Category: General

Most people think of physical therapy as a treatment to regain strength and range of motion after an injury or hospitalization. While that’s true, having “PT on-demand,” or a physical therapist that comes to the home can improve an elderly adult’s overall mobility and quality of life—both in the home and outside.

A physical therapist that comes to your home can make all the difference in being able to living independently longer.

Are you an adult child with aging parents who could benefit from physical therapist home services for seniors? Or, perhaps you’re an aging senior and want to get your mobility back?

If you’re looking for “physical therapy near my home”, then there’s nothing closer than PT in your home. There are also many important benefits to in-home physical therapy services for elderly adults.

Continue reading to learn more about physical therapy services.

What Is Physical Therapy On-Demand (PT On-Demand)?

Physical therapy (PT) helps older adults recover and improve strength, stamina, and functional mobility when a medical problem, health condition, or just natural aging creates limitations in performing daily activities. 

With traditional PT, a patient is expected to get in their car drive to their physical therapy appointment at the hospital or PT clinic. But this can be challenging for seniors who:

• Aren’t mobile
• Can’t drive
• Don’t feel comfortable leaving their home

However, with in-home physical therapy, elderly adults can receive professional PT care in the privacy and convenience of their homes.

The Benefits Of A Physical Therapist That Comes To Your Home

There are five primary benefits of having a physical therapist on demand for elderly adults:

• Convenience
• Personalized attention
• Increased confidence moving around
• Regaining independence
• Receiving compassionate, professional care

Here’s a look at these benefits in more detail.

Convenience

In-home physical therapy services are convenient for elderly adults and those who support their care. Having a physical therapist that comes to the home means you don’t have to worry about scheduling transportation or moving your elderly loved one from their familiar surroundings. You can schedule PT on-demand at a day and time that works best for your loved one.

Personalized Attention

Physical therapy in-home service is much more personalized than PT at a traditional clinic.

When a physical therapist comes to the home, they can provide elderly adults with private, personalized attention free from the distraction of other patients. The PT develops an intimate understanding of the older adult’s psychosocial and physical mobility needs, enabling them to provide an individualized care and therapy plan.

Increased Confidence Moving Around

In-home physical therapists develop a plan of care that meets the older adult’s unique needs for functional mobility in their home. The PT observes the elderly adult performing exercises within the setting of their daily life and creates a plan tailored to those activities. 

The elderly adult will, in turn, feel more confident in their mobility at home.  They’ll approach everyday activities with greater ease, like:

• Climbing up and down stairs
• Getting in and out of chairs
• Moving about the kitchen
• Going out for the mail

Your elderly loved one can also receive the guidance they need to feel more comfortable using assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or specialized equipment.

Regaining Independence

With greater confidence in their mobility around the home, older adults will also regain their independence. 

Improved confidence and greater mobility mean the elderly adult is less likely to be re-hospitalized due to re-injury or have a relapse of a health condition. Without worrying as much about falls or accidents, your loved one will feel more comfortable moving around on their own.

Receiving Compassionate, Professional Support.

With a physical therapist that comes to the home, your loved one will benefit from the support of a compassionate, professionally trained therapist. 

Since PT on demand is private and more personalized, the therapist gets to know your loved one on a more personal level, thus increasing the likelihood of compliance and reducing the time to achieve health and movement outcomes.

Can All Older Adults Benefit from a Physical Therapist Home Service?

In general, our bodies become more rigid and less flexible as we age. Movements that used to be easy can be more difficult and challenging. Even if an older adult doesn’t have a serious need for PT, it can still be helpful in maintaining their active lifestyle. 

However, there are some groups of elderly adults who can especially benefit from in-home physical therapy:

• Those with a medical condition or mobility limitation that prevents them from leaving home
• Individuals who don’t have reliable transportation to a traditional PT clinic
• Seniors who are unable or uncomfortable driving
• Those who desire the privacy and convenience of an in-home physical therapist service
• Prefer the personalized attention of a physical therapist that comes to your home

Your physician or care team can help you determine if having a physical therapist that comes to the home is right for your elderly loved one or an older adult in your care.

Physical Therapist Home Services for Elderly Adults in Charlottesville and Richmond, VA

In-home PT is a great resource for elderly adults looking to improve their mobility or recover from an injury or surgery. It offers plenty of benefits for seniors, like:

• Convenience
• Personalized attention
• Increased confidence moving around
• Regaining independence
• Receiving compassionate, professional care

Are you looking for the best in-home physical therapy services for elderly adults in the Richmond or Charlottesville areas? Commonwise Home Care is here for you.

At Commonwise Home Care, we provide older adults with exceptional in-home physical therapy services. Our team of professional, licensed, and experienced physical therapists provide tailored in-home physical therapy on demand to help your loved one become more:

• Mobile
• Confident
• Independent
• Satisfied

Commonwise physical therapists create a personalized care plan customized to your movement needs in and around your home.

Whether your loved one is recovering from an injury or simply wants to enhance their strength and stamina to move with greater ease, our physical therapy team is here to serve you, when you need them, and where you need them most: at your home.

Contact us today to get started with the best in-home physical therapist on demand for elderly adults in your area.

With close to 6 million elderly adults living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, many adult children or family caregivers are tasked with finding the best level of care for their loved ones. Choosing the right mix of care, especially when you’re transitioning your loved one into a nursing home, can be overwhelming. 

But there’s a simple solution to ease some of those fears: hiring an extra care provider specializing in caring for elderly adults with dementia. Having an extra care provider for someone with dementia living in a nursing home has many benefits. 

In this article, we’re exploring the benefits of additional one-on-one care and answering some common questions, including:

• What is the definition of extra care?
• What is memory care in a nursing home?
• How does independent living with extra care work?
• How much is a memory care provider?
• What are the benefits of extra care providers and assisted memory care in nursing homes? 

Join us as we provide insight into the value of intentional, personal care for elderly adults. 

What Is The Definition Of Extra Care? 

Many elderly adults with dementia need help with daily activities such as cooking, doing laundry, or communicating with loved ones. When an older adult is dealing with memory loss, the condition is typically progressive, meaning the support they need increases over time. Even if they live in a nursing home, elderly adults diagnosed with dementia often need both memory care services and extra care services.  

Extra care providers are caregivers for elderly adults living in nursing homes who require that extra personalized attention. These caregivers supplement the care already provided through the facility. 

Extra Care Services for Dementia

Extra care providers offer services in addition to a nursing home’s standard memory care services. Beyond help with daily tasks, extra care can also include activities that: 

• Target specific cognitive deficits
• Improve social skills
• Address emotional concerns 

In addition, some companies offer care management services. Care Management helps families navigate all the different challenges and decisions that come with a nursing home and having a loved one with dementia.

What Is Memory Care In A Nursing Home?

Memory care services in nursing homes help seniors with age-related memory loss, like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. They focus on helping elderly adults maintain their quality of life, even as their cognitive abilities decline. 

