Category: Giving Care

Helping Seniors With Technology

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.

Millions of Americans every year are affected by AMD, which destroys central vision, leaving only the peripheral vision. Those affected may no longer be able to see the faces of their family members, drive a car or read a newspaper. Using a mobile device can have the same results. Nearly one in every three adults over the age of 75 is currently affected by AMD. According to Dr. Chris Knobbe, clinical associate professor emeritus at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, “AMD is an epidemic — worldwide. Globally, one in every 11 persons over the age of 50 has some degree of AMD.”

The good news is technology is improving for those with vision loss like AMD. Currently, there are many tools which can help individuals to read their devices, from simple magnifiers and brighter reading lights, to more sophisticated screen readers and applications. The accommodation of selecting larger fonts and web page sizes has also been available across media to make information more legible. These visual aids have helped those with vision impairments to maximize their usable vision, and make better use of devices and technology. The use of voice command devices has also become more mainstream and should be considered for those with vision impairments. Amazon has ECHO, a home voice command device, and Samsung has a smart TV that also listens to voice commands.

Bridging these gaps between seniors and technology can also be a challenge for caregivers sometimes, given the limitations that vision loss can have on using devices. But once these hurdles are cleared, research shows that adults older than 65 using smart phones or other electronic devices are more likely to become daily internet users.
Caregivers can help by doing a few simple things:

• Avoid complex devices with distracting features.
• Use technology that accommodates physical limitations.
• Choose devices relevant to user needs and values.
• Encourage technology that is socially rewarding.
• Be their technical support.

Once on the internet, seniors using devices with social media apps such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are more in touch and engaged with others. Forrester Research also showed in its “Digital Seniors” report that 60% of all US seniors are online, and of those, roughly half are also using Facebook. “Many people have the misunderstanding that seniors are averse to technology. I don’t find that true at all,” said RN Kari Foster. “It’s the simpler things — like arthritis or forgetting their glasses on their head — that gets in the way.”

ATTENTION PLUS CARE HOME HEALTHCARE
Accredited by The Joint Commission
1580 Makaloa St., Ste. 1060, Honolulu HI 96814
808-739-2811 | attentionplus.com
AGING IN HAWAII EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROGRAM
by Attention Plus Care — a program providing resources for seniors and their families, covering different aging topics each month. For class information and upcoming topics, call 808-440-9356.

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…
Self-Renewal Tips for Caregivers

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.

Go back in time

What types of things did you like to do when ou had more free time? What did you enjoy in your youth? Make a list of three things that you absolutely love and turn these things into activities. For example, acknowledge your love for dogs, then plan an activity that engages a favorite furry friend. If you love music, make plans to see your favorite performer in concert.

It is important not to get stuck in feelings of guilt for taking this needed time away from caregiving. Schedule activities from your “absolutely love” list into your calendar ambitiously this year.

Branch out to avoid burnout

Isolation and caregiving go hand in hand. When people are getting close to burnout level, they may distance themselves from friends, family and social activities. But the best thing you can do for the person you are caring for is stay physically and emotionally strong.

Burnout stems from the decrease in self-care. It entails more than maintaining physical health; emotional support is an important part of self-care. Have you ever considered meeting fellow caregivers and talking story? Support groups offer comfort and reassurance, and can be a great source of practical advice. The Alzheimer’s Association Hawai‘i Chapter offers free support groups for family caregivers every month. The groups are filled with wisdom, tears and even humor. To find a caregiver support group in your neighborhood call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Examine your coping strategies

Make a list of the positive things you do to relieve stress. Turn those into activities and add them to your coping list. Do what is realistic for everyday life.

Restore your energy

This year, focus on ways to recharge yourself, even if that means simply starting with two minutes a day just for you to breathe. Give yourself more energy by giving yourself more time.

What do you need to feel healthier or stronger? Eat well and exercise regularly to increase energy levels. Slow it down. Multitasking is part of the caregiving cycle, but try to limit multitasking in order to be more mindful. Consider building a relaxing sleep routine and finding ways to clear your mind before bedtime.

Talk to someone

If you are waking up tired each morning, it may be time to talk to someone. Caregiver depression has been called a silent health crisis. Between 40 and 60 percent of caregivers experience depression. This can happen to anyone who puts their own physical and emotional needs on the back burner for an extended amount of time.

