Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | May 10, 2023 | Giving Care, May - June 2023
Adding some sparkle to your social life can be a challenge at any age, especially in life’s later decades. For many, adult day care is a low-stress foray into an activity-filled social life. Adult day care centers are key providers of long-term care services. They provide activities, health monitoring, socialization and assistance with daily activities.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Mar 5, 2023 | Giving Care, Mar - Apr 2023
There are many reasons why working with seniors became my passion. One was to prepare myself to care for my loved ones as they age. We will all eventually encounter the challenges of caregiving. What better way to prepare than by choosing gerontology as a career?
Kristina Wong, Care Manager, Altres Medical | Mar 5, 2023 | Giving Care, Mar - Apr 2023
As we age, our loss of independence can lead to reluctance to both accept or ask for help. Often, finding a caregiver who is compatible with you or your loved one and their particular personality traits can help them transition to receiving care.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Mar 5, 2023 | Giving Care, Mar - Apr 2023
When you see a gray-haired person clinging to the few possessions they have and wandering the streets, it is because they are trying to find shelter, a safe place to sleep and something to eat. Among Hawai‘i’s houseless population, there are aging persons unable to live in safe and healthy environments.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Mar 5, 2023 | Giving Care, Mar - Apr 2023
Technology is ever-advancing these days, with information on new devices everywhere. For early adopters, this is seen as helpful and even normal. However, for some seniors, adapting to new devices can be challenging due to physical limitations. Vision loss is one of the more common problems experienced, as is age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that typically affects older adults.
Christine Spencer, Maui County Regional Coordinator, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii | Jan 1, 2023 | Giving Care, Jan - Feb 2023
Caregivers are some of the most selfless people you will find, constantly putting the needs of others before their own. In Hawai‘i, over 65,000 people are family caregivers for almost 30,000 loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. In my seven years of experience working with family caregivers, I’ve seen caregivers who make many sacrifices, sometimes neglecting their own health and often postponing vacations for years. If this is you, it’s time to focus on self-renewal.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Jan 1, 2023 | Giving Care, Jan - Feb 2023
Much more than just a time-filler, live music holds therapeutic benefits for nursing home residents. According to a 2016 study, live music has been shown to reduce cortisol levels in the body, allowing for a stronger immune system, reduction in depression, better memory and many other benefits. It’s no wonder that nursing homes schedule in a healthy dose of live music!
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jan 1, 2023 | Giving Care, Jan - Feb 2023
Those of us in the home healthcare business have the opportunity to witness and share amazing stories of families in need each and every day. These stories come from the connections and meaningful moments between care providers and those they care for.
Mary Lester, RN, VP and Maui COO, VIVIA by Ho'okele Home Care | Nov 3, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
It is important that seniors and their families understand their choices when it comes to in-home care, so they can decide what will best fit their needs. For some folks, traditional time-based in-home care services are the best option, while others will find task-based in-home assistance to be less intrusive, more affordable and an effective way to continue to live well at home independently.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Nov 3, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
Every year at this time, The Caregiver Foundation witnesses and acknowledge the “extras” caregivers provide for individuals who would otherwise not benefit from any holiday spirit. Cleo, a caregiver for a 100-year-old bed-ridden client with dementia, brought in a dazzling Christmas tree. Lights danced in our client’s eyes; a smile in remembrance of holidays past softened her face.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Nov 3, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
Many professional caregivers have deeply rooted memories that inspired them to pursue a career in a field — such as assisted living. My first experience with dementia, caregiving and compassion involved my own grandparents, my Lolo and Lola.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Nov 2, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
According to a 2021 research review on the impact of gardening in dementia treatment, exposure gardening activities has shown many benefits for the dementia population. Some of these benefits include reduction in depression and aggressive behaviors, an increase in engagement, improved mood and an increased sense of purpose.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Nov 2, 2022 | Giving Care, Nov - Dec 2022
The average life span has increased more in the past century than in all the years humans previously existed. As approximately 10,000 baby boomers (those born between 1944 and 1964) are turning 65 every day, it would appear that we will have a large influx of aging people over the next couple decades who may need services appropriate for “old people.” But is 65 really old?
