some of the topics covered at the website include :Development of quality care in home,community and long term careCommon characteristics of effective caregiver programsInterventions to create desirable outcomes (such as reducing caregive... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=874753 Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:52:00 +0100 874753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=858715&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D12   Do you recall the classic Social Psychology 101 case study of the life and death of Catherine “Kitty” Genovese?  Unfortunately, Ms. Genovese is most known for the circumstances of her premature death.  In 1964, Kitty Genovese was a 28-year-old women living in a well-populated area of a middle class neighborhood in Queens New York.  Kitty was stabbed to death while 38 of her neighbors witnessed the crime by eye or ear.  You heard correctly 38, more than three dozen people, heard her screams during one or all of the 2-3 attacks, which occurred over the course of an hour, and most of them did what amounts to NOTHING!  The obvious questions are “WHY” and “HOW.”  How can 38 people witness such an atrocity and do nothing?  The quests to understand this unthinkable lack ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=858715 Sat, 08 Sep 2007 22:14:08 +0100 858715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=858717&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D14 To subscribe to the Pope Institute monthly newsletter send an email titled “subscribe” to info@PopeInstitute.com.  Remember to include your website address and blog address in your request.  (Source: CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute) CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=858717 Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:10:57 +0100 858717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=814372&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F08%2Fcaregiver-support-in-san-luis-obispo.html At http://www.sanluissenior.com/ you can find groups that provide sharing, tips, education and ideas for people who are caregivers. For information you can call the Coast Caregiver Resource Center at (805) 534-9234.The opportunity to share with others who are in a similar circumstance can help to reduce the isolation that many caregivers say they experience as they care for family members. Developing new friendships and learning how others are coping can ease the burdens of caregiving.The groups are divided into subgroups for Children of Aging Parents, Early Stage Alzheimers, Middle Stage Alzheimers, Parkinsons, Multiple Schlerosis, Stroke Support, Memory Loss, ALS/Lou Gehrigs and more.The opportunity to hear the stories of others, share your own story, and come up with problem solving ide... The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=814372 Tue, 21 Aug 2007 18:21:00 +0100 814372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=807676&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36018&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiversbeacon.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F08%2Fminding-our-elders-blog-wins-best-of.html http://www.mindingourelders.com/ was chosen by healthcentral.com for the "Best of 2007".Carol Bradley Bursack, who has 20 years of experience as a caregiver, is the author and she says her mission is "to shine a light on the isolation often felt by caregivers and seniors".She is also a newspaper columnist and she wrote the book "Minding Our Elders". Carol has appeared on television, has been interviewed many times on the radio, and has a long list of credentials as an expert caregiver.Her website has resources and links, stories, videos, book excerpts, and just about everything a caregiver might want to find. (Source: The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News) The Caregiver's Beacon - Resources, Links, Ideas, News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=807676 Fri, 17 Aug 2007 04:35:00 +0100 807676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=858720&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D9 August 5, 2007 Over the course of the last week, my household hosted our biennial family reunion.  Family members traveled by car and plane from distances of nearly 1,000 miles.  Reunions are a great way to connect with distant relatives, be acquainted with new additions to the family, and honor elders who represent the family heritage.  My husband’s 80-year-old aunt Alice – who does not like to fly, endured a 10-hour bus ride to join the celebration.  Aunt Alice spoke about the legacy of the family and honored the lives of older relatives whom we have lost.  It was obvious the importance Alice placed on having that role.  In generations past, sharing such moments was nearly an everyday occurrence.  Most of us remember growing up in a community where our grandparents lived down ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=858720 Mon, 06 Aug 2007 00:42:42 +0100 858720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=807620&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36019&url=http%3A%2F%2Fworkingcaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F07%2Fworkingcaregiver-semi-finalist-for-al.html WorkingCaregiver.com Semi-finalist for Al Marks Inventive Mind Grant From Idea CafeAUSTIN TX/EWORLDWIRE/July 23, 2007 --- WorkingCaregiver.com is a grant semi-finalists of IdeaCafe.com's $1000 Al Marks Inventive Mind Grant. WorkingCaregiver.com is a bright and innovative site delivering products, resources, and professional services to family caregivers juggling work, life, and elder care for aging parents. Aging in America is driving employers' cost of lost production to over $33 billion, according to a MetLife study, due to absenteeism, work-day interruptions, and leave of absence. Family caregivers across America are arriving to work late, leaving early, or not showing up at all due to the stress and challenges of elder care demands. WorkingCaregiver.com's strategy is to help with the t... Working Caregiver blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=807620 Wed, 25 Jul 2007 23:14:00 +0100 807620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=858722&cid=t_140776_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D7 Answering the call to action to help consumers make informed decisions St. Louis - May 28, 2007 - Pope Institute for Health and Education, LLC, a National Health Care Consulting firm is accepting the challenge of educating consumers about their care options and ensuring consumers receive good care.  The firm, headquartered in Missouri, provides Elder Care and Disability health care planning including Health Care Advocacy, Aging in Place Consultations, and Consumer Education. Pamela Pope, President of the company states, “The health care industry is an intimidating structure for the average consumer.  Families mistakenly depend on providers to screen referrals for them and make the “best decision.”  The health care system does what it can to move patients through the continuum of ... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=858722 Mon, 28 May 2007 21:19:09 +0100 858722