Depression affects individuals in different ways and at different times. For example, some may experience depression right after a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, while others may experience it as the disease progresses. There is no shame in depression. For more information, visit www.alz.org/help-support.

For the caregivers reading this, know that you are invaluable, so promise to focus on your own vitality. Seek what will support your spirit and strengthen hope. Make 2023 your year.

Support for Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia:
24/7 Helpline 800-272-3900 | 808-591-2771
www.alz.org/Hawaii
www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/younger-onset
Walk to End Alzheimer’s donations: act.alz.org/aloha

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…
Benefit of Live Music in Nursing Homes

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!

Music also has the power to unlock positive emotions and memories. And attending performances with others creates a space for building relationships. The low physical and cognitive requirements allow for a range of abilities to enjoy this shared experience.

Even those in a later stage of dementia can benefit from this sensory stimulation. Hearing music that evokes memories can help a resident reflect on their life and feel a stronger sense of meaning, as well as make them feel connected to the community outside of the nursing home walls. This in turn can contribute to a stronger sense of self and a positive outlook. Additionally, the musical performances are a diversion from the day-to-day activities, keeping life interesting and providing fresh experiences for our kūpuna.

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

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…
The Gift of Caring for Others

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.

By allowing an agency caregiver into a home in crisis, family members are often able to learn new caregiving methods and skills. But as hired caregivers become part of the family, they in turn have the opportunity to learn from their clients — how to live, and sometimes, how to love.

Home healthcare supervisors and schedulers working behind the scenes enable these situations to become daily experiences. Hearing about the successes, the accomplishments, the new diagnosis and the struggles our families go through allows us to share in these moments, giving the professional caregiver the gift of experience and emotional growth.

Watching others go through life-changing events becomes an event in our own lives. By listening and understanding, we can share in these deep moments of exchange.

Providing care to families and their loved ones also enables us to acknowledge the gift of giving of ourselves. We are frequently filled with concerns about our families:

Will she survive this bout of pneumonia?
How will he make it home after his hip surgery?
Is she getting enough to eat?
How can we make a difference?

Some caregivers break down and cry when a client must move into another situation that may be more suitable for their care needs.

“My best self comes out when I realize how everything from subtle influences to helping educate family members can end up saving their lives in some way,” said Margie Esprecion, RN. “Catching the signs and symptoms of an illness, or convincing a 90-year-old to visit their doctor, or noticing the need for an emergency intervention makes me feel like I made a difference.”

We have seen caregivers recognized by family members and clients as angels. The gratitude shown by the family encourages caregivers to keep learning and providing the best care they are capable of. They write words of appreciation — “compassionate, thoughtful, considerate, intuitive, attentive, comforting, respectful” — bringing us joy and satisfaction, recognizing our efforts, and supporting and encouraging the client-caregiver relationship, and acknowledging our purpose:

To provide nurturing moments for the one who cares and the one who needs the care.

Sometimes we must just pause and appreciate everyone who has taught us how to become better human beings.

This is the gift of caring for others.

ATTENTION PLUS CARE HOME HEALTHCARE
Accredited by The Joint Commission
1580 Makaloa St., Ste. 1060, Honolulu HI 96814
808-739-2811 | www.attentionplus.com
AGING IN HAWAII EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROGRAM by Attention Plus Care — a program providing resources for seniors and their families, covering different aging topics each month. For class information and upcoming topics, call 808-440-9356.

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.
The Best Type of In-Home Care for You

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.

Responses to the following questions can help determine the type of care that best suits the needs of a senior and their family.

• How independent is the senior? Do they need constant supervision or do they have signs of dementia?
• Has the senior recently been discharged from the hospital or does he or she need temporary help with the activities of daily living?
• What other assistance is available? Are there family members and friends who are also able to provide support?
• What are their objectives and health goals?
• What is their budget for in-home care?

Task-Based Assistance

This type of assistance works best for seniors who are independent, but would like help with:

• General housekeeping and laundry
• Meal preparation
• Medication reminders
• Exercise and range of motion routines
• Transportation to doctor appointments or errands
• Bathing or toileting assistance
• Other personal care assistance

Time-Based Services

This type of care is based on services provided for seniors who want to stay at home but need longer visits or more direct, hands-on care to assist with activities of daily living.