Society of Certified Senior Advisors | Sep 1, 2022 | Giving Care, Sept - Oct 2022
Finding the right place for Mom or Dad is both an art and a science. You have to do your research and trust your gut. Assisted living facilities are widely available to help take care of older adults who need help with bathing, dressing or other daily activities. When that is no longer enough, a nursing home can provide 24/7 healthcare. Either way, it is important to research facilities to determine which one seems to give the best care.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Sep 1, 2022 | Giving Care, Sept - Oct 2022
How do family members prepare for the day their senior needs more help — the kind of help that requires loved ones to re-prioritize their lives? If only there were a date set aside for this change in everyone’s life. Planning on change at this level has never been easy because a plan may not be in place. A sudden fall or illness could change everything and it could happen anytime.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Jun 25, 2022 | Giving Care, July - August 2022
Talk story is a special and cherished activity among seniors at Roselani Place. Our activities director conducts a talk story twice a month and I also offer them from time to time. Talking story with our residents allows us to not only engage with them, but also encourages them to reminisce about the good old days, and learn more about one another.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jun 25, 2022 | Giving Care, July - August 2022
When it’s a family caregiver’s sole responsibility to manage the care of a loved one, there will come a time when stress will get to a level where the caregiver becomes unable to perform self-care or continue to provide for their loved one. Getting others involved to help the caregiver will bring much-needed relief.
Debra Lordan, GM Senior Editor | May 5, 2022 | Giving Care, May - June 2022
The woman in line in front of me was tending to her father who apparently suffered from dementia. Suddenly, she completely lost it and was yelling at him. I thought she was going to hit him! He looked frightened, dazed and confused. When I tried to console the woman, she yelled back at me, ‘YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT I’M GOING THROUGH!’”
Tracy Hart, Vivia Navigator, Vivia Cares Inc. | May 5, 2022 | Giving Care, May - June 2022
You may think that in-home assistance is only for people who are very old, very ill or recovering from a severe injury or surgery. But nowadays, capable and self-reliant seniors are employing a new kind of assistant to provide task-based in-home care. A task-based assistant can help you with those burdensome chores that are becoming challenging or that you just don’t like to do anymore.
Christine Spencer, Maui County Regional Coordinator, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii | May 5, 2022 | Giving Care, May - June 2022
Most people feel a sense of control when they’re behind the wheel. So what happens when it’s time to retire the car keys? The decision to stop driving can be one of the most challenging topics families and people living with Alzheimer’s disease face.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | May 5, 2022 | Giving Care, May - June 2022
Usually, events that necessitate a goodbye are seen as sad… or at least poignant. In our younger years, we expected these goodbyes to be temporary — we knew we were going to see them again! As we get older, we start to understand that a goodbye may mean moving so far away that visiting will be unlikely and the relationship we loved may be permanently changed. And then come the goodbyes we know are final — the farewells at the end of a life that leave us with only memories of a loved one.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | May 5, 2022 | Giving Care, May - June 2022
Family members must prepare now for the day their senior needs more help — the kind of help that may require them to reprioritize their lives. If only there were a date set aside for this change in everybody’s life. But we must keep in mind that a sudden fall or illness could change everything — and it could happen at any time.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Feb 27, 2022 | Giving Care, March-April 2022
Meaningful, familiar and ability-matching activities for those with dementia is the goal of the Montessori method of dementia care. Long-term memories can be unlocked through engaging in familiar tasks.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Feb 27, 2022 | Giving Care, March-April 2022
While there have been terrible examples of guardianship abuse cases in the news, there are also thousands of individuals who are benefiting from ethical, well-disciplined guardians.
Andrew Sobrepena, MBA-HCM, Director, Malama Nui Home Care LLC | Feb 27, 2022 | Giving Care, March-April 2022
We all need help at some point in our lives — and this is true especially for our aging loved ones. However, it can be overwhelming to choose among the variety of help that our kūpuna can utilize as they progress into aging.
