Buzzhippo

There are many things to consider when caring for an elderly loved one. Now that people are living well and living longer, elder healthcare has become very important. This relatively new area of healthcare and provider services is often referred to as elder care. It encompasses a wide variety of issues which include: choosing an appropriate physician or physicians to care for an aging patient, setting up home care is possible, and making decisions about moving the patient from his or her home to a residential care setting. Persons age 65 and older are the fastest growing segment of America’s population. Many in this population are living a healthy, active, independent life; however, as more and more people reach their 80s and 90s, the number of people who need assistance with daily living is increasing, as are the responsibilities of those who are providing the care. The statistics on elder healthcare may surprise you. Read the rest of this entry »

Prior to contracting with an outside service such as homecare, assisted living, nursing homes and even such services as an elder-law attorney or financial planner, seniors and their families should look for evidence of ethical business practices. Read the rest of this entry »

Today was unlike the usual “sticky” hot day in August—it was beautifully cool and dry. I decided a walk through our retirement community garden plots would be an enjoyable activity to see the results of many months of labor in the fruits and flowers. After my late afternoon stroll, I stopped by at a weather-beaten picnic table wisely placed under a shady arbor. “A good place to rest,” I thought. While sitting there enjoying the leafy respite, a stocky woman with a serious expression started clipping and digging at the plot nearby. I noticed she was covered in dirt from head to toe and didn’t seem to mind. We said the usual greetings and I learned her name was Susan. She seemed very busy and at first we didn’t speak much, but I soon learned she had a story to tell. Read the rest of this entry »

Tripping down or falling are some of the problems faced by the elderly and the partially immobilized. The injury from the falls in turn leads to further disability and limits independent and active life. Simple changes in the environment and life styles can stop the likelihood of tripping down or falling. Read the rest of this entry »