Memory care services in an assisted living facility often include:

• Memory-enhancing activities and exercises
• Mobility assistance
• Medication management
• Incontinence care and toileting
• Feeding and nutrition

In a nursing home, memory care services are often a part of the facility’s therapeutic program designed to improve cognitive skills and socialization. 

So, if a memory care facility is already providing dementia care for someone, why would this patient need additional, extra care services?

Why Seniors with Dementia May Need Extra Care Services

There are two main reasons an elderly adult with dementia might need extra care services while in an assisted memory care facility:

1. Nursing homes are often understaffed, and attendants can’t provide the one-on-one attention most dementia patients need.
2. Since dementia is a progressive condition that worsens in unpredictable ways, an individual’s needs will change as the illness progresses. An extra care provider attends to a senior with dementia in a more personalized way. 

If you’re concerned about either of these situations, hiring an extra care provider is a great choice with many benefits.

The Benefits of Extra Care Providers in Nursing Homes

There are many benefits to having an extra care provider for older adults receiving assisted memory care: 

• Maintaining independence. Having an extra care provider gives an older adult with dementia encouragement and a built-in safety net for maintaining their independence as long as possible. 
• Improved quality of care.  Older adults who experience independent living with extra care receive a higher quality of care since they have a personal care provider. They become unique individuals whose needs are met in the most personalized way: one-on-one with their memory care provider. 
• Familiar support.  As an elderly adult with dementia faces progressive decline in cognitive skills and quality of life, they become more and more dependent on their caretaker. A senior with dementia might have a rotating shift of caretakers in a nursing home. With an extra care provider, the older adult has a stable, familiar caretaker, reducing their stress and anxiety. 
• Confidence in the care given. Hiring an extra care provider for a loved one gives family members confidence in care. The extra care provider becomes an extension of the family, a point person who can keep the family informed about changes in their loved one’s health and the progression of their dementia. This kind of confidence in and communication between the extra care provider and the family is priceless. 

But we get it, you’re already paying the memory care assisted living fee. So, how much extra is a memory care provider?

How Much Is A Memory Care Provider? 

Many families opt to hire an extra care provider for one-on-one memory care in a nursing home. 

A few different factors determine the final out-of-pocket costs for memory care in a nursing home, such as insurance (both health insurance and long-term care insurance), the type of room, and an individual patient’s medical needs. 

When you choose to hire an extra care provider, you typically pay an hourly rate for the number of hours you need. Instead of paying one flat fee for extra care, you simply pay for the hours your loved one is in need of personalized assistance.

Regardless of the price of extra care providers, most families find it’s worth it to ensure their loved one gets the quality care they need. 

Give Your Loved One The Extra Care They Need With Commonwise 

Has your loved one been diagnosed with dementia? Do you feel unsure of what steps you should take next? 

Whether you want your loved one to remain at home as long as possible or want to place them in independent living with extra care service, you want to ensure they receive quality care. 

Hiring a professional extra care provider for an older adult with dementia can provide your loved one with the personalized care they need. An extra care provider in a nursing home also gives you the peace of mind that your loved one is receiving the best care possible. 

Commonwise Home Care offers a variety of in-home care services in Virginia and South Carolina, including memory care and extra care provider services. Our compassionate caregivers help maintain the highest quality of life possible for your elderly loved ones. Whether your loved one wants to age in their home or needs some additional care in a nursing home, we’re ready to serve you and your loved one.

Contact us today to discover how our Commonwise caregivers go the extra mile to coordinate and provide the personalized extra care your loved ones deserve.

Five of the best types of jobs working with the elderly include:

• Speech therapists
• Physical therapists
• Visiting RN
• Professional caregiver
• Patient advocate/care manager

So, which jobs helping seniors in their homes are right for you? 

In this article, we’ll look closer at the traits necessary to secure high-paying jobs with elderly clients, as well as some of the best jobs working with seniors.

There’s never been a better time to apply your skills and pursue careers working with seniors, so let’s look at some in more detail.

What Skills Are Necessary For Careers Working With Elderly Clients?

As aging adults opt for home care over nursing homes, the demand for trained caregivers is on the rise. Organizations looking to fill high-paying geriatric jobs often look for individuals with medical backgrounds and caring, compassionate attitudes.

Some of the various types of jobs working with the elderly require an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in a medical field – such as speech therapy or physical therapy. Others may accept a specialized certification in place of a degree.

Knowing how to work with elderly patients may require additional education and training, especially in registered nursing or geriatric care management.

While some roles do require specific credentials, there are other jobs helping seniors in their homes that don’t require formal certification or a medical background – just strong communication and calm, kind-hearted personalities.

No matter your career path, there are some personal traits and characteristics that are beneficial in careers working with the elderly:

• Compassion: Elderly individuals needing help require empathic and understanding companions who can listen without judgment or bias.
• Organization: Keeping track of medical records, bills, care calendars, and meetings is essential when juggling the needs of multiple clients.
• Eagerness to Learn: Those who can learn quickly and stay on top of the newest advancements in senior care and treatment are well-suited for these roles.
• Problem-Solving: Elderly clients may face unique challenges that require critical thinking, especially when managing challenging behaviors or addressing patient needs.
• Resourcefulness: Because elderly individuals often require various types of help, it’s important to be aware of community resources and referral services, so you always know where to turn for additional support when needed.

Now that you know more about the general skills and qualities needed to work with the elderly, let’s look at some specific jobs catered toward helping seniors in their homes.

5 Types Of Careers Working with Seniors

Though there are many careers with senior citizens to choose from, the following five high-paying geriatric jobs are among the most popular.

1. Speech Therapist

One of the top careers working with senior citizens is as a speech therapist.

Working in speech therapy can be an enriching career, as you help patients regain their ability to communicate and connect with others.

Speech therapists work to improve the lives of their patients by restoring lost functions and reducing frustrations associated with impairments in:

• Speaking
• Language processing
• Voice tone and strength
• Chewing
• Swallowing

As a speech therapist, you have a unique opportunity to help individuals recover from strokes, Alzheimer’s disease, and other life-altering health conditions.

2. Physical Therapist

Physical therapy is another example of the jobs working with seniors in their homes that provide an opportunity for you to use your specialized skills to make a difference.

A physical therapist is responsible for helping elderly patients with physical impairments increase their mobility and independence.

Physical therapists work closely with doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, and other health care providers to help patients decrease pain and restore function.

Physical therapy is one of the top high-paying geriatric jobs, and with the growing need for skilled professionals, the demand to fill these roles is high. However, you will need a bachelor’s and graduate’s degree to become a physical therapist.

3. Visiting RN

Working as a visiting RN is a great way to help seniors live independently with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.

A visiting RN typically works with a company that provides in-home care to older adults.

Visiting RNs are responsible for helping with:

• Administering medications
• Monitoring patients’ conditions and vital signs
• Reporting changes in patients’ health to their primary care provider
• Assessing home safety and environment for infection risks
• Providing education and information on self-care methods and disease management

Visiting RNs bring hope and help to many. Visiting RN careers working with seniors provide a valuable service to patients and families and a rewarding livelihood to the nurses.