Mahlon Moore | Feb 27, 2022 | Giving Care, March-April 2022
The many benefits offered by aging at home cannot be overlooked when deciding whether to consider at-home care for kūpuna. Here are some of the most valuable…
Jen Eaton, CEO, Islands Hospice | Jan 1, 2022 | Giving Care, January - February 2022
In Hawai‘i, it is common that some kūpuna will remain at home under the care of younger family members, even as their health declines. Aging at home can work well for some ‘ohana, but care becomes more complicated if your loved one is facing a serious or terminal illness and experiencing symptoms that are challenging to manage at home.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Jan 1, 2022 | Giving Care, January - February 2022
Twenty years ago, I was hired as the assisted living director for a Jewish community, where I learned about their culture, faith and life experiences. Some of the residents I cared for were Holocaust survivors and I listened to their stories. One survivor, who I will call “LL,” lost his mother and sister during this horrific time in history. He showed me a photo of his mother and sister, as well as the number tattooed on his forearm that served as a constant reminder.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jan 1, 2022 | Giving Care, January - February 2022
When planning for the in-home care of their kupuna, family caregivers may have difficulty looking at the home environment and adapting it to provide proper care. For example, a room layout that worked well when the loved one was mobile may not be ideal when circumstances change and bed-bound care is required. Back injuries, sprains and preventable falls can have significant consequences that can adversely affect quality-of-life. Here are some tips to ensure the care environment is safe…
Rev. Shuji Moriichi, MA, M. Div, BCC; Anna C. Dapper, RN, MSN; and Mary Vorpahl, LICSW | Jan 1, 2022 | Giving Care, January - February 2022
Despite hospice care’s increasing popularity, there are still widely held misconceptions regarding end-of-life care. This article by members of the Society of Certified Senior Advisors (www.csa.us) seeks to dispel many myths about hospice care and to present accurate information on this growing segment of our healthcare system. By doing so, it is hoped that hospice benefits will be accessed more widely.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Oct 1, 2021 | Giving Care, October-November 2021
For someone with dementia, both too much and too little sensory stimulation may lead to agitated behaviors. To keep your loved one at a regulated state of sensory stimulation, it is important to consider what is providing sensory stimulation in each space.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Oct 1, 2021 | Giving Care, October-November 2021
Although there are many seniors still on the road, some may have lost critical cognitive and physical functions. These limitations may result in dangerous, life-threatening situations. A formal driving assessment or refresher course may help mitigate problems.
Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | Oct 1, 2021 | Giving Care, October-November 2021
Providing care for an aging loved one can be challenging, especially if he or she has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. These challenges have been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic. Hawai‘i has an estimated 29,000 citizens suffering from Alzheimer’s. By 2035, that number could rise to 35,000.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Oct 1, 2021 | Giving Care, October-November 2021
There is nothing more frightening than the image of a 93-year-old helping a 96-year-old step into the shower or stumble down a stairway. While this scenario is becoming more common in Hawai‘i, the reality is this generation wants to take care of themselves.
Dan Ihara, CEO of Senior Move Managers LLC dba De-clutter Hawaii | Jul 29, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
When the time comes for Mom and Dad to move or downsize for safety reasons, they may find it difficult to decide what to do with what they consider to be their precious heirlooms. Designating items to friends, family or charities in a will or trust will ensure their destination, while passing on these items before the inevitable occurs can give both the giver and the receiver tangible pleasure in the here and now.
Ku‘unani DeMonte, Caregiver’s Heart Hawaii | Jul 29, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
Every year, an increasing number of seniors are needing 24/7 care, whether it is due to a fall, heart condition or old age. Some have prepared for this, determining in advance who will be their power of attorney and who will care for them at home. Others may have already decided to go to a care home or nursing home when they can no longer care for themselves.
Andrew Sobrepena, MBA-HCM, Director, Malama Nui Home Care LLC | Jul 29, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
Our kūpuna need our attention now more than ever. The pandemic hinders not only casual gatherings but also activities that contribute to the happiness of our elderly. This is especially hard for them, since they eagerly look forward to family time, when they get to truly enjoy our undivided attention and company.
Neal Hendrickson, Pohai Nani Director, Marketing & Sales | Jul 29, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
Take inventory of your situation before you begin looking into senior retirement communities. You can start by determining your timeline and reviewing the information in this article. You will then be ready to call the senior community sales department and ask the right questions.
