🌿❤️The Caregiver Brief❤️🌿

February 1, 2024

Welcome to this edition of The Caregiver Brief, your go-to newsletter for ensuring the well-being of seniors in your care.

A Crisis Unveiled at Mt. Hood Senior Living Sandy, Oregon

The recent revelations from Mt. Hood Senior Living in Sandy, Oregon, are nothing short of shocking. The tragic discovery of a deceased resident who had Alzheimer's disease and wandered off on Christmas Eve underscores a series of egregious oversights and failures at this facility.

Despite previous citations and a mandate for a corrective action plan, the necessary improvements were never made. The abrupt notice to vacate given to residents and their families—via email, with a mere midnight deadline—borders on the unimaginable; how could this happen? The aftermath of this evacuation was chaotic and distressing, with some residents being hastily relocated to other facilities or, alarmingly, left at hospitals.

One particularly harrowing account involved a woman being placed in a makeshift room cluttered with storage items and unsuitable for living, only to be served food utterly inappropriate for her diabetic condition. This neglect and mistreatment reflect a dire lack of humanity and responsibility from those in charge.

As we process this ordeal, the call to action becomes clear. It's imperative to demand accountability from both the State of Oregon and the operators of Mt. Hood Senior Living. Such inhumane treatment of our most vulnerable cannot go unchecked.

Here is the link to the most recent news article: https://www.kgw.com/video/news/local/283-de7384cf-e183-49b3-a1f1-cc78f0463b50

Embracing Change Together: The Journey to In-Home Care

Sally found herself facing a situation she had never anticipated. She lay on her bed staring at the ceiling, her mind reeling, her body sinking into the mattress from exhaustion. Just then, the phone flashed MOM. "Oh, god, what's wrong? I just left her fifteen minutes ago." There was nothing inherently wrong, but her mom was gripped by anxiety about being alone. She had worked herself into a frenzy. Life had taken an unexpected turn for Sally's family ever since they lost Dad in November.

Sitting in her bedroom watching the sunset over the rolling hills, Sally understood her mother's dilemma. She knew introducing a #caregiver into their home was the right step, but it had to be done with kid gloves and careful consideration. If you, like Sally, find yourself in a similar situation or are contemplating hiring help at home, let's embark on this journey together and consider these essential tips before welcoming an #inhome care company into your lives.

1. Be Realistic About Adjustment Time: . Adjusting to having a #caregiver in the home may take some time. The transition can be challenging, and patience is essential during this adjustment period. Open and honest communication about the process with your loved one and family is critical.

2. Finding the Perfect Fit: Just like the pieces of a puzzle, not every #caregiver will fit perfectly from the start. #Caregivers come from diverse backgrounds, each with unique personalities and skills. But here's the thing: many behaviors or circumstances can be coached and improved over time. Give the #caregiver a chance to connect with your loved one, to understand them, and to grow together. Keep the lines of communication open with the #caregiver and the agency.

3. Communicate Deal Breakers: Before setting sail on this caregiving voyage, communicate any deal breakers or non-negotiables to the in-home care agency upfront. This could include specific tasks the caregiver must perform or avoid, preferences for the caregiver's schedule, or any unique requirements your loved one may have.

4. Check References and Background: Before you put your trust in an #inhomecare company: -Don't hesitate to ask for references or reviews from other families who have embarked on this journey. -This can take time, as permission is often necessary before disclosing personal information. -Inquire about the agency's policies on #caregiver

background checks, qualifications, and training.

5. Regularly Evaluate and Adjust: Remember, this isn't a one-time decision but an ongoing voyage. If there are concerns or issues, address them promptly with the agency. You hired the agency for a reason. You are partners in this journey. With careful consideration and effective communication, you can help create a nurturing environment that benefits your loved one and the caregiver, turning this chapter of their life into a story of compassion and care.

🛟Home Safety Checklist🛟

It is easy to overlook potential safety hazards. So, today, we focus on creating a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for older adults. Let's dive into our comprehensive Home Safety Checklist, adorned with visual cues to make it engaging and easy to follow.

General Considerations for All Areas

🔔 Doorbell Audibility: Ensure the senior can easily hear the doorbell.
🔌 Electric Cords: Verify that cords are safely plugged in and out of the way, minimizing extension cord use.
🚨 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Confirm all detectors are operational and batteries are fresh.
🛤️ Stairway Safety: Check stairways for sturdy handrails and absence of obstructions.
💡 Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting across all home areas for all times of day.
📦 Clutter and Hoarding: Watch for hoarding behavior; keep clutter away from heat sources to prevent fires.
🗑️ Trash Management: Make sure the senior efficiently manages trash bins.
💧🔌 Water and Electricity Safety: Keep electrical items away from water.
🔒 Firearm Safety: Secure any firearms in the home.
🔥 Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance: Ensure the chimney is clear and know the last inspection date.
🌡️ Temperature Control: Maintain a comfortable home temperature; consider safety locks on thermostats.
📞 Phone Safety: Educate seniors on current phone scams.