4. Professional Caregiver

Another one of the top jobs working with geriatrics also includes being a professional caregiver.

Professional caregivers provide daily hands-on help to clients who require assistance with basic activities such as

• Getting dressed
• Socializing
• Bathing
• Meal prepping
• Eating
• Taking medications
• Transportation to appointments or errands

Professional caregivers are not required to have formal medical training or even certifications. The best professional home care organizations offer comprehensive training on how to work with elderly patients to ensure their caregivers are set up for success from the moment they begin.

Because there are few requirements to become a caregiver, it’s a great job for anyone looking to start a career helping seniors.

5. Patient Advocate/Care Manager

Patient advocates fight to ensure their patients have access to appropriate healthcare services and medications, helping them navigate challenging processes such as insurance claims, billing issues, and more.

A patient advocate will often work with patients who:

• Are facing life-threatening or chronic illnesses
• Need professional care coordination
• Are seeking education and counseling
• Require case management services

Patient advocates can be an invaluable resource in financial aid and reimbursement assistance. They also provide a voice for individuals who may have difficulty speaking up about their healthcare issues or loved ones.

There’s a rising need for male patient advocates for elderly men who would prefer a male advocate in their lives.

Discover Unique Jobs Helping Seniors In Their Homes With Commonwise

As you can see, there are plenty of benefits associated with the top careers working with elderly seniors. From speech and physical therapy to case managers and caregivers, trained elder care professionals are a lifeline for seniors living in their homes.

If you’re wondering how to work with elderly patients or are looking specifically for careers working with seniors in the Charlottesville, Williamsburg, Richmond, or Charleston areas, Commonwise is hiring for a variety of openings.

At Commonwise Home Care, we provide all our caregivers with:

• Comprehensive in-house training
• Great pay and opportunities for raises
• Ongoing training and support

In addition, you don’t need to have any previous experience with caregiving to start working with us. All you need is a valid driver’s license, a working vehicle, and a desire to provide quality care to aging adults.

To learn more about how to pursue rewarding careers with senior citizens, take a look at our open jobs today. Our team of dedicated professionals will equip you with the skills, training, and knowledge needed to succeed in these incredible jobs helping seniors in their homes.

Career opportunities for caregiving offer growth and stability. Jobs related to caregiving are becoming a critical necessity to support an aging population. By 2050, experts estimate close to 28 million people will need some level of caregiving or long-term care assistance.

There are many caretaker jobs to choose from, including:

• Family support manager
• In-home caregiving/caretaking
• Caregiver trainer
• Home health aide

Each of these caregiver pathways has its unique responsibilities, but all roles share one common theme: caring for those who cannot care for themselves alone.

Are you just beginning your search for jobs related to caregiving?

Have you been wondering, “What is the job of a caretaker?”

Read on to learn more about career opportunities for caregiving and the skills you’ll need to succeed.

What Is The Job Of A Caretaker?

Determining which type of caregiver job is right for you starts with understanding the basics of caregiving. So, what is the job of a caretaker?

At its core, a caretaker looks after someone who needs additional assistance in various aspects of life. Their goal is to protect the health and well-being of an individual.  

What Are The Potential Caregiver Pathways?

There are many jobs related to caregiving, and choosing a particular path doesn’t mean you’ll spend your entire career in that role. In fact, through proper training and education, you can continue to grow your career in additional responsibilities, certifications, and salary.

Do You Need A Degree To Be A Caregiver?

The level of education required for a caregiver depends on the exact role. For some, a high school diploma is enough to get started in this rewarding career. Other roles require formal education or certification. If you choose to move up the caregiving career ladder, different caregiver pathways will require different levels of expertise.

Each state also has its own requirements for training and certification, so it’s best to do your research with your local caregiver, elder care, or home health agencies.

Jobs Related To Caregiving

There are many career opportunities for caregiving – and no shortage of openings! 

Here are some of the top caregiver jobs that pay well, along with their desired qualifications.

Family Support Manager

Family support managers assist families and communities by providing services such as:

• Crisis intervention
• Care coordination
• Patient advocacy
• Support for families coping with drastic changes in a loved one’s behavior or declining health
• Referrals for further care or evaluations

Family support managers may work with adult children caring for their senior parents, or younger parents (or even grandparents) caring for a child with special needs.

Employers typically require family support managers to have a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or counseling.

In-Home Caregiving/Caretaking

An in-home caregiver career opportunity is ideal for those who are passionate about making a meaningful and visible difference for seniors.

In-home caretakers have training in and can assist with:

• Personal grooming, bathing, and toileting
• Dressing and feeding
• Incontinence care
• Light exercising, like walking
• Transportation services to doctors or errands
• Basic medication management

If you’re interested in becoming a caregiver, you’ll be happy to know that formal education or certifications aren’t typically required. Instead, the top home care agencies offer personalized training to prepare you for the unique responsibilities and challenges you may have.

Caregiver Trainer

As the population ages, the need for talented caregivers is rising. A caregiver trainer is another great career opportunity to help seniors. Though more indirect than one-on-one caregiving, a caregiver trainer coaches other caretakers on how to best tend to the needs of those who are ill, aging, or have disabilities.

Typically, this job requires at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or counseling. Oftentimes, these roles will also require some level of previous caregiver experience.

Home Health Aide

A home health aide is an excellent option for those who want to provide more health-focused care to seniors. While they can provide support for daily activities, they also assist with:

• Taking vitals
• Administering medications
• Changing bedpans or other toileting needs
• Operate basic medical equipment (with proper training)

Like in-home caretakers, most agencies don’t require home health aides to have a formal education; however, many opt for home health aide certifications for better jobs related to caregiving.

What Are The Benefits Of Caregiver Pathways And Careers?

Aside from the fact that there are many caregiver jobs that pay well, there are many other benefits to becoming a caretaker, including:

• Enjoying a rewarding career helping aging seniors stay independent as long as possible
• Building a resume with compassionate experience and continuous learning
• Creating professional relationships with others who are truly passionate about what they do
• Making connections in your community by caring for those near you

If you’re interested in becoming a caregiver, there’s no time like the present to get started.

Find a Caregiver Career Opportunity with Commonwise

If you’re passionate about helping others, there are many jobs related to caregiving that just might be the perfect fit.

From family support manager and caregiver trainer to in-home caregiver or home health aide, you’ll find many fulfilling caregiver jobs that pay well.

Working as a caretaker is not always easy, but choosing an employer that values its workers can make it much more rewarding. If you’re ready to start a career in caregiving, we can help you.

At Commonwise Home Care, we provide high-quality, compassionate care to seniors and individuals who need extra assistance living life to the fullest. Our caregivers are the best in the industry thanks to their passion, dedication, and extensive Commonwise training. They enjoy flexible schedules and unique opportunities to grow within our company. We also provide direct mentorship and support to our care team, so caregivers never feel isolated despite working individually in our clients’ homes.