Lea Murakami, Director, Sales & Marketing | Jul 29, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
Many experts believe that art therapy can help individuals with dementia express themselves — beyond words and language. “In nurturing, calm, supportive settings, they sometimes have moments of clarity and express things that shock us all,” says Ruth Drew, director of family and information services for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jul 28, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
The unexpected can occur at any time, no matter how prepared we think we are. A crisis will bring families together in an instant. If you are distanced from the area, there are ways to manage the situation. Working as ‘ohana with strong communication will help coordinate what is needed. Recently, I experienced a crisis when my mother fell and broke the head of her femur — otherwise known as a hip fracture.
Tori Abe Carapelho, President and CEO, Navian Hawaii | Jul 28, 2021 | August - September 2021, Giving Care
Navian Hawaii’s comprehensive, interdisciplinary program of care is designed to provide patient-centered care for every life journey, offering relief from suffering, support for the entire family, and hope, compassion and love.
Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | Jun 8, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
Adult day care services offer professional care for seniors and adults living with dementia and other disabilities.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Jun 7, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
Providing meaningful activities for your loved one with dementia is very possible. Activities can add meaning, boost quality of life, and provide beautiful opportunities for connection. Here are some tips…
Generations Magazine Staff | Jun 7, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
A valuable resource to help us cope effectively during our most trying times is available through Kōkua Mau. Hawaiian for “continuous care,” the statewide network supports and assists people who may be facing serious illness, as well as their loved ones.
Dr. Poki‘i Balaz, Vice-Chair, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii Leadership Board | Jun 7, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
What do you think of when you hear the word ARCH? A vertical, curved structure or perhaps those golden ones that McDonald’s is famous for? Or do you think of a cathedral arch typically used in bridge architecture? Did you know that in senior care, the acronym “ARCH” means adult residential care home?
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Jun 7, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
When our loved one with dementia cannot clearly express their own wishes, it becomes a guessing game. When you stumble across an unanswered question in your role as caregiver, just think of the difference guidance from your loved one would have made!
Melissa Ah Ho-Mauga, Vice President – Client Services, St. Francis Healthcare System | Jun 4, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
Caring for a loved one can be stressful, even for the most resilient people. Over time, this can harm your health. Consider these four caregiver tips to help preserve your health and well-being.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jun 4, 2021 | Giving Care, June-July 2021
Facing the potential that the COVID-19 variants may keep this virus around, it makes sense that practitioners are looking for other treatments to slow the spread of the disease. The results of a clinical trial in India using two natural supplements to treat COVID-infected individuals showed that these herbal products can speed up recovery time from the disease.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Giving Care
Beginning in March 2020, recreation therapists, activity directors and staff were faced with the daunting task of making their activities safe for their residents. Groups were cancelled; family members, volunteers and outside entertainment were no longer allowed inside of nursing homes. Much more time was devoted to cleaning and social distancing.
Andrew Sobrepena, MBA-HCM, Director, Malama Nui Home Care LLC | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Giving Care
Home cleaning might be a simple activity for some of us. However, this could be the opposite to our elderly family members and friends. Even daily upkeep might require tremendous effort on their part. That is why, as ‘ohana, it is our duty to help and share the spirit of aloha. If you are involved in your elderly family’s home’s upkeep, these four tips could save you time, effort and money.
Chuck Bongiovanni, MSW, MBA, CSA, CFE, CPRS | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Giving Care
The decision to move to senior living involves a variety of factors based on several circumstances, including finances. Professionals across the country have different answers to the question of whether “to place or not to place” a loved one in senior living. Some feel that older adults should stay in their home with paid caregivers. Others think that older adults would receive enhanced care and retain a higher quality of life if they were with others their own age, with more activities and socialization.
Kristina Wong, Care Manager at ALTRES Home Care | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
Kūpuna who are staying at home or limiting interaction with loved ones may start to experience loneliness. Integrating a variety of activities while caring for kūpuna — both personally and professionally — can provide enjoyment for everyone.
