One of the biggest hurdles you can face when helping a loved one is resistance to care. How can you help someone who doesn’t want help? By keeping them involved in decisions and explaining the benefits of home care, you may be able to help your loved one feel more comfortable about accepting the help they need. What is behind … Read More
Helping People with ALS Communicate
Many ALS patients have stated that losing the ability to speak is the worst part of the disease. The power of speech is something most of us take for granted, even though it is a crucially important tool that keeps us connected with others. In the early stages of ALS, some patients may begin to lose their speech partially. In … Read More
What is Long-Distance Caregiving
When a loved one needs care and you are far away, there are still many things you can do to help with their care from a distance. Coordinate services – arranging for in-home care and household help. Manage finances, medical bills and records. Provide support to a primary caregiver. To be effective as a long-distance caregiver Have a family meeting. … Read More
June is ALS Awareness Month
In Canada, June is ALS month. Local groups and individuals take part in a wide range of activities aimed at raising awareness of ALS in their communities. One of the most popular events is Walk for ALS. WALK for ALS is a fun, family friendly event that occurs across the country each year in more than 84 communities. These walks … Read More
Detecting and Preventing Malnutrition in Seniors
Malnutrition is a serious health problem for seniors, and is more common than you’d think. Learn the signs and causes of malnutrition and take steps to ensure the seniors in your life are eating a balanced, healthy diet. Problems caused by malnutrition Malnutrition in seniors can cause serious health problems, such as: A weakened immune system, making them prone to … Read More
When Should a Person with Dementia Stop Driving?
Driving is a powerful symbol of independence and adulthood. We all know that the concentration and quick reaction times required for safe driving can gradually decline with age. For people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, this decline is sped up dramatically. If you are caring for a parent or loved one who is suffering from dementia, they … Read More
How To Communicate With a Person With Dementia
Trying to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging. Communication skills are gradually eroded by dementia, so their behavior and words can become difficult to understand. They will also have difficulty understanding your actions and your words. This combination creates misunderstandings and can cause tempers to rise on both sides. Knowing what to expect and learning … Read More
Alzheimer’s and Day-to-Day Activities
Alzheimer’s disease can make ordinary, day-to-day activities challenging. Here are some tips to make daily tasks easier for the patient, the caregivers and the family. Dressing Dementia can make getting dressed a very frustrating experience. Make it part of a routine. Help the person with Alzheimer’s to get dressed at the same time every morning. Don’t offer too many choices. … Read More
Compassionate Palliative Care and Personal Support
It’s not easy to lose a loved one, and the lives of the bereaved are impacted in many ways. It is essential for them to heal after their loss. Families are often shaken by being involved at the end-of-life care of a loved one. Health care professionals can provide the best palliative care by understanding the emotional experiences of family members and offering the most support possible.
Home Care For ALS Patients in Ottawa
ALS – Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord affecting muscle function. ALS is characterized by progressive weakness, respiratory compromise and muscle atrophy. An ALS diagnosis can be overwhelming for both the patient and their family. Choice Homecare Ottawa can help. If you … Read More