Task- & Time-Based Services

Healthcare services that offer a full range of care services can design a care plan that suits a senior’s individual needs by offering both time-based and task-based care.

A combination of time- and task-based services can also be tailored for a senior who has a unique combination of care needs.

VIVIA by Ho‘okele Home Care
820 Mililani St., Ste. 711, Honolulu, HI 96813
O‘ahu: 808-784-3049 | Maui: 808-784-3094
info@viviacares.com | www.viviacares.com

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…
The Gift of Holiday Presence

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.

Myra worked with one of our traumatic brain injury clients. Festive clothing, special jewelry and even sparkly makeup helped this client feel ready for celebrating the holidays.

Another caregiver sang carols and held a lonely hand. Although the client wasn’t able to respond, those gifts surely made a difference.

Gift giving does not have to be expensive, tiresome or obligatory. The gift of time does not require quantity — just focused attention during the minutes shared. The gift of a smile costs nothing, but can reconnect the humanity often lost in caregiving. A shared treat, movie or outing — simple things that are sidelined by life and caregiving — are gifts to be given, received and enjoyed immediately. Whatever you chose to share with a person needing care, remember that the greatest gift you can give is your presence.

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

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…
A Caregiver’s Mantra

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.

At age 11, I witnessed how lovingly my grandfather cared for and protected my grandmother, who was forgetting things. When someone made an unkind remark toward my Lola regarding her dementia, my Lolo responded very admirably. With few words, he simply excused us from the room.

“Why are some people so mean?” I asked my Lolo. He said that when I run across people in the world who aren’t nice, I should forgive them and be nice to them anyway.

“Be kind to unkind people. They need it the most. It’s the right thing to do.”

Although it was a difficult concept for me to grasp at the time, today, these simple, timeless sentiments serve as my touchstone as I navigate the daily challenges of caregiving.

Show kindness in the face of adversity. Show compassion and understanding without judgement. “It’s the right thing to do.”

“Not throwing stones is the first step in treating others with compassion. The second step is to try to catch the stones thrown by others.”
— Dale G. Renlund

ROSELANI PLACE (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
88 South Papa Ave., Kahului, Maui, HI 96732
808-871-7720 | Toll Free: 800-554-9853
info@roselaniplace.com | roselaniplace.com

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.
Gardening & People With Dementia

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.

Studies have shown that the act of being in nature reduces the levels of cortisol and saliva amylase — both biomarkers for stress in the body — further supporting gardening’s positive impact on health.

And though it can’t cure dementia or reverse the effects of aging, gardening is an activity that provides tangible results. Plants grow and fruits can be harvested.

Tasks can be completed, and a sense of accomplishment often comes with time spent weeding or seeing a flower bloom. For many kūpuna it has the added benefit of bringing back memories of past gardens tended.

Gardening activities can include simple tasks like watering and weeding to simply wandering through the pastoral setting and enjoying peaceful moments. Though more
research needs to be done on its effect, the consensus is that the life of a kupuna can continue to blossom through gardening.

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

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.
Perspectives on Aging

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?

There are multiple factors that determine if one is considered old. In other words, the high number of years someone has been on this Earth does not necessarily define them as being old. Twenty years ago, a 65-year-old may have looked and acted different than the 65-year-old of today. In today’s world of medical technology, health products and smarter lifestyles, it may be hard to identify and categorize our ku¯ puna. With advances in healthcare and the pursuit of healthy lifestyles, it is possible that today’s 65-year-old looks and feels younger — more like a 45-year-old.

After gaining years of experience working and caring for the elderly, I can imagine many ways to describe what “aging” means. Aging looks different depending on your perspective.

Here is a rather dour perspective from the population in question regarding getting older based on a study conducted by Human Development Specialist Nina Chen: “Getting older means more years to add to your life, less active, less hair, more medicine, more wrinkles, arthritis and more forgetful. When people get older, they lose their dignity and independence. Being old means not being able to do anything.”

Positive outlooks documented in the study included: “Being old means more experiences and having privileges, for instance, senior discounts, senior centers, affordable housing for seniors and senior support groups. Getting older means getting wiser. Older people are just like a walking library. They have true stories — not fiction.”

