Category: Giving Care

Staying Safe in Paradise: Medical Alert Options in Hawai‘i

With pleasant weather and sunshine nearly every day of the year, paradise offers a safe and pristine backdrop for our golden years. But seniors who want to maintain their independence may desire or even require another layer of security.

Medical alert devices and services systems designed to connect people in need with emergency help are particularly useful for seniors or individuals living alone who may be at risk of falling or experiencing a medical emergency. Typically, a medical alert system consists of a wearable button and a base station. Pressing the button triggers a call to a monitoring center, where a trained professional can assess the situation and send help if needed. Some systems also include features like fall detection and medication reminders.

Finding the Right Fit

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) come in two main types: traditional and mobile.

Traditional PERS devices are connected to a landline through a base
unit and include a wearable pendant. If the user pushes the button on the pendant, even if they are far from the base unit, help will be called. A traditional PERS is ideal for homebound users.

Mobile PERS device works like a cell phone, so it can be worn and be effective anywhere within cell service range. A mobile PERS device allows users to talk directly to an operator through the device itself. A mobile PERS is better for those who are active outside the home.

So to find the right fit, consider your needs. Do you need fall detection or mobile coverage? Research companies to look at features available, pricing and customer reviews. Also, consider availability. Confirm the coverage in your area. Most major providers cover all of Hawai‘i.

What’s Available?

■ SENIOR SAFETY MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEMS has been providing senior medical alert systems for 25 years. They offer 24/7 monitoring with quick response times. Their team of EMD-certified operators provides multiple layers of monitoring to give seniors peace of mind.

Home Alert System: Options include systems that operate with or without a landline. The medical alert system that operates with a landline has a range of up to 1,000 feet inside and outside your house. The system can work with your existing landline phone service and has special features like “Family Check-In” to help keep you connected with loved ones.

For those without a landline, they offer a medical alert system that operates on 4G LTE technology that plugs into a standard electrical outlet for a quick and simple setup. Prices can range from $19 to 29 per month and are also available with automatic fall detection for an added $10 per month.

Mobile Medical Alerts Systems: These wearable options, available as buttons or smartwatches, provide protection wherever you go. The smartwatch includes added features — a heart rate monitor, step counter and even the weather report. It’s also available with automatic fall detection for added security. Both operate on 4G LTE technology and do not require Wi-Fi. Prices range from $30 to 34 per month or a one-time payment ranging from $75 to $100 per device. Both are available with automatic fall detection for an added $10 per month.

A call to the company revealed that purchasing and setup are simple, even without internet access. Choose a device, share credit card information and the device is mailed. Staff will walk you through the setup process over the phone.

■ HAWAII MEDICAL ALERT AND MEDICAL ALARM BY PRIME is a service available to residents across the state. While some companies charge extra for shipping to Hawai‘i and may have higher service fees, Prime offers free 2- to 3-day priority shipping and a free lockbox with your purchase. Their medical alert bracelets and necklaces provide peace of mind to seniors, including those with a fear falling.

Home Medical Alert Devices: Both Linear PERS-2400 and LogicMark Life Sentry are medical alert systems designed to provide security and independence for seniors at home. They require minimal maintenance with batteries that last 3 to 5 years, have a wide range of movement within the house without signal limitations, and have 24/7 emergency monitoring with customizable contact and response protocols. However, they differ in communication and pendant functionality. While Linear PERS-2400 relies on a base unit connected to a landline for communication and comes with a waterproof pendant that can be worn during showers, LogicMark Life Sentry allows two-way voice communication directly through the pendant itself, eliminating the need for a landline and offering more flexibility within the home. The pendant also has a built-in speaker, enabling direct conversation with emergency personnel. Prices can range from $15 to 30 per month with no additional fees or obligations.

Fall Detection Systems: Both NextAlert II and Climax Medical Series are medical alert systems with fall detection and offer 24/7 emergency monitoring by certified EMTs, allowing users to customize their response protocols. However, NextAlert II is a cellular system that uses GPS to allow emergency dispatch without communication, whereas Climax Medical Series can be connected through a landline or cellular connection and does not have GPS. Prices can range from $30 to 40 per month with no additional fees or obligations.