Are you ready to help us set a new standard for elderly home care? 

It’s time to discover if we’re the right fit. We invite you to check out our current openings and apply for an exciting caregiver career opportunity today.

Watching someone lose their ability to think clearly or remember things can be devastating, leaving adult children unsure of how to help those who once cared for them.

As with many illnesses, the earlier you identify dementia, the better chance your parent will have of living a longer and more fulfilling life. The sooner you notice signs, the sooner treatment can begin.

If you’ve been wondering:

• How do I know if my mom has dementia?
• What are the signs of dementia in elderly parents
• How to tell if a parent has dementia
• What to do when you suspect dementia
• How to get evaluated for dementia

We have the answers you need. This article will help you spot the early signs of dementia and share tips on how to talk to aging parents about memory loss.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term for any brain disease that causes a decline in mental ability. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Some of the most common symptoms of dementia are:

• Disorientation
• Mood changes
• Memory loss
• Impaired judgment

In addition, there are different types of dementia:

• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia.
• Vascular dementia occurs after a stroke or other brain injury.
• Dementia with Lewy bodies is a type of progressive dementia.
• Frontotemporal dementia is rare and specifically affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

So, you may be asking, how do I know if my mom has dementia? Let’s review the most common signs of dementia in elderly parents. 

Early Signs Of Dementia In Parents

Every person experiences the symptoms of dementia differently; however, certain patterns may indicate dementia. 

Here are a few early signs of dementia in aging parents to be on the lookout for.

1. Unexplained Memory Loss

Unexplained memory loss is often the earliest sign that something is wrong.

You might notice your parents suddenly forgetting where their keys are or what they went upstairs to get. They might be unable to remember friends’ names or appointments and get lost in familiar places.

2. Confusion With Time Or Place

Losing track of time or the day is another common early sign of dementia in elderly parents.

Many people with dementia become confused about what time it is. For example, they may think that it’s still morning when it’s afternoon. Some may also forget where they are, even in familiar places.

3. Unable To Follow A Set of Steps

The early signs of dementia in parents often include being unable to follow a series of steps, such as following a recipe or folding laundry.

As dementia progresses, it may be challenging for your parents to complete everyday activities that were once second nature. Skipping steps or forgetting how to do a common task is a key behavior indicator to watch for when wondering, “Does my mother have dementia?”

4. Loss of Ability To Perform Complex Tasks

People with dementia may have difficulty performing complex tasks such as managing their finances or doing two things simultaneously, like having a conversation over mealtime. Your loved one might also have trouble with movement and balance.

5. Misplacing Things

People with dementia may forget where they put important items, such as their keys or wallets. They may also have trouble keeping track of items when they’re in plain sight.

6. Irrational Fears, Paranoia, and Worries

Anxiety and paranoia are common signs of early dementia. You might notice your parents becoming fixated on certain thoughts, such as believing someone is following them or taking things from them.

7. Mental Confusion

People with dementia can quickly become confused, lost in familiar situations, or find it challenging to navigate short distances. They may also:

• Ask the same questions repeatedly
• Have trouble following conversations
• Experience difficulty performing familiar tasks. 

Mental confusion is also a symptom of other serious conditions, so if the onset is rapid and significant, you’ll want to contact your parents’ doctor right away.

8. Agitation or Aggression

Mood changes are common early signs of dementia. People with Alzheimer’s may become frustrated or agitated at their diminished capabilities as the disease progresses.

There’s also a condition called “sundowning” where individuals with dementia can experience great agitation at the end of the day.

Now that you know how to tell if a parent has dementia, let’s talk about what to do when you suspect dementia in one of your parents.

“I Think My Mother Has Dementia. What Should I Do?”

If you’re looking for advice about what to do when you suspect dementia and how to get a parent tested for dementia, know there are a few routes you can take. As we mentioned earlier, being proactive is key to managing the symptoms and helping your parents live the best life possible.

1. See a Doctor For An Evaluation

Fortunately, there are tests that can indicate the presence of dementia. When you see a parent struggling to remember or having difficulty performing tasks that were once easy, schedule a visit with a doctor or a memory care provider.

A doctor will know how to get a parent tested for dementia and provide guidance on how to talk to aging parents about memory loss.

2. Help Parents Keep Track Of Tasks

If your parent has trouble keeping track of items or following a series of steps, you can help them keep a calendar with all their daily activities, appointments, and deadlines.

It can also be helpful to create a list of steps for them to follow when you give them tasks to complete.

3. Focus On Solving Issues Together

People with early signs of dementia may feel embarrassed or overwhelmed when they can’t perform complex tasks or things that once came naturally.

When you see your parents having trouble completing everyday activities, consider sitting down with them and helping them solve the problem together.

This may be as simple as assisting them in crossing items off a to-do list or reminding them how to perform a task they’re struggling with. Stay patient, calm, and positive. Words of encouragement can go a long way.

4. Create Space for Community

Though you may not realize it, there are many people across the country, and even in your own local area, thinking, “My mom has dementia and I don’t know what to do!”

With many parents and caregivers navigating memory loss, building a community for yourself is key to finding support. These supports groups can provide encouragement and inspiration during times of great distress or unknown.

5. Hire a Professional Caregiver

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. 

Finding a compassionate professional caregiver can ease the burden of family caregiving, especially when a parent exhibits signs of dementia and memory loss. 

Whether your parent needs daily assistance or 24-hour dementia care, specially trained caregivers will:

• Provide an extra set of hands
• Enhance safety and security
• Give peace of mind
• Help keep parents comfortable at home for as long as possible

Hiring an in-home caregiver for your loved done is also a great way to take some of the caregiving burdens off your shoulders.

Dementia in Elderly Parents: Find Hope for Memory Care at Commonwise

Knowing how to tell if a parent has dementia can give you the confidence to approach the symptoms with strength and knowledge. If you’ve been saying, “I think my mother has dementia what should I do?” look for these tell-tale signs:

• Unexplained memory loss
• Confusion with time or place
• Difficulty following a set of steps
• Inability to perform complex tasks
• Misplacing things
• Irrational fears, paranoia, and worries
• Mental confusion
• Agitation or aggression

At Commonwise, we want to encourage you with wisdom and compassion as you support your loved one with age-related memory loss. So, we offer reliable in-home care for elderly loved ones as they age. Our professional caregivers in Virginia and Charleston will help your parents age in place and support you through the process of dealing with dementia in elderly parents.

If you’re ready to give your parents the compassionate care they deserve, contact our team today to schedule a consultation.

When elderly parents become difficult, it can be highly stressful for adult children. Not only do you have to care for your aging parent’s health, but you also deal with the emotions of seeing your parents struggle to maintain their quality of life and independence. 

When adult children become the primary caregivers for their parents, it can quickly go from a pleasant to a tense environment. 

Whether you’re caring for parents in your home or you need help with an aging mother or father, there are several steps you can take to reduce stress and ease the transition. 