Individual self-worth and dignity are important factors as we age. For older individuals, this means living life to the fullest each day and doing what you want to do. Lifestyle choices and changes can enhance the way we age. Below are some changes that may improve how we age:

• Stop smoking to allow more oxygen into your body’s cells.
• Stop drinking alcohol to keep your tissues in a healthy state.
• Exercise consistently to maintain mobility.
• Eat healthy foods to give your body the fuel it needs to regenerate cells.
• Drink more water so toxins absorbed from the environment will be flushed out.
• Stay out of the sun to avoid skin damage.
• Make and keep friends to stay engaged and thriving in society.
• And keep in mind that retirement leads to less stress. The age of retirement for full Social Security benefits is now 70.

Don’t have regrets about what you haven’t experienced. Get out there and seize the day!

ATTENTION PLUS CARE HOME HEALTHCARE
Accredited by The Joint Commission
1580 Makaloa St., Ste. 1060, Honolulu HI 96814
808-739-2811 | attentionplus.com
AGING IN HAWAII EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROGRAM
by Attention Plus Care — a program providing resources for seniors and their families, covering different aging topics each month. For class information and upcoming topics, call 808-440-9356.

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…
How To Choose an Assisted Living Facility or Nursing Home

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.

COST

Before deciding on a live-in facility, make sure that is the option you want to pursue. Include the older adult when considering other care options. A major factor can be cost. In 2020, the Genworth Cost of Care Survey documented median annual costs for five options. (These numbers are not reflective of higher costs in more expensive areas.)

• Nursing home (private room) $105,852
• Nursing home (semi-private room) $93,072
• Assisted living $51,600
• Home health aide (full time) $54,912
• Adult day care $19,236

Check if your parent has long-term care insurance. Generally, it will cover assisted living, but most health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not. It may not cover the full cost of care, either. Read the policy carefully. Medicaid may be an option for those with limited assets or your state may offer some other assistance. Contact Hawai‘i’s Medicaid agency through medicaid.gov to find out more.

Veterans may be able to get help through the Aid and Attendance benefit (va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound). Check with Hawai‘i’s VA pension management center at benefits.va.gov/stpaul. Learn about VA pension benefits at va.gov/pension.

SIZE

Facilities may have just a few patients, or house more than a hundred residents. Each has benefits and drawbacks. A small group home can have a great staff-to-patient ratio where caregivers know every person’s preferences well. They are often located in neighborhoods.

WHERE TO GET A LIST OF FACILITIES

Trying to determine what your options are can be daunting. Here are options you can check out to locate facilities in your area:

• Area Agency on Aging: usaging.org
• Yellow Pages website: yellowpages.com
• Aging Services Directory: leadingage.org/find-member
• Find Senior Housing: directory.alfa.org
• Ask neighbors, friends, doctors and other professionals for recommendations.

SERVICES

Larger facilities can offer more amenities such as libraries, music rooms, gyms, and swimming pools. They are sometimes set up to care for residents who start off in independent living and then transition to assisted living and/or memory care units that specialize in people with advanced dementia. They may also provide transport to stores or to obtain health care. Some may have doctors who make house calls and an in-house hair and nail salon.

Basic services usually include housekeeping, laundry, medication management support, wellness programs and meals. Some facilities may even offer specialized care for those with health conditions.

Consider your mother or father and what activities she or he may be interested in doing. Does the facility offer gardening, art programs, musical outlets, church services or reading material? What about activities for those with impaired sight or hearing? Is assistance available for those who need help eating? Is hospice care available?

Also, check to make sure that the facility will provide additional help to your parent as their needs increase over time.

THE FACILITY

AARP has developed a comprehensive, printable checklist of what to look for in a care facility:(assets.aarp.org/external_sites/caregiving/checklists/checklist_assistedLiving.html). Here is a modified list of the basics to ask about and verify when you visit:

• Cleanliness
• An emergency generator or alternative power source in case of an outage
• Enough common areas, such as living rooms
• A floor plan that is logical and easy to follow
• Rooms adequate for your loved one’s needs
• Rooms/bathrooms with handrails, call buttons
• Safety locks on doors and windows
• Security and fire safety systems
• Services such as banking, a beauty salon, a café
• Well-lit stairs, hallways with well-marked exits

You will want to visit prospective facilities several times before making a final decision. Visit on the weekend when it is likely to be busier. Join Mom/Dad for meals to see if they like the food. Do residents in the dining room appear happy?