A phone call to Prime Medical Alert was also answered by a affable staff person. This company skips the credit card information and instead, will send you a bill or accept a checking account transfer. They will also walk you through setup over the phone, step by step.

Both companies mailed descriptive, detailed brochures within the week.

With Hawai‘i’s rapidly growing senior citizen population, medical alert devices and services can provide peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones.

HAWAII MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEMS
1-888-473-2800 | seniorsafety.com
PRIME MEDICAL ALERT
1-800-723-6442 | primemedicalalert.com/states/
hawaii-medical-alert-systems

With pleasant weather and sunshine nearly every day of the year, paradise offers a safe and pristine backdrop for our golden years. But seniors who want to maintain their independence may desire or even require another layer of security.
The Importance of Senior Living

Seniors may feel hesitant about making the move to a senior living community and believe the transition will come with a decrease in independence and quality of life.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Senior living communities help older adults lead healthier, happier lives thanks to quality care and services.

If you are considering a move to senior living, here are some things to consider.

• Does the environment feel welcoming?
• What are the apartment and community amenities?
• Are there common areas where you can connect with fellow residents?
• Will there be help with housekeeping and maintenance?
• Are there meal options?
• Is transportation offered?
• Are there recreational, spiritual and entertainment options available?

Senior living communities should be a place of kindness, openness, empowerment, love and respect. Staff members should be available to provide support when needed. There should also be emotional, social and spiritual wellness opportunities.

Choose a senior living community that fits your wants and needs and allows you more time to focus on the things you desire.

GOOD SAMARITAN SOCIETY—POHAI NANI
45-090 Namoku St., Kaneohe, HI 96744
808-247-6211 | good-sam.com

Seniors may feel hesitant about making the move to a senior living community and believe the transition will come with a decrease in independence and quality of life. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The Power of Music in Memory Care

Programming for the residents of a memory care facility can be challenging. Everyone is at a different place health-wise. Many activities are not appropriate for everyone. Even one-on-one activities can be challenging with this population.

I have found great success using programs that involve music. Activities including sing-alongs, musical performances, drum circles, playing instruments and listening to music have provided many positives for residents — and not just because these activities are fun and bring people together. Many studies point to the benefits music offers, including a reduction in agitated behaviors, a decrease in anxiety and depression, an improvement in language skills, and opportunities to trigger positive memories and the emotions tied to them.

Singing also provides aerobic exercise for residents who can no longer exercise traditionally. Singing releases endorphins (a feel-good hormone) and oxytocin (a stress-relieving hormone). Many benefits continue weeks after the session, demonstrating the possibility of long-term effects.

You don’t need to be a therapist to use music therapeutically with your loved ones. Sing a song together. Listen to a favorite tune. Play relaxing background music during times of rest. Use music every day and enjoy its results!

MANOA COTTAGE KAIMUKI
748 Olokele Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816
808-800-4089 | info@manoacottage.com
manoacottage.com

Programming for the residents of a memory care facility can be challenging. Everyone is at a different place health-wise. Many activities are not appropriate for everyone. Even one-on-one activities can be challenging with this population.
Preventing Transfer Trauma

Ensuring our elderly loved ones’ well-being during their transition into care homes is crucial. This emotional and often stressful journey demands a meticulous approach to prevent transfer trauma, which can result from frequent relocations and adjustments to new environments and care teams. Utilizing a seasoned nurse consultant, particularly one knowledgeable in disease processes, becomes vital.

An experienced nurse consultant doesn’t just facilitate a smooth transition, but also anticipates potential future challenges, thereby mitigating the risk of subsequent transfers. Their profound understanding of disease trajectories enables them to foresee possible complications, ensuring that the chosen care home is equipped to manage the evolving needs of the senior individual. This foresight is crucial in stabilizing the emotional and physical health of the elderly, providing them with a consistent and familiar environment that is pivotal for their well-being.