In this article, we’re addressing what to do when your elderly parent needs help and lives with you. We’re sharing tips on:

• How to deal with an elderly parent who is demanding
•  What to do when elderly parents become difficult
• Where to turn for support when you’re caring for parents in your home
• What to do with elderly parents when you can’t provide adequate care alone 

Today, we’ll guide you through the process of dealing with aging parents and where to turn when you finally say, “I need help taking care of my elderly parents.” 

“Help! My Mother Lives With Me And I Hate It!“

Dealing with aging parents can be complicated. As parents age, you may naturally transition from the role of child to the primary caregiver in their lives. 

Often, an elderly parent becomes overbearing or demanding in ways that can be stressful for their children. When adult children have their own full-time jobs or children relying on them, it complicates matters even further. Yet, for many older adults, their children are the only people they trust. 

Fortunately, there are ways to ease the tension and set healthy boundaries when you have an elderly parent who is demanding. 

Keep reading to get expert tips regarding caring for parents in your home stress-free.

How to Deal With An Elderly Parent Who Is Demanding 

If you’re the primary caregiver for an elderly parent, there are a few things you can do to help your parent and yourself through the care process. 

Here are five ways to ease the burden of dealing with aging parents in your home.

1. Communicate Your Limits

It may seem obvious, but simply explaining your limits can significantly impact how you engage with your elderly parent in your home. 

Your parent may not always understand how busy you are. By clearly communicating your limits and fixed time commitments (like work), your parent will have better awareness when making their demands or requests. 

Try using positive reinforcement. Let them know you’re happy to help them; however, there are certain times you may be tied up or unavailable. Always give them an alternative for those times. 

2. Set Up A Consistent Daily Schedule 

When learning how to deal with an elderly parent who is demanding, it’s essential to create a consistent daily schedule and routine. 

A daily schedule can help your elderly parents know where you are when you’re not home. It will also help give familiarity and structure to your loved one’s days. 

Routines have tremendous benefits for seniors and family caregivers alike, by:

• Reducing stress for both parent and child
• Making parents feel safe and secure
• Decreasing the anxiety of the unknown for parents
• Helping parents and caregivers feel accomplished 

When creating a schedule for what to do with elderly parents, consider their unique needs.

For example, maybe they tire easily or have increased confusion in the late afternoon hours. Though it may seem obvious, don’t forget to schedule times for relaxing, exercise, and hygiene. Your parents will always feel comfortable and well taken care of, knowing what activities are coming next.

Post the schedule on the refrigerator or somewhere visible, so your parent can reference it throughout the day.

3. Discover Their Interests And Build On Them

If you’re wondering what to do with elderly parents, try asking them. Your parents may be able to entertain themselves more easily than you initially thought, as long as you provide them with the right activities.

Find out what interests them and how they like spending their time. Though they may not be able to do everything to full capacity anymore, creating a modified version will bring your parents joy and purpose. Dealing with elderly parents can also be fun if you take the right approach.

Here are some examples to jog your creativity: 

• Your mother loves to read, so perhaps you help her look through the newspaper each day to find interesting articles about books or authors.
• Your father is handy, so you buy him some tools for a small project at home or introduce him to a popular home improvement show he may like.
• Your mother loves to cook, so perhaps you take her to a senior cooking class or provide her with the task of making a meal or two each week.
• Your parent likes making art, so you buy some canvases and paints or a jewelry-making kit, so they can pursue their passion for art.

Sometimes all it takes is encouraging your parent and getting them started on a hobby or task they enjoy.

4. Get Advice From A Trained Professional

When elderly parents become difficult, it can feel incredibly isolating. Trying to juggle all of your responsibilities and the pressure of helping your parents live their lives to the fullest can feel impossible. It’s ok to say, “I need help taking care of my elderly parents” or “My mother lives with me and I hate it!”  A trained elder care professional knows exactly what to do when your elderly parent needs help to make it all feel more manageable.

If you’re having a challenging time caring for an elderly parent, consider contacting an elderly care expert for support. Many states have support groups and family caregiver trainings to help you feel calmer and more confident about caring for your elderly parents.

If it still feels too much, or you notice your parents’ health and memory declining, it may be time to enlist the help of a compassionate home care professional.

5. Hire A Professionally Trained Caregiver

Dealing with aging parents alone is no easy feat. After caring for parents in your home for any length of time, you may even be telling yourself, “I need to find my mom a home at a senior living facility.”

Before you move an elderly parent to unfamiliar surroundings, know you have options to keep them home and find relief. Often the best thing to do for their quality of life (and yours) is to bring in a professionally trained caregiver who specializes in the elderly care you need. 

There are many benefits to hiring in-home help, including:

• Companionship
• Peace of Mind
•  Independence
• Professional Support
• Physical and mental health

From total patient care to specialty dementia or memory care, a compassionate caregiver will lend a hand, and a heart, when you and your loved one need it most.

Commonwise: Compassionate Caregivers For When Elderly Parents Become Difficult

Navigating what to do when your elderly parent needs help can be a complex process. However, it’s essential to know you don’t have to be alone in caring for parents in your home.

At Commonwise, we serve clients, families, and caregivers with wisdom and compassion during complex and difficult times. Our in-home caregiving services improve the quality of life for your loved ones and help them stay safe and at home, longer. When you need advice on how to deal with an elderly parent who is demanding, and you don’t know where to turn, we’re here for you. Our goal is to bring hope, healing, and comfort to elderly parents and family caregivers across Charlottesville, Richmond, Williamsburg, and Charleston.

contact us today to set up a free consultation if you find yourself crying out, “My mother lives with me and I hate it!” Our compassionate and professional team will walk you through how our services can benefit your elderly parent—no matter how demanding they may be.

Even saying, “I need help caring for my mother,” out loud is an important first step in getting much-needed senior care for mom.

So, if you’re wondering how to find a good caregiver for the elderly and the true benefits of hiring a caregiver for in-home help, you’re in the right place.

There are many benefits to hiring a professional caregiver when elderly parents need help at home. Simply knowing your loved one is safe and comfortable with a trusted one-on-one caregiver will give you immeasurable peace of mind.

For those caring for parents as they age and wondering, “Do I need a caregiver for my parent?” keep reading.  Today, we’re sharing the benefits of hiring a caregiver for in-home help and how to hire elderly care for your elderly loved ones.

5 Benefits to Hiring In-home Care for Mom and Dad

Do you care for an elderly parent and find yourself saying:

•  “I need help caring for my mother”
• “It’s time I start looking for a caregiver for my mom”
• “I need someone else to help with my mother”
•  “I know my parents need help at home”
•  “Who else can I trust with home care for my mother”

These are sentiments shared by many adults caring for their elderly parents. 

According to one survey, almost 85% of baby boomers and generation X adults want their parents to age at home. However, 60% said they had concerns about managing the responsibilities that go along with it.

Are you worried about whether home health care for elderly parents is right for you? 

Here are five major benefits of hiring a caregiver for in-home help with mom and dad.