Joel Guron, Executive Director, Kalākaua Gardens | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
Transitioning from living at home to a community that offers independent living, assisted living or skilled nursing care can be challenging for both seniors and their families. Kūpuna may need special care, but may be hesitant to make the big move because they prefer the familiarity of their own home. Many Hawai‘i families also struggle with the change.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
The senior living industry also has frontline workers who have come face to face with the pandemic. Working to protect our kūpuna has been challenging, to say the very least. All staff at community living facilities are frontline workers and they must work together to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation and AARP Hawaii | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
Retirement was just around the corner when you receive the call. “Something happened to Mom.” Your world is turned upside down. Later, you realize Mom and Dad did not plan well for this possibility and you have to shoulder the work of caring, arranging for care and possibly financing care, as well.
Ku‘unani DeMonte, Caregiver’s Heart Hawaii | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
More seniors and families looking into long-term care solutions have found that the cost can be quite shocking. In the early stages of planning for long-term care, there are two questions that must be considered. First, what long-term care options are available? Second, how will I pay?
Jerry Correa, President & CEO, St. Francis Healthcare System | Jan 31, 2021 | February - March 2021, Giving Care
When speaking with family caregivers, I often hear a common phrase: “I wish I had known…” They confide there is so much they didn’t know when they started their caregiving journey and had to muddle through on their own. These caregivers didn’t know where to begin, where to turn or even what to ask.
Tonya Hammond Tullis, MAC, Program Specialist, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii Chapter | Nov 28, 2020 | Dec 2020 - Jan 2021, Giving Care
Holidays are a time of fellowship and unity with family and friends. Yet, the holidays can be difficult for families when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed with balancing care and managing holiday traditions.
James Carter | Nov 28, 2020 | Dec 2020 - Jan 2021, Giving Care
My wife, May, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 at age 39. In 2015, after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she underwent a Whipple procedure, whereby some of her pancreas, small intestine, stomach and other parts were removed.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Nov 28, 2020 | Dec 2020 - Jan 2021, Giving Care
Amid all the COVID-19 restrictions, there is a bright spot — the opportunity for families to celebrate the holidays together by engaging creatively in a way that’s enjoyable and safe for everyone.
While younger members of the family are on the go and ready to run around the house, seniors (especially those with dementia) will prefer quieter, more structured activities.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Oct 9, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
An increasing number of family caregivers are performing more complex medical care for their family members at home. According to Home Alone Revisited: Family Caregivers Providing Complex Care, a report prepared jointly by AARP and the United Hospital Fund, there is an increase in the number of family caregivers performing tasks that would, in the past, have been provided under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | Oct 7, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone in some way. But our most vulnerable population, our senior citizens — especially those with dementia — are being particularly challenged. Our normal routines have been altered during the pandemic. This can be devastating for dementia patients, who thrive on the consistency of a regular routine.
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Oct 7, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
Healthcare systems are changing, with radical implications for family caregiving. Cost-saving reductions in hospital stays ensure that patients are discharged “quicker and sicker.” Management of complex chronic care thus moves to the home, and responsibility for that care shifts from medical professionals to family caregivers.
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Oct 7, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has all of us dealing with additional stressors in life, and many of us may
find that our abilities to deal with conflict and issues are short-fused. People living with dementia (PLWD) rely on their care partners to provide assistance with activities of daily living with kindness and compassion. PLWD also require mental stimulation, socialization and a reason to live just as much as you and I do. COVID-19 has changed our world into a place where we no longer feel safe, and social distancing has left many people feeling lonely, depressed and isolated.
Carol Hickman, CTRS Recreation Therapist at Manoa Cottage Kaimuki | Oct 7, 2020 | Giving Care, October - November 2020
Music is often the background of many of our memories. We grow up hearing it on the radio, on TV and in concerts. We sang in school and at special events. We often associate certain songs with our relationships, happy memories, sad memories, growing up and different seasons of life. Because of its constant presence in our lives, music is deeply woven into our memories, and can offer hope and helpful tools to those whose memories are fading.
Ku‘unani DeMonte, Caregiver’s Heart Hawaii | Aug 4, 2020 | August - September 2020, Giving Care
Deciding when is the right time to find senior care for your kupuna can be an intimidating task. You want to provide the best care possible for them, but how do you know if it’s the right time; where do you start? First, understand and identify the level of care your senior needs to conduct day-to-day activities and care for themselves.