A registered nurse and certified senior advisor also bridges the gap between medical jargon and practical understanding, ensuring families make informed decisions. The role of an experienced nurse consultant secures a health-optimized future for our seniors, minimizing disruptions and maximizing quality of life.

NURSING HOME PARTNERS
828 Ailuna St., Honolulu, HI 96821
808-468-9112 | Info@Nursinghomepartners.com
Nursinghomepartners.com

Ensuring our elderly loved ones’ well-being during their transition into care homes is crucial. This emotional and often stressful journey demands a meticulous approach to prevent transfer trauma, which can result from frequent relocations and adjustments to new environments and care teams. Utilizing a seasoned nurse consultant, particularly one knowledgeable in disease processes, becomes vital.…
The Realities of Caregiving

Caregiving has been part of mankind’s existence from the beginning. We’ve all had caregivers — usually known as Mom and Dad. Many of us have been caregivers of our own children. And as needs changed, parents adjusted their caregiving duties. That is the very first reality of caregiving…

■ Caregiving changes with time. For caregivers of aging parents, it may be a gradual shift from picking up the groceries to checking medications and then to providing help with physical needs. For some, their entry into caregiving is more dramatic as the result of a fall or illness. Caregiving tasks change from that point and often become increasingly complex and difficult.
■ Caregiving is physically demanding. As caregivers, we fill a critical role in the lives of those for whom we care. Our ability to provide compassionate and effective care is linked directly to our own physical, spiritual and emotional health.
■ Caregiving requires support. While we are caregiving, accessing the experience, knowledge and understanding other caregivers can offer makes our journey a little easier. Being part of a support group or having a close connection with another caregiver is essential. Understanding and making use of community resources can make caregiving a little easier, as well.
■ Every aspect of caregiving has challenges. All kinds of emotions can arise, from anger to love. It forces us to face our own mortality but also allows us an opportunity to undertake the highest level of good that humankind can offer — caring for someone else.
■ Caregiving can be rewarding. As difficult as caregiving can be, if approached in a healthy and realistic manner, it can also be very rewarding.
■ Caregiving has an end. This is one reality that is missed by almost every caregiver. It is a reality that we try to avoid, put off, hide from and deny, but the truth is most caregiving has an end — and that end is death. We must be careful to not become so focused on preserving life that we lose sight of quality-of-life.

The Caregiver Foundation would like to serve as your resource for information about becoming a caregiver for a loved one. Our online How-To series provides some of the information you may also receive in our various workshops. If you are a new caregiver, we encourage you to attend one of our workshops or caregiving training classes and join a Caregiver Support Group to learn from and communicate with other caregivers.

THE CAREGIVER FOUNDATION (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
926 3rd St., Pearl City, HI 96782
808-625-3782 | info@thecaregiverfoundation.org
thecaregiverfoundation.org

Caregiving has been part of mankind’s existence from the beginning. We’ve all had caregivers — usually known as Mom and Dad. Many of us have been caregivers of our own children. And as needs changed, parents adjusted their caregiving duties. That is the very first reality of caregiving… ■ Caregiving changes with time. For caregivers…
Care & Self-Care Holiday Gifts

Gearing up for the holidays often means thinking about gifts. Giving them and receiving them! Caregivers in general are givers. Most give of their time; many, of their own resources; and some give their entire personal purpose as they care for another. The Caregiver Foundation (TCF) works to support caregivers, kūpuna, and disabled adults. From managing finances, serving as conservator, acting as trust administrators, to providing complete care management and even end-of-life and estate distribution services, the overriding goal of TCF is to make life better.

This holiday season, we wish for you and yours awareness that drives understanding. Understanding that results in compassion and compassion that spurs active support.