1. Companionship

One of the biggest benefits of a one-on-one caregiver is the companionship they provide.

Aging often means losing independence and companionship, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Isolation and loneliness aren’t just sad for the elderly, they can be detrimental to their health. Evidence shows that social isolation in the elderly puts them at increased risk for health issues like:

• Dementia
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Suicide

When you hire elderly care, you and your loved one will take comfort in the personalized attention and companionship they receive on a daily basis. 

In-home senior care keeps loved ones healthy and happy in comfortable surroundings for as long as possible.

2. Independence

When you hire experienced senior care for mom or dad, you’ll benefit from a professionally trained caregiver who’s determined to keep your parents living comfortably at home for as long as possible. 

One-on-one caregivers provide the support your parents need to live with dignity and independence as they age by helping with:

• Meal preparation
• Grooming
• Shopping/errands
• Changing or dressing
• Bathing and toileting
• Prepping medications
• Wound care
•  And much more

Domestic home help for the elderly compassionately ensures seniors can stay in their homes without the need to be moved to an assisted living facility.

3. Quality of Life

When parents need help at home it affects the lives of both parents and adult children. 

Adult children often have many responsibilities to juggle, and adding senior care for mom can mean sacrificing other important duties. Families may only have the capacity to provide basic care and companionship, which means continued socialization through outings or activities is no longer possible for aging loved ones.

With home health care for elderly parents, seniors and their families can both live a higher quality of life. Professional caregivers help keep your loved ones’ routines as close to normal as possible, so they can continue living life to the fullest.

4. Peace of Mind

As parents age, keeping them safe is a top priority. 

Did you know that hiring home health care for elderly parents helps reduce the likelihood of falls and other accidents that can endanger seniors?

Caregivers know how to spot potential dangers and eliminate them before anything can happen to your loved one.

When it comes to the health and safety of your loved ones, prevention is key. Beyond in-home accidents, trained caregivers will monitor your loved ones for changes in behavior or comfort level. Should any changes occur, your caregiver can immediately notify your family and medical professionals if necessary.

Hiring a caregiver for in-home help relieves stress and provides peace of mind for families.

5. Support for Families

Being a family caregiver for aging parents, especially those in declining health, can be overwhelming. It’s easy to experience caregiver burnout when you bear the burden of elder care on your own.  

When you hire a one-on-one caregiver, you’ll get the support you need when you need it most. Not only will the weight of care be lifted, but you’ll have another compassionate, professionally trained individual putting the needs of your loved one first.

The aging process is difficult to navigate, and a caregiver can help you through the stages with critical guidance and reassurance.

How To Find A Good Caregiver For The Elderly

The benefits of hiring a caregiver for in-home help are clear:

• Companionship for your loved one
• Continued independence for aging parents
• Increased quality of life
• Peace of mind
• Support for family caregivers

Those who hire senior care for mom and dad one can expect to see a better quality of life for their elderly parents and themselves.

Now that you understand the benefits of hiring a caregiver for in-home help, you may be wondering how to find a reliable one-on-one caregiver to provide quality home care for mom.  

While some adult children may do their own recruitment to hire elderly care, the best way to secure domestic home help for the elderly is to hire an experienced, compassionate home care agency. Whether your loved one is telling you “I need a caregiver!” or you’ve told yourself it’s time I start looking for a caregiver for my mom, don’t waste a second finding the best provider for their wellbeing.

At Commonwise, we’re the leaders in providing loving and compassionate one-on-one caregiving in the Charlottesville, Richmond, Williamsburg, VA or Charleston, SC areas. Whether you need hourly care, overnight care, or full-time care, we know what it takes to provide the independence, companionship, and quality of life your loved ones deserve.

If your parents need help at home, call the caregiver professionals at Commonwise today. Our team is devoted to giving you and your loved ones the hope and care you need.

So, when does someone need memory care? And, what are the signs it’s time for memory care service? 

If you’re wondering about how to know when it is time for in-home memory care, then keep reading.

Today, we’ll share important information about:

• The differences between assisted living and in-home memory care
• When to move from assisted living to memory care
• Transitioning from assisted living to memory care
• Getting support while moving a parent to memory care

Read on to learn more about how to know when memory care is needed.

The Difference Between Assisted Living and In-home Memory Care

Are you a family caregiver wondering how to know when it is time for memory care? 

Before we provide you with the answers, it’s helpful to understand the differences between assisted living and in-home memory care.

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living communities are fee-for-service communities that typically provide residents with support for personal care services like:

• Laundry
• Transportation for outings
• Shopping
• Housekeeping
• Security
• Social activities

Assisted living communities are usually apartment-style housing facilities that promote independent living and programmed activities through on-site amenities like pools and fitness centers.

Employees at assisted living communities are not typically equipped to handle medical or memory care services; instead, they offer custodial or basic care for those who don’t need 24-hour medical supervision. And if you do want your loved one to receive more advanced memory care, there’s usually an extra monthly fee.

In addition, there’s usually a poor ratio of staff to residents (around 12:1) at assisted living facilities.

In contrast, in-home memory care offers a much more personalized and compassionate approach.

In-home Memory Care

Unlike assisted living, in-home memory care involves specialized care, attention, and services for managing behaviors often associated with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, including:

• Wandering
• Anxiety and confusion
• Sundowning (increased confusion in the late afternoon or evening)
• Disruptive or aggressive behavior
• Lack of energy or mobility

In-home memory care typically involves a dedicated professional caregiver who comes to the client’s home for hourly care, overnight care, or full-time care. Reliable home health care agencies train caregivers to help clients maintain a quality life in comforting surroundings with access to friends and family members.

Therefore, there are many benefits of moving a parent to memory care at home vs. keeping them in an assisted living facility.

The Benefits of In-Home Memory Care

Many people are reluctant to give up their independence, but the benefits of specialized care for aging adults with deteriorating memories are undeniable.

 Some of these benefits include:

• Remaining in familiar surroundings
• Staying near family members and friends
• Retaining memories
• Feeling happier and healthier

In addition, for those who need 24-hour supervision, in-home memory care can provide peace of mind that a loved one is well taken care of and protected from safety hazards.

When To Move From Assisted Living To Memory Care: 5 Signs It’s Time For Memory Care

So, when does someone need memory care? 

The choice of transitioning from assisted living to memory care may feel overwhelming. Here are a few key signs it’s time for memory care.

1. Dangerous Habits While Living Alone That Aren’t Improving

When a loved one exhibits dangerous behaviors, such as leaving the stove on or not taking their medication regularly, it can be difficult for family members to ensure their safety.

In 2019 alone, falls and other injuries accounted for nearly 34,000 deaths in those with dementia. Family members must ensure their loved one isn’t putting themselves at risk.

If the behavior doesn’t improve over time, in-home memory care can help prevent injury while maintaining a loved one’s independence.

2. Decreased Engagement With Friends And Community Activities

Another way to know when it is time for memory care is decreased engagement with friends and community activities.