Kitchen Specific

🍎 Nutrition: Check for an adequate supply of nutritious food.
🧼 Kitchen Hygiene: Ensure clean surfaces, which might indicate vision issues.
🍳 Appliance Usage: Evaluate if the senior can safely use appliances; restrict access if necessary.
📅 Food Expiration: Regularly inspect for expired items; label and date food.
⚠️ Floor Safety: Address slippery floors with non-skid solutions; promptly clean spills.
🛒 Grocery Shopping and Meal Preparation: Assess independence in shopping and cooking.
👋 Accessibility: Adjust storage to keep items within easy reach.
🥫 Container Accessibility: Assist with or modify containers that are difficult to open.
🧴 Chemical Safety: Securely store hazardous materials.

Bathroom Specific

🚽 Independent Bathroom Use: Check for comfortable toilet height.
🚿 Floor Safety: Evaluate the need for bath mats while considering tripping risks.
🛁 Bath Accessibility: Consider tools like tub transfer benches for safety.
🛠️ Grab Bars: Install grab bars by the tub, shower, and toilet.
🔧 Towel/Curtain Rod Stability: Ensure these fixtures are secure.
🚿 Shower Comfort: Offer handheld showers and bath seats for safe bathing.
🌡️ Bath Temperature Safety: Label faucets and set a safe water temperature limit.

Living Room Specific

🛋️ Furniture Stability: Test the stability and comfort of furniture.
💡 Lighting and Tripping Hazards: Provide adequate lighting; eliminate tripping hazards.
📦 Clutter Management: Keep the area free from accumulating clutter.

Bedroom Specific

⚠️ Tripping Hazards: Remove any potential tripping hazards.
📞 Phone Accessibility: Ensure a phone is easily accessible, preferably cordless.
🛏️ Bed Height: Confirm the bed height suits the senior's needs.
🌙 Night Lighting: Install motion lights for safer nighttime navigation.

Ensuring the safety and comfort of our seniors is a priority. This checklist serves as a guide to creating a secure environment in their homes. Stay tuned for more tips and insights in upcoming editions of 🌿The Caregiver Brief🌿.

From Shadows to Light: The Journey Through Grief and Remembrance

The month of February often arrives with a heavy heart. It marks the anniversary of my mom's passing, a time that, despite the years, remains vivid in my memory as if it occurred just yesterday. This period serves as a poignant reminder of the complex journey of grief—a journey that does not adhere to a linear path but rather ebbs and flows with the unpredictability of life itself.

Understanding Grief: A Funny Animal

Grief, indeed, is a peculiar creature. It has the uncanny ability to catch us off-guard, transforming ordinary moments into intense emotional experiences through the most straightforward triggers. Whether it's a song, a scent, or a scene from everyday life, these triggers can momentarily transport us back in time, reviving feelings of loss as if no time has passed.

This phenomenon raises profound questions about the nature of grief and how we navigate its waters. How do we process the lingering loss, especially when societal norms suggest we should have moved on? Is it possible to fully live in the present while still honoring and cherishing the memories and love of those who have passed?

Grief Is Not a Sign of Weakness

First and foremost, it's crucial to recognize that grief does not indicate weakness or have an expiration date. The pain of loss is a testament to the depth of our love and the strength of our connections. Grieving is a deeply personal process that differs vastly from one individual to another. The notion that we should be "over it" by a specific time is a myth that disregards the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Living in the Present While Cherishing the Past

Finding a balance between living in the present and treasuring memories is a delicate endeavor. It involves acknowledging that loss is part of our story but does not define our entire narrative. We can honor our loved ones by meaningfully incorporating their memory into our lives. This might involve establishing traditions celebrating their lives, pursuing causes they were passionate about, or simply keeping their stories alive by sharing them with others.

Furthermore, mindfulness and self-compassion practices can help us navigate moments of intense grief. Mindfulness allows us to experience our emotions without judgment, recognizing them as natural responses to our loss. Self-compassion encourages us to be gentle with ourselves, acknowledging that grief is a sign of our capacity to love deeply.

The Role of Support Systems and Professional Help

It's also important to recognize the value of support systems and, if needed, professional help in processing grief. Friends, family, support groups, and mental health professionals can offer invaluable assistance and understanding. They provide spaces where our feelings can be expressed and validated, fostering healing and growth.

A Journey of Love and Loss

February unfolds as a reminder of the dual paths of loss and love that define the human experience. While grief may never entirely disappear, it evolves, becoming a part of the tapestry of our lives. By embracing our memories, seeking support, and practicing self-compassion, we can navigate the journey of grief with grace, moving forward with our lives while keeping our loved ones close to our hearts.

Product of the Month

I wish this product had been available while caring for my mom. The options are endless. Amazon's reminders, calls, entertainment, and offerings, Which It refers to as skills, are amazing. One of the skills is Alexa Together.

Alexa Together is a way to support your loved ones, keeping you together even when you're apart. To get started, you will need:

• One Alexa Together Subscription: $19.99/month plus tax after a 30-day free trial. Cancel anytime.

• One Echo Device: Only the person receiving support is required to have an Echo device. The supporting family member just needs the Alexa app installed on their mobile device. However, if both parties have smart display devices (we recommend the Echo Show 8), you can video chat. Purchasing a new device for your loved one? Opt to have it set up before it ships.• Two separate Amazon accounts: One for you and one for your loved one.

Click here to order your device today: Echo Show.

If you know someone who might be interested in 🌿The Caregiver Brief🌿, please share it with them. I also encourage you to check out our free private community, The Nest. Information is updated weekly.

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