Here are a few ideas for the holidays
✽ For sideline caregivers: Offer the gift of thanks to the main care provider and visit your loved one more often.
✽ For the care receiver: Give your caregiver the gift of recognition — a hand-written note or a drawing.
✽ For the primary caregiver: Give yourself a gift of support. Join a virtual or in-person support group.
✽ For everyone else: Notice the caregiving around you. Give the gift of awareness (and let that gift motivate you to find ways to support others).

THE CAREGIVER FOUNDATION (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
926 3rd St., Pearl City, HI 96782
808-625-3782 | info@thecaregiverfoundation.org
thecaregiverfoundation.org

Gearing up for the holidays often means thinking about gifts. Giving them and receiving them! Caregivers in general are givers. Most give of their time; many, of their own resources; and some give their entire personal purpose as they care for another. The Caregiver Foundation (TCF) works to support caregivers, kūpuna, and disabled adults.
Dementia Care in Times of Crisis

Caregiving for your loved one with dementia, especially during a crisis, can present special challenges. Those with dementia often do not do well with changes in their routine, making it difficult to care for them when the unexpected happens. Below are some ways you can minimize fear and confusion in a crisis:

✦ It is important to remain calm for both your and your loved one’s sake. Distress and chaos can add to an already stressful time. Try to incorporate as much of what is familiar to your loved one during this time. Pick up on cues your loved one may be overwhelmed, such as fidgeting and pacing.
✦ Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings as they may be confusing for your loved one. Never leave them alone, as a crisis can cause them to wander and become agitated. Try to stay in a group as much as possible and share with others if you are caring for someone with dementia. This may allow you to have better control and extra pairs of eyes on your loved one.
✦ It is likely your loved one will become agitated as a crisis is happening. Speak to them in a calm, low-pitched tone. Limit loud noises as this may increase your loved one’s agitation and anxiety. Redirect their attention by going on walks and doing simple tasks.
✦ Try as much as possible to maintain their sleep schedule, medication schedule, if needed, and their regular daily activities to try and provide what is most routine for them. Extra assistance may be needed during times of crisis.
✦ Keep things easy for your loved one to understand. Avoid elaborate, detailed explanations and use simple concrete terms.
✦ Constantly reassure your loved one they are safe and in the right place, even though they are in a different environment.

Most importantly, you must take care of yourself. Talk with others, if necessary, and share your thoughts and feelings, stay hydrated, and rest as much as possible. Pack important things such as
medications, bottled water, weather-appropriate clothing, a cell phone charger, and a portable oxygen tank, if in use, ahead of time. Being adequately prepared for a crisis situation helps you provide a calm, less anxiety-ridden experience for your loved one with dementia.

Support for Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia:
24/7 Helpline 800-272-3900 | 808-591-2771
alohainfo@alz.org | alz.org/Hawaii
Walk to End Alzheimer’s: alz.org/aloha

Caregiving for your loved one with dementia, especially during a crisis, can present special challenges. Those with dementia often do not do well with changes in their routine, making it difficult to care for them when the unexpected happens.
Game On!

Since this issue is focused on the Sports world, I thought it would be fun to show the “sporting events” that are held in adult day care centers!

Adult day care center are important to persons living with dementia or disabilities, or for any senior who is living alone and needs to stay active. It is proven that keeping active, both mentally and physically, helps slow the progression of dementia. During the pandemic, many ku¯puna weren’t able to follow their “routine” of being social, exercising, being mentally stimulated, and having fun while apart from their caregivers. This, of course, was not the fault of family caregivers, who were also impacted by the shut-downs. Many noticed a severe decline in the physical and cognitive abilities of the loved ones they cared for, because of the lack of activities and socialization with their peers.

“Sports” activities like batting (with balloons and swim noodles), Fishing, Corn Hole and Chair Hula are simple but fun ways to exercise, both physically and mentally, and make for a better quality of life as we age. And an Antler Ring Toss is a lot of fun at Christmas!

HALE HAU‘OLI HAWAI‘I (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
98-1247 Kaahumanu St., Ste. 207, Aiea, HI 96701
808-292-4665 | kwyatt01@aol.com
halehauolihawaii.org

Since this issue is focused on the Sports world, I thought it would be fun to show the “sporting events” that are held in adult day care centers!
Dana is a Joy!