When dementia or Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it can become difficult for a loved one to remember the date, time, or location of events they previously enjoyed. Even if seniors want to remain social, limitations from the disease can make it difficult to participate fully in activities.

Loved ones may become lonely or depressed due to a lack of socialization. A compassionate caregiver provides much-needed encouragement and support. They can also help your loved one remember dates/times of events and safely drive them to/from these engagements.

3. Increased Aggressive Behaviors That Are Difficult To Manage

As memory declines, aggression and anxiety typically increase. When behaviors become too difficult to manage alone, family members should consider in-home memory care with a professional caregiver.

Memory care providers train their caregivers to recognize difficult behaviors and handle them well. In-home memory care may prevent the escalation of these behaviors, which can put both the loved one and family members at ease.

4. Limited Ability to Provide Proper Care

For some, moving a parent to memory care is a matter of recognizing that family members can no longer manage their loved one’s care alone.

When a loved one’s disease has progressed to the point that family members can’t effectively offer proper care, memory care can be a safe and more ideal alternative to institutionalized care.

5.  Declining Caregiver Health or Mental Well-Being

Watching a loved one struggle with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can take a toll on a caregiver’s mental, physical, and emotional state.

One of the most significant benefits of in-home care is the flexibility and support it provides loved ones. Family members can choose the appropriate level and form of care for their family and adjust it as needed.

An in-home memory care provider will ensure the quality of care to your loved one while removing your caregiver stress.

Make the Transition to In-home Memory Care with Commonwise

When it is time for memory care, families may feel apprehensive or overwhelmed with the unknown. However, when family members recognize the benefits of memory care, they’ll feel confident they’re doing what’s best for their loved ones.

Knowing the signs it’s time for memory care can help family members prepare for the transition before anxiety or guilt make the situation more complicated.

If you’re looking for immediate assistance with care, contact our team at Commonwise Home Care. 

Our team of experts can provide in-home memory care for your loved ones in Charleston, SC, Richmond, VA, and beyond – often within 24-48 hours’ notice. Our trained and certified caregivers can help you with many memory care tasks like:

• Bathing, grooming, and toileting
• Transferring from bed to chair
• Meal planning and preparation
• Medication reminders
• Providing companionship and activities

We know that discovering when to move from assisted living to memory care can be a challenging decision, and we’re here to change that.

We can also provide dementia caregivers to loved ones who are in an assisted living facility. Our memory care is often a great way to supplement the care your loved one is already receiving at their facility.

Contact us today to learn more about the Commonwise difference regarding memory care for a loved one.

If you’re looking for a job that’s focused on helping others and provides you with a good long-term career path, then home care employment could be right for you.

Home care companies are in desperate need of caregivers, so elderly care jobs are in abundance. In addition, many in-home care jobs provide full-time caregivers with excellent pay and benefits. 

Are you ready to learn more about caregiver jobs hiring in Virginia and South Carolina?

In this article, we’re sharing insider information regarding caregiver positions. As you read, you’ll gain a deeper understanding about:

• Why you should consider caregiver job opportunities
• What roles and responsibilities caregiver jobs entail
• How to fill out an in-home caregiver application today

Join us and satisfy your search for “caregiver jobs hiring near me.” 

The Top 3 Benefits of Caregiver Jobs

The “why” behind doing something is often more important than the “what” or “how”. 

So, before we share with you what caregivers do and how to apply for a caregiver job, here are three reasons to consider home care employment options.

1. You Get to Help Others

Caregiving is an incredibly rewarding career, especially for those who have a compassionate heart and like to help others improve their quality of life.

As a caregiver, you’ll work with elderly adults and help them maintain independence in their homes. Your training will teach you how to assist aging seniors with everyday tasks so they can live the fullest life possible.

In addition, you’ll be providing family members of elderly adults with:

• Respite from caregiving duties
• Peace of mind that their loved ones are getting good care

So not only do you get to assist seniors, but you also get to help their family members.

2. You Get Good Pay and Perks

A second reason to consider open caregiver positions is that they often come with good pay and valuable perks.

For example, Commonwise Home Care provides its caregivers with industry-leading wages starting at $15/hour, as well as:

• Paid-time off
• Healthcare for full-time staff
• Generous referral bonuses

In addition, caregiving offers scheduling flexibility. If you can only work nights or weekends, that’s totally fine. Or, perhaps you only want to work eight hours a week—you can do that, too.

Ultimately, in-home care jobs provide good pay, beneficial perks, and flexibility.

3. You Get Long-term Job Security

Lastly, elderly care jobs come with job stability and long-term security.

As the caregiver shortage continues and the number of elderly Americans continues to grow, the number of caregivers will also need to increase. Researchers expect that there will be 71 million people aged 65+ by the year 2030. Many of these seniors will need in-home help from someone outside their family.

In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of home health and personal care aides will increase by 33% over the next ten years.

The bottom line is that caregivers are and will continue to be in high demand, making home care employment a great long-term option.

Now that you know more about why to consider caregiver opportunities, let’s look at the roles and responsibilities of a caregiver.

Roles and Responsibilities in Elderly Care Jobs

We already mentioned a little earlier in this post that elder care professionals aid elderly adults with everyday life tasks. But what does that look like exactly?

Some aging seniors will simply need companionship services, which may include help with:

• Medication reminders
• Housework and laundry
• Transportation to/from events or appointments
• Mep prep
• Bill pay

At other times, you may work with aging adults who require more personal hands-on assistance with tasks like:

• Transfers and ambulation
• Bathing and personal hygiene
• Toileting and incontinence support
• Dressing and grooming
• Feeding

There are also caregiver positions that will train you to help individuals with dementia or other specialized care needs. 

Ultimately, your roles and responsibilities will vary depending on the levels of care a client needs. But regardless of the needs of your clients, your home care agency should give you all the necessary training and support you need to provide quality care to elderly adults.

With roles and responsibilities out of the way, it’s time to answer the question you came here for, “How do I apply for caregiver jobs hiring near me?”

How to Apply for a Caregiver Job

Applying for caregiver jobs in your area or in other states is often a simple and straightforward process. 

You can search online for “in-home care jobs near me in Richmond, VA” or go to online sites, like Indeed.com or Care.com and search for jobs in your area.

However, the best place to find and fill out an in-home caregiver application is directly through an in-home care agency. 

Not all agencies are equal or offer the same pay and benefits. Going directly through an agency allows you to do some research on the company first to decide if they:

• Pay well
• Offer in-house training
• Provide ongoing training and support

These are three items that characterize the best home care agencies to work for—you don’t want to settle for anything but the best.

Once you find an agency that meets the above criteria, you can navigate to their careers page and apply for their open caregiver jobs.

Most care companies only require that applicants have a:

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license
• Working vehicle

Having previous caregiving experience can be helpful, but it’s often not necessary.

After completing the application, you’ll simply wait to hear back from the agency and can start preparing for your interview.

So, are you ready to start applying to the best in-home care jobs in Virginia and South Carolina?