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Aug 4, 2020 | August - September 2020, Giving Care
Hiring a home care aide represents a major transition in family caregiving, especially when the care recipient is a person with dementia (PWD), less able to express his or her needs. Initial encounters may stress both sides.
David Troxel, MPH, Coauthor of The Best Friend’s Approach to Dementia Care | Aug 4, 2020 | August - September 2020, Giving Care
Memory care communities that first began appearing in the 1990s are an important care option today for the growing number of families caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. When considering memory care, look for a community with a rich and lively activity program, and staff who are well-trained in dementia care, and exemplify a caring and kind spirit.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Aug 4, 2020 | August - September 2020, Giving Care
Time can stop when memories are lost for a person with Alzheimer’s disease. At certain stages, the brain loses its recent (short-term) memories. The brain — and therefore, the present — is in the past for those with memory loss. Current thoughts are drawn to distant memories.
Melissa Celebrado Bojorquez, Social Worker, Case Manager, Owner/President of CareOps Consult LLC | Aug 3, 2020 | August - September 2020, Giving Care
Having been exposed to what it takes to be a care manager at a very young age as I watched my mother tend to disabled clients in our home, I followed in my mother’s footsteps. I pursued a social work degree from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and eventually worked at HMSA as a care coordinator, supervisor and manager. After nearly 20 years at HMSA, I realized that my husband and I had become members of the “sandwich generation,” caring for three children and aging parents.
Generations Magazine Staff | Jul 13, 2020 | Cover Story, February 2011, Giving Care
Emmet White—local attorney turned retirement community CEO—offers us insight into the business of aging in Hawai‘i. At Arcadia Retirement Residence he sees firsthand the costs and benefits of senior care.
Generations Magazine Staff | Jul 13, 2020 | December 2010, Giving Care
The first few steps on a care-giving journey can seem fairly simple but within just a few days the path turns rocky and is full of turns and twists that confuse even the most experienced caregiver or capable family member.
Ruth Kawano, Admissions Coordinator, Kalākaua Gardens | Jun 4, 2020 | Giving Care, June-July 2020
Seniors who experience a fall or stroke, or undergo surgery may be surprised they can be discharged from the hospital fairly quickly. That’s good and bad news. Seniors may be happy to leave the hospital but may then be disappointed to learn they cannot return home.
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Mar 28, 2020 | April - May 2020, Giving Care
As a dementia educator, I am often asked why people living with dementia (PLWD) ask the same question over and over again. My reply is, “Because their brain is failing.” Every day, PLWDs are going through chemical and physical brain changes. Due to brain failure causing multiple problems with short-term memory, a PLWD can get themselves caught in a loop of asking the same questions. Here are some suggestions for the next time you recognize the start of another loop of questions.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Mar 28, 2020 | April - May 2020, Giving Care
Compassionate care involves addressing the needs of the individual as a whole — their physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. While providers dedicate themselves to managing the physical symptoms of aging and disease, seniors may experience other pain as well, on a mental and spiritual level. Why is this happening to me? What will happen when I die? Will my family survive my loss? How will I make it through this? The time has come for us to find other avenues to help our family members cope.
Tori Abe Carapelho, President and CEO, Navian Hawaii | Feb 3, 2020 | February - March 2020, Giving Care
Navian Hawaii is grounded in a comprehensive care philosophy, providing an interdisciplinary program of care to support patients and their loved ones’ physical, psycho-social, emotional and spiritual well-being. Complementary therapies are a vital part of this care philosophy.
Kona Smith, Director, Ohana Hearing Care | Feb 2, 2020 | February - March 2020, Giving Care
Evaluate the logistics and duration of the care you want and need. If seniors prefer to stay at home for comfort and convenience, the family should consider long-term, in-home caregivers who are part-time, full-time or can reside in-home. Those needing specialized care or end-of-life care often chose full-time caregivers, whose skills, credentials and fees vary.