DANA (pronounced Donna) is a Sanskrit word that is defined as selfless giving of time and energy; providing compassion and care without the desire for recognition or expression of appreciation. Dana is not someone’s name, or an acronym. Dana is an expression of love, compassion, faith, and caring.

Project Dana began 34 years ago at Moiliili Hongwanji Mission, guided by the vision of two forward-thinking women, Shimeji Kanazawa and Rose Nakamura. Together they created an interfaith, volunteer caregivers program and called it Project Dana (the name was given by Dr. Ruth Tabrah, a well-known Buddhist scholar). Their program would consist of compassionate and trained volunteers offering social support to elders in the community.

Examples of social supportive services offered by these dedicated volunteers are: friendly visits, respite, grocery shopping assistance, and transportation to essential visits such as doctor’s, therapy, or dental appointments. Some sites on Maui and the Island of Hawai‘i offer senior activity days, when the elder is dropped off to enjoy the day while socializing, and breaking up the isolation experienced while home alone.

The sites of Project Dana are led by dedicated site leaders, many of whom have been in that role for 20 years. Project Dana also offers programs to address specific community needs, coordinated by excellent, well trained, highly educated and knowledgeable people. The coordinators have many years of experience in their areas of expertise.

Caring for the Caregiver

This program focuses on services to family caregivers and soon-to-be caregivers. These services include public presentations, support groups, counseling and training. The goal of the program is to help alleviate the stress that comes with continuous caregiving responsibilities.

Fall Prevention Assessment Program

The goals of this program are to: increase awareness of fall prevention, create a safe home environment, enable elders to continue independently at home, assist in establishing quality of life for elders, and identify any potential injury risk factors.

The expressions of appreciation below are priceless words that make Dana a Joy!

Giving and Receiving

“Mr. K’s impact on my elderly mother goes far beyond the tasks of bringing groceries, as important as that is. He listened to my mother and made her feel known and valued. Without his help and the support of Project Dana, she would have been unable to live in her own home during those last difficult years.”
~Grateful daughter of an elder

“Being a Project Dana volunteer, I have discovered that those of us who “help” ultimately become recipients of invaluable life lessons. Thank you, Project Dana, for the opportunity to serve and learn.”
~Anonymous Project Dana volunteer

PROJECT DANA (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
902 University Ave., Honolulu, HI 96826
808-945-3736 | info@projectdana.org
projectdana.org

DANA (pronounced Donna) is a Sanskrit word that is defined as selfless giving of time and energy; providing compassion and care without the desire for recognition or expression of appreciation. Dana is not someone’s name, or an acronym. Dana is an expression of love, compassion, faith, and caring.
Insights from a Dementia Nurse

Caring for anyone with memory loss is difficult. Patients with memory loss can be fearful. Unsure of what’s happening around them. Imagine, after all, forgetting the faces of your loved ones. Driving and suddenly realize you can’t recall your destination.

I’ve spent seven years working as a nurse caring for patients suffering from memory loss. It isn’t easy work. It requires me to empathize with patients, to help soothe their fears when I can. Along the way, I’ve realized their caregivers also need my attention.

Patients are not the only ones impacted when they are diagnosed with dementia. Their caregivers are affected just as much. They will be there to care for the patient when the patient forgets those closest to them — including the caregiver themselves.

When evaluating a patient for memory loss, the patient’s primary caregiver or family will discuss their concerns with the doctor. The patient may be misplacing belongings, forgetting names, faces and locations of places they know well —like the grocery store.

The patient also comes in for an evaluation. At times, depending on the severity of their memory loss, the patient sits in silence. Sometimes they are unsure of what is happening or why they are visiting the doctor’s office. Patients may be unable to answer the clinical questions required to assess for dementia because they simply cannot remember what was said just a few minutes ago.