Help-Wanted: In-home Care Jobs in Virginia and South Carolina Today

The home care industry offers great career opportunities for those looking for a lucrative, rewarding career. Elderly care jobs provide individuals with the ability:

• To help others
• Receive good pay and perks
• To start a stable, secure job

As an in-home caregiver, you’ll aid aging adults with daily life tasks so they can age comfortably in their own homes. Some of your roles and responsibilities may include:

• Helping around the house
• Driving clients to/from appointments
• Bathing, dressing, or grooming clients
• Aiding in dementia or memory care

However, the exact care you’ll provide to each client will depend on their specific care needs.

If you’re excited about home care employment and want to work for an agency that values its caregivers, Commonwise Home Care is the place for you.

At Commonwise Home Care, we have caregiver positions in Richmond, Charlottesville, and Williamsburg, VA, and Charleston, SC. We also know how valuable caregivers are, so we ensure you’re well taken care of with:

• A living wage and opportunities for pay increases
• The best caregiver training program
• Ongoing training and support from experienced elder care professionals

We have an abundance of caregiver jobs open and invite you to apply.

Fill out an in-home caregiver application today to get started down your new career path.

Thinking through and implementing elderly fall prevention strategies with your loved ones is incredibly valuable, as the CDC reports that:

• One out of four elderly people aged 65+ experiences a fall
• Falling once doubles your chances of falling again
• One out of every five falls causes a serious injury, like a broken bone or head injury
• More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling

Fortunately, there are many great fall prevention techniques and safety tips to prevent falls at home or out in public.

If you’re interested in learning more about fall prevention for seniors, keep reading.

In this article, we’re sharing our top fall prevention tips so that you can know how to avoid falls in the elderly. With these practical fall prevention guidelines, you can help your elderly parents retain their confidence moving around.

Continue scrolling to learn the best ways to prevent falls in the elderly. 

How to Reduce Falls in the Elderly: 5 Fall Prevention Tips

As we age, our mobility and coordination can decrease, leading to an increased risk of falling. For elderly adults, this can bring about fear and anxiety with moving around the home or out in public. It can also signal a loss of independence. 

However, there are ways to prevent falls in the elderly and help them get back on their feet with confidence. It may require some fall prevention interventions, but making some small changes can go a long way.

If you’re wondering how to reduce falls in the elderly, here are five fall prevention strategies you can implement with your aging parents.

1. Clear the House of Tripping Hazards

It’s important to ensure your parents’ place of residence is safe since 60% of falls occur in the home.

One of the best fall prevention tips is to clean the house and clear it of clutter and tripping hazards. Some things to look for include:

• Carpet or throw rugs that stick up
• Uneven flooring
• Large piles of papers, clothes, etc. on the floor
• Rugs or mats that slide easily
• Objects in the middle of common walkways

Making sure that hallways, living spaces, and main walkways are clear is a great initial step toward fall mitigation in the home. 

2. Safety-proof Stairs and the Bathroom

Two other areas of the home to safety proof are the stairs and the bathroom.

Here’s a more in-depth look at fall prevention interventions for the stairs and bathroom.

Stairs Fall Prevention Tips

Falling down stairs or tripping on the way up can be hazardous for anyone, let alone elderly adults.

When it comes to fall prevention techniques involving the stairs, you’ll want to consider:

• Installing or tightening railings
• Putting non-slip strips on indoor stairs
• Fixing carpet on indoor stairs if the carpet is raised or uneven
• Ensuring outdoor stairs are even and have railings

Alternatively, you can try to help your parents avoid stairs altogether. For example, creating a first-floor bedroom could mean they don’t have to climb the stairs regularly.

Bathroom Fall Prevention Strategies

Fall prevention for seniors also extends into the bathroom. 

Getting in and out of the tub/shower can be challenging, so you’ll want to install railings or put in a walk-in tub/shower. Once in the tub/shower, it’s good to consider putting down non-slip strips.

It’s also important to think about the bathroom floor, since it can get wet and become a slipping hazard. 

Any way you can prevent hazards in the bathroom is a win for you and your parents.

3. Wear Proper Footwear

Another one of our top safety tips to prevent falls at home and in public is to wear proper footwear.

You’ll want to encourage your parents to stay away from:

• High heels
• Floppy slippers or sandals
• Shoes with slick soles

In addition, walking around the house in only socks can be a fall risk, especially on hardwood floors.

Instead, your parents should invest in shoes that:

• Fit properly
• Offer good support
• Have non-slip soles
• Can be worn inside and outside of the home

Choosing sensible footwear can greatly decrease your loved ones’ risk of falling. 

4. Use an Assistive Walking Device

Unsure how to reduce falls in the elderly who can’t walk independently?

If one or both of your parents has trouble walking alone, providing them with an assistive device could be the answer. Canes and walkers provide extra stability for elderly adults and give them the ability to get around on their own.

Your parents may show hesitation about using an assistive device at first. So, it can be helpful to explain to them how an assistive device will increase their independence and decrease their fall risk.

Additionally, learning to walk with a cane or walker can be intimidating. Fortunately, there are physical therapists who can come to their homes and help them learn how to walk with an assistive device.

In addition to helping seniors learn to walk with a cane, an in-home physical therapist can aid in fall mitigation in other ways.

5. Schedule In-home Physical Therapy

As a senior’s muscles and bones weaken, their fall risk increases. Therefore, one of the best elderly fall prevention strategies is to regain strength and mobility through physical therapy.

In-home physical therapy provides your loved one with one-on-one assistance from a professional physical therapist. With physical therapy at home, the physical therapist will:

• Come directly to your parents’ home
• Assess their situation and create a personalized care plan
• Walk them through exercises to increase strength and mobility

By working with a private physical therapist, your parents will decrease their risk of falling and increase their confidence moving around.

In addition to being one of the best fall prevention interventions for elderly adults, in-home physical therapy is also a great option for any senior who’s recovering from a surgery, injury, or stroke. 

Expert Help with Fall Prevention for Seniors

Falling is a risk for anyone, but it becomes more likely as we age. Fortunately, there are many fall prevention techniques to keep seniors safe inside and outside the home.

Five of the best fall prevention strategies to reduce the risk of a fall include:

• Clearing the house of tripping hazards
• Safety-proofing the stairs and bathroom
• Wearing proper footwear
• Using an assistive walking device
• Scheduling in-home physical therapy

Now that you know how to reduce falls in the elderly, you can implement some of these fall prevention tips and help your aging parents move around more safely.

And if you’re interested in getting your parents an in-home physical therapist, we’re here for you.

At Commonwise Home Care, we’re dedicated to helping elderly adults live independently at home. We offer a comprehensive list of elder care services, including in-home physical therapy. Our trained physical therapists enter your parents’ home, walk them through exercises, and help them regain strength and mobility. Whether your loved ones need help learning to walk with a cane or are recovering from surgery, our therapists can provide professional assistance throughout the process.

Contact us today to learn more about how in-home physical therapy can aid in fall prevention for seniors.