Mark Tsuda, Executive Director, Ilima at Leihano in Kapolei | Feb 2, 2020 | February - March 2020, Giving Care
Is it the right fit? Will the community support your wants, needs and desires? When you or a loved one consider senior living, questions and options can become overwhelming.
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Feb 2, 2020 | February - March 2020, Giving Care
In previous articles that I’ve written for Generations Magazine, I mention the GEMS® states of dementia. There are six GEMS®: Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald, Amber, Ruby and Pearl. The last state, Pearl, signifies that the end of life is nearing. In the Pearl state, bodily functions are shutting down, the person is likely to spend most of their time in bed and may have muscle atrophy or contractures.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Feb 2, 2020 | February - March 2020, Giving Care
As parents age and grown-up children take on more responsibilities in managing their care, unforeseen challenges often arise. The roles of parent and child reverse as adult offspring increasingly manage the often complex affairs of their parents. This change can create tension when family members share more time together, such as at get-togethers and holiday celebrations.
Audrey Suga-Nakagawa, MPH, Asst. Executive Director, Ka¯hala Nui | Dec 7, 2019 | Dec 2019 - Jan 2020, Giving Care
Often, families don’t know where to turn when a loved one suddenly needs constant care. Insurance and Medicare plans may cover very few long-term care expenses — or none at all. In the past, nursing homes were the only option for care outside of the family home. However, now there are many home- and community-based services that help support aging in place.
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Dec 7, 2019 | Dec 2019 - Jan 2020, Giving Care
There are many types of dementia; Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent. Dementia is ultimately brain failure. As the brain changes, a person’s skills and abilities regress. The following are four changes you can expect as dementia progresses…
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Sep 30, 2019 | Giving Care, October - November 2019
Planning activities for a Person Living With Dementia (PLWD) isn’t easy. I’ve found it challenging to identify activities that peak and maintain the interest of a PLWD. The Positive Approach to Care philosophy states that PLWD need a balance of activities that include leisure, productivity, restoration and self-care.
There are variations of engagement for everyone in any GEMS® state of dementia. GEMS® is a dementia characteristic and ability model. Providing activities that the person is able to do mentally and physically is the key.
Carlene H. Ebisutani, RN & Administrator, Aiea Heights & Waialae Senior Living | Sep 30, 2019 | Giving Care, October - November 2019
Through daily exercise, seniors can combat illnesses such as arthritis and osteoporosis, which can afflict them in their golden years. And as physical health declines, untreated depression can decrease the quality of life. So seniors must remain, mentally and physically active for optimum health. For example, strength training is useful to combat the loss of muscle mass associated with aging, and helps to maintain flexibility and range of motion.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Sep 30, 2019 | Giving Care, October - November 2019
In home care, a question I often get asked is how to care for someone with Alzheimer’s who asks the same questions over and over again. To better understand and manage what’s going on, it helps to first know a bit about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It’s a progressive disease, where brain cells deteriorate and eventually a person can’t make sense of the world. When short-term memory is affected, it can lead to repetitive behaviors, like talking or asking about the same things over and over. In essence, your loved one can’t recall having already asked a question because of their memory loss.
Kristina Wong, Care Manager at ALTRES Home Care | Aug 2, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
With so many options available, its hard to know if you chose the right home care provider for your loved one. Here are four essential questions to ask when you’re evaluating your home care partner…
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator | Aug 2, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
People living with dementia need guidance, human connection and a sense of independence. In my professional practice, we use the Positive Physical Approach. This innovative modality developed by Teepa Snow teaches family caregivers more effective ways to understand and communicate with their loved ones and all people with dementia.
Rick Tabor, Generations Magazine Community Development Director | Aug 2, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
Almost one-third of the adult U.S. population is currently caregivers for an ill or disabled relative. The majority are female and 60 percent are employed part- or full-time. Caregivers need to take time to care of themselves so they stay well enough to care for others. Realize that your own health and well-being could suffer if you don’t take care to be well before tending to others needs.