Many patients suffering from dementia are fearful. They may be fearful when they are left alone. As a nurse, the best thing I can do is remind them of where they are, what’s being done.

Caregivers sometimes cry and become frustrated expressing their concerns. They are not physically losing their family member, but almost feel as if they are. The strain of having to care for their loved one, make sure the environment is safe for them and frequently having to remind them of reality can be exhausting.

It is essential to educate a patient’s caregiver about how the patient feels, about how the patient is experiencing the world around them. Encouraging the caregiver to get help when they experience burnout is vital.

This small step can ensure a better, more positive experience for both the caregiver and person experiencing memory loss. It’s a win-win situation for both.

No one should have to deal with Alzheimer’s or dementia alone. The Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii provides resources to support both unpaid family caregivers and professional caregivers.

Support for Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia:
24/7 Helpline 800-272-3900 | 808-591-2771
alz.org/Hawaii

Caring for anyone with memory loss is difficult. Patients with memory loss can be fearful. Unsure of what’s happening around them. Imagine, after all, forgetting the faces of your loved ones. Driving and suddenly realize you can’t recall your destination.
A Care Home Can Be the Right Choice

Moving to a care home can be a life-changing decision, one that is often fraught with emotional and practical considerations. As our loved ones age, their care needs change, and it’s crucial to evaluate the key factors in making this decision.

First, consider the individual’s physical and mental health. Do they struggle with daily tasks, such as bathing, preparing meals or getting dressed? Are you worried about falling, mobility issues or memory problems? If the answer is yes, a care home might be an appropriate option.

Benefits of a care home include around-the-clock trained staff monitoring safety and well-being. Social interaction is also vital, as loneliness affects seniors’ health. Care homes foster community through group activities, promoting emotional and social well-being.

Financial factors can’t be overlooked either. It’s important to weigh the costs of in-home care versus a care home and determine which option is more feasible in the long run. Care homes can often be more cost-effective, providing all-inclusive care and eliminating the need for multiple service providers.

Lastly, it’s crucial to involve the individual in the decision-making process, ensuring their preferences and concerns are heard. Open communication can help alleviate anxiety and make the transition to a care home smoother for everyone involved.

NURSING HOME PARTNERS
828 Ailuna street Honolulu, HI 96821
808-468-9112 | Info@Nursinghomepartners.com
nursinghomepartners.com

Moving to a care home can be a life-changing decision, one that is often fraught with emotional and practical considerations. As our loved ones age, their care needs change, and it’s crucial to evaluate the key factors in making this decision.
Give Yourself Credit For Caregiving

Stayin’ Alive: the Bee Gees’ message remains important for those of us involved in caregiving. Too often we allow our own health and wellbeing to decline while we try to keep our loved ones safe and content. Here are a few easy to do things that can help keep you — the caregiver — alive… Whether you’re a brother or whether you’re a mother!

• Smile every day. Find one thing, no matter how ordinary, to spark a grin.
• Watch out for signs of stress and depression. You might not recognize them, so consider asking your doctor.
• Eat better — no junk food! Ask a family member to bring a balanced meal once a week. Drink lots of water.
• Find a way to exercise. A good walk is great. If that won’t work try a homebound exercise like “chair” Tai Chi!
• Don’t overload daily to-do lists. Be realistic and set limits. Some things won’t get done. It’s OK. Prioritize.
• Let others help with household chores. Accept that things might not be perfect and spotless. It really is OK.
• Join a Caregiver Support Group. You don’t have to pretend here. You can tell it like it is.
• Give yourself credit. The care you give makes a difference.

THE CAREGIVER FOUNDATION (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
926 3rd St., Pearl City, HI 96782
808-625-3782 | info@thecaregiverfoundation.org
thecaregiverfoundation.org

Stayin’ Alive: the Bee Gees’ message remains important for those of us involved in caregiving. Too often we allow our own health and wellbeing to decline while we try to keep our loved ones safe and content. Here are a few easy to do things that can help keep you — the caregiver — alive……