TIPS FROM A CAREGIVER

A former caregiver recommends finding out the average salary of the certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and comparing it to other places you are considering. The higher the salary, the happier the help and the better care the residents receive. Ask how many residents are they usually caring for on a shift and if they like working for the facility. You may have to talk to CNAs without any supervisors around to get honest answers.

THE CONTRACT

Don’t sign anything without taking it home and giving the contract a close review. You can hire an elder law attorney (naela.org) to review it. Have other family members go over the document, as well. Check for an arbitration clause
(consumerreports.org/elder-care/putting-the-assisted-living-facility-contract-under-a-microscope), which requires you to give up your right to sue.

Do your research, visit, ask questions and make your decision based on the answers and your gut feeling. Do residents and staff seem happy? Does it smell good? What does your parent think? Can you afford it? The answers will help you find the best facility for your loved one.

CSA (Society of Certified Senior Advisors)
We support specialist in aging dedicated to improving lives of older adults.
1-800-653-1875 | csa.us
Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors, July 17, 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…
Does Dad Need More Help?

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.

Our seniors can have active lives up until the day they don’t. So family members may have to change directions suddenly. This may involve taking time off work and moving other commitments to the back burner. But there are some signs that show us our senior may be needing a bit more help. Here are a few to look out for:

 AGE: The older your senior is, the closer they will be to needing help, especially if they are slowing down physically.
 MEMORY: Forgetfulness could be a sign of illness affecting the brain or other systems and it generates worry for family members who leave their senior alone for long periods of time.
 DRIVING: If your senior is not driving anymore because it is not “safe” due to visual problems, mobility issues or cognitive concerns, this may be a sign that other tasks may not be as easy for them, as well.
 WEIGHT LOSS OR DEHYDRATION: These are real concerns that indicate they are not eating or drinking enough. Frequent urinary tract infections may indicate not enough fluid intake or poor personal hygiene in the bathroom.
 UNPAID BILLS/UNOPENED MAIL: Our seniors like to have control over their finances until there comes a day when they stop opening their mail. This is a clue they are either forgetting or its not a priority for them anymore.
 FREQUENT PHONE CALLS WHILE FAMILY IS AT WORK: If family members are receiving frequent calls during the day from their senior, it may mean things are about to change. This can indicate loneliness, forgetting that they just called or anxiety about something they cannot control.
 FALLS: This could be the “last straw,” especially if there is an injury. Family members may have to find outside help to monitor their senior for safe mobility while they are away at work.

Just like planning ahead for disasters, planning for the day your senior needs help should be a priority. Life can be busy and noticing some of the scenarios listed above should be on your radar. Of course, your senior will deny they need help and may say something like, “I don’t want you to worry about me. I can take care of myself.” If you feel that twinge in your gut telling you that what you are seeing is not consistent with what they are saying, don’t ignore it! Now may be the time to move into a different role for your senior or ask for help.

ATTENTION PLUS CARE HOME HEALTHCARE
Accredited by The Joint Commission
1580 Makaloa St., Ste. 1060, Honolulu HI 96814
808-739-2811 | attentionplus.com
AGING IN HAWAII EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROGRAM
by Attention Plus Care — a program providing resources for seniors and their families, covering different aging topics each month. For class information and upcoming topics, call 808-440-9356.

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…
Talk Story: A Favorite Senior Pastime

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.

Talk story — sharing history, ideas, opinions and the events of the day with others — is one of the great oral traditions in Hawai‘i. Ancient Hawaiians were known to be great storytellers. Formal storytelling would usually take place in the chief’s court, where renowned orators would perform. Talk story continues to culturally sustain us and keeps us connected with others.

Talking story in today’s world entails getting together with old friends or new acquaintances to socialize. Small talk and pleasantries naturally develop into in-depth conversations in which treasures of the past are recalled and revealed. Through talk story, we can discover and share where we grew up, where we are from, what school we attended, who we know and who we are related to. The reservoir of topics is endless.

And when I talk story with our residents, I realize just how memorable talk story can be.

ROSELANI PLACE (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
88 South Papa Ave., Kahului, Maui, HI 96732
808-871-7720 | Toll Free: 800-554-9853
info@roselaniplace.com | www.roselaniplace.com

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…