ComForCare Home Care believes in providing enhanced care. Our caregivers are always engaging with their clients making sure they ‘Live their Best Life possible’

Here are five ways seniors can stay engaged this summer

1. Indoor Hobbies and Crafts: Engage in activities like painting, knitting, puzzles, or woodworking. These can be done in the comfort of an air-conditioned space, keeping the mind active and creative juices flowing.

2. Attend Local Community Center Events: Many community centers offer senior-friendly activities such as fitness classes, art workshops, and social gatherings. It's a great way to stay cool, active, and socially engaged.

3. Visit a Museum or Library: Spend time exploring local museums or libraries. These places often have air conditioning and offer a range of activities from reading clubs to educational tours.

Hello! Today we'll go over some key pointers when checking your blood pressure at home.

When checking Blood Pressure at home, keep in mind these 5 steps

1- Invest in a Reliable Blood Pressure Monitor: Ensure you have a high-quality, validated blood pressure monitor that is easy to use and provides accurate readings. Look for models with large, easy-to-read displays and automatic cuff inflation for seniors' convenience.

2- Establish a Routine: Encourage seniors to measure their blood pressure at the same time each day, preferably in the morning before they have eaten or taken any medications. Consistency is key to tracking changes over time.

3- Proper Positioning: Instruct seniors to sit comfortably in a chair with their feet flat on the floor, back supported, and arm resting at heart level. Make sure the cuff fits properly and is snug but not too tight.

Previously, we talked about questions to ask when starting a new medication. Today we're looking at 5 ways to ensure that seniors adhere to their medication regimen

Here are five ways for seniors to ensure they adhere to their medication regimen:

1. Set a daily routine: Seniors can establish a consistent daily schedule for taking medications, making it easier to remember and integrate into their daily activities.

2. Use pill organizers: Invest in a pill organizer with compartments for each day of the week or time of day. This helps seniors keep track of whether they've taken their medications.

3. Create a medication list: Maintain an updated list of medications, including names, dosages, and schedules. Share this list with healthcare providers to ensure accurate information and avoid potential interactions.

Starting a new medication? What questions to ask ?

Here are steps to follow when starting a new medication:

1. Read the Information Leaflet:
  - Thoroughly review the information leaflet provided with the medication to understand its purpose, dosage, and potential side effects.

2. Ask Your Healthcare Provider Questions:
  - Seek clarification from your healthcare provider about any concerns or uncertainties regarding the medication.
  - Inquire about possible side effects and what to do if they occur.

3. Establish a Medication Routine:
  - Set a consistent schedule for taking the medication to enhance adherence.
  - Use tools like pill organizers or smartphone reminders to help remember doses.

4. Monitor for Side Effects:
  - Be vigilant for common side effects and report any unusual or severe reactions promptly.
  - Keep track of changes in mood, behavior, or physical symptoms.

The Impact of Music on Dementia

Music has proven to be a powerful tool in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia. Research suggests that music can evoke memories, emotions, and stimulate cognitive function in those experiencing cognitive decline. When individuals with dementia listen to familiar tunes, it often brings back memories from their past, providing a sense of connection and joy.

One notable effect is the improvement in mood and reduction of anxiety and agitation. Music has the ability to tap into emotions and create a calming atmosphere, offering relief for both individuals with dementia and their caregivers. In some cases, even individuals who may have difficulty communicating through conventional means can express themselves through music.

Here are some key signs to look for in dementia:

1. Memory Loss: Forgetfulness that disrupts daily life, especially forgetting recently learned information.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems: Struggling with tasks that involve planning or problem-solving, such as managing finances or following a recipe.

3. Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time, as well as difficulty understanding where they are or how they got there.

4. Challenges in Completing Familiar Tasks: Difficulty with familiar activities, like driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

5. Misplacing Items: Putting things in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

6. Changes in Judgement: Making poor decisions, like giving away large sums of money or falling for scams.