George and Jeannie Stewart, Compassion for Cancer Caregivers | Aug 2, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
Do you know anyone who has cancer? Do you know what to say or do? We know — and we are bringing that skill set to the workplace. Typically, we all work hard, provide for our families, plan for the future of our children and look forward to retirement someday. However, with one phone call from your doctor, all of that is put on hold, an unplanned journey begins, priorities and perspectives change — and it can all be overwhelming. Compassion for Cancer Caregivers trains volunteers to step up and step in to provide hope through compassion for coworkers and their families who are battling cancer.
Martha Khlopin, Host of "A Medicare Moment with Martha Radio Show" | Aug 1, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
I have spent a decade conducting educational workshops and meeting with individuals transitioning to Medicare or already there. I encourage everyone to explore resources at www.socialsecurity.gov and www.medicare.gov to become knowledgeable before services are needed. I also stress the importance of keeping Medicare cards, medication lists, the names of your physicians and any ongoing health conditions on hand.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Aug 1, 2019 | August - September 2019, Giving Care
At some point in our lives, most of us will be given the opportunity to care for someone with cancer. Even though our experience with cancer may be limited, we may have learned enough to ask initial questions of the patient after the diagnosis is made.
Mapuana Taamu, Resident Care Manager, Kina‘ole Estate, Certified PAC Trainer & Dementia Educator and Generations Magazine Staff | May 25, 2019 | Giving Care, June - July 2019
GEMS® is a staging system for dementia. Teepa Snow, OTR and founder of the Positive Approach to Care® philosophy, recreated the Allen Cognitive system of staging dementia with a positive twist. We can now view our Person Living With Dementia as one of Teepa’s GEMS® rather than on a scale of 1 to 7 or on a scale of mild cognitive impairment to profoundly demented.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | May 25, 2019 | Giving Care, June - July 2019
After gaining years of experience working and caring for the elderly, I can imagine many ways to describe what “aging” means. There are multiple factors that determine if one is considered old. In other words, a high number of years someone has been on this Earth does not define them as being old. In today’s world of medical technology, health products and smarter lifestyles, it may be hard to identify our kūpuna.
Keely Ann Kalama-Lakey, MS, Freelance Writer | May 25, 2019 | Giving Care, June - July 2019
As parents age, many adult children step into the role of caregiver. However, for those who live far from their parents, caregiving presents different challenges. Planning, communication and a team approach can significantly improve the process.
Darlene H. Nakayama, RN, MS, CRRN, Chief Executive Officer, Palolo Chinese Home | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Giving Care
As our parents or loved one get older, they may need help or supervision during the day while caregivers are at work, school or other activities. Sending seniors for care during the day may be a difficult decision due to the cost and concern that they may not have “fun” or may be neglected.
Don Weisman, Communications Director, American Heart Association Hawaii Division | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Giving Care
Because of the often debilitating nature of heart disease or stroke, the effects of those diseases often impact not just the patient, but family members who are placed in the role as caregivers.
Gina Heshiki, Activities Supervisor and Positive ApproachTM to Care Trainer | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Giving Care
Do you know a Person Living With Dementia (PLWD) who repeatedly asks the same question? Does your loved one obsess about leaving the house so that they can go home? Maybe you know of a grandmother who blames everyone in sight for stealing her items. Challenging behaviors are common among PLWD and care partners are burning out trying to address these problems.
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Giving Care
How do family members prepare for the day their senior needs more help? The kind of help that requires loved ones to re-prioritize their lives. If only there were a date set aside for this change in everybody’s life. Planning on change at this level has never been easy because a plan may not be in place.
Jennifer Borja-Johnson, Connect America | Feb 1, 2019 | February - March 2019, Giving Care
Every 13 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. Lower-body weakness, difficulties with walking and balance, and vision problems can make a person more likely to fall. Other causes include home hazards and clutter. Having a medical alert system can reduce a person’s risk of not being able to receive timely treatment, by obtaining immediate medical assistance in the event of a fall or emergency.
Generations Magazine Staff | Feb 1, 2019 | February - March 2019, Giving Care
One of the challenges for caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is finding ways to engage their loved one or patient in tasks that strengthen the ability to recall who people are and what their relationship with them is. Dr. Warren Wong, a local geriatrician with decades of experience working with such patients, took on that challenge and has developed a free iPad app to fill that